Effective communication is fundamental to fostering a strong parent-child relationship. During a recent discussion with Dr. Chung Trinh, a PayGround customer and CEO of Lighthouse Psychiatry, we discovered the crucial role of creating an environment where children can freely express their emotions and thoughts for their emotional and mental well-being.

Dr. Trinh and his team at Lighthouse Psychiatry are making remarkable strides in the mental health field, especially with school-aged children. Continue reading and watch the video interview to learn about their significant impact on the community and to find valuable insights on initiating conversations with kids about mental health.

Why Communication Matters

Dr. Trinh points out that the more parents talk with their kids, the easier it becomes for kids to share their thoughts and feelings. This open dialogue not only strengthens the parent-child bond but also contributes to a healthier relationship overall. When kids feel heard and validated, they become more confident in handling their emotions and challenges. The goal is to methodically reduce judgment of the child’s feels and thoughts.

Helping Kids Handle School Stress

With the new school year kicking off, it’s important for parents to recognize the stresses and pressures their kids might face. Dr. Trinh suggests that parents focus on being present rather than jumping in to solve their kids’ problems immediately. By simply acknowledging the child’s experiences and feelings, parents can provide great support, helping the child manage stress on their own terms. If the parent comes up with the solutions, they own the solutions whether or not the child embraces. If the child comes up with the solutions, they take ownership of the outcome. This process will support the child’s ability to gain greater confidence in themselves.

Building Resilience Together

Despite the challenges, kids are incredibly resilient. Dr. Trinh notes that problems arise when kids feel ignored or unacknowledged. Embracing a non-judgmental shared discussion of fears and concerns openly can create a strong and healthy connection and understanding. This shared bond can lead to collaborative problem-solving where both parent and child feel aligned and supportive of each other. It is equally important to be heard and to participate in active listening.

Partnering with the Community

Lighthouse Psychiatry is actively collaborating with the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) to bring mental health resources directly into the school environment. This partnership focuses on integrating mental health education into the school ecosystem, providing direct psychotherapy and psychoeducation for students, teachers, and parents on topics such as stress management, coping strategies, and fostering emotional intelligence. By creating a supportive network within the schools, Dr. Trinh, his team, and the leadership at CUSD aim to ensure that children have the tools and resources they need to navigate their emotional landscapes effectively.

In addition to their work within the school district, Lighthouse Psychiatry is deeply engaged with the local community. They organize community outreach programs to raise awareness about mental health issues and reduce the stigma surrounding them. These programs include open forums, mental health fairs, and collaborative events with other local organizations to educate the public and provide access to valuable resources.

By working closely with both the school district and the broader community, Lighthouse Psychiatry is fostering a holistic approach to mental well-being. This initiative not only supports students in their daily lives but also helps to cultivate a community that prioritizes mental well-being, making it a fundamental part of the educational experience. Through these collaborative efforts, they aim to create a more empathetic, informed, and supportive environment for everyone involved.

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Dr. Trinh emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations about mental health. By talking about these issues in a positive, non-judgmental way, parents can help remove the stigma around mental health, making it easier for everyone to seek the help they need. This holistic approach to family communication creates a nurturing environment where kids can thrive emotionally and mentally.

Ultimately, the conversation underscores the vital importance of parents maintaining open and empathetic communication with their children. By staying present and acknowledging their child’s experiences, parents can cultivate a supportive and resilient relationship that empowers them to face life’s challenges together.

Check out the complete interview in the video linked above.