Emotional health is a fundamental part of a child’s overall health and well-being. Emotional health relates to social and emotional competencies. It is a collection of skills which can be developed and worked on from childhood throughout your life. It starts from how your child learns to manage or handle adversities and stress they experience within the first few years of life. A child with well-developed emotional and social skills is inclined to be more self-confident, trusting, intellectually inquisitive, empathic, capable of relating well to others, and has greater potential to accomplish more in life. Understanding your child’s emotions can be complicated, counseling can help.

The Image of an Emotionally Healthy Child

Being emotionally healthy does not necessarily mean a child is going to be happy at all times. It can mean having the power to be in control of their emotions, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Although an emotionally healthy child can still experience overwhelming and painful emotions, they often possess a good set of emotional skills to navigate life’s challenges. They are better able to feel good about themselves and maintain good relationships with others.

A child who is emotionally healthy can recognize and communicate their emotions in an age appropriate way. This happens when emotions felt are successfully managed by regulating the physical and behavioral reactions in such a way that promotes wellness and constructive relationships. Even when life throws a curveball, an emotionally healthy child can still be compassionate and empathic, while caring for themselves (most of the time). Their flexibility and positive mindset allow them to approach problems or conflicts in their lives without feeling overwhelmed.

Supporting Healthy Emotional Development

If the above sounds like a tall order, there’s a reason for that! No one demonstrates emotionally healthy behavior ALL the time. The goal is to be able to handle emotions and challenges well MOST of the time. This can be difficult for anyone to do, particularly children. Counseling can help.

When you find the right child therapist, you and your child can learn healthy coping skills to improve the way your child functions and even improve your relationship with each other!

Carolina Counseling Services in Durham, NC contracts with skilled child therapists. Providers are in network with most major insurances including Aetna, Aetna State Health Plan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield and many more. Online appointments are available, call now all now to get started!

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Jaime Johnson Fitzpatrick LCMHCS, LCAS is one of the Owners and Vice Presidents of Carolina Counseling Services. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in the State of North Carolina as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in State of New York. Jaime is also certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and utilizes various other approaches in her practice.