Experts have noted a 25% rise in mental health issues among children, particularly anxiety, depression, and stress. This surge is linked to factors like social media, global instability, and familial cultural pressures.
At the second Arab Child Summit at Expo, Dr. Kennette Thigpen, Chief Clinical Officer at Workplace Options, discussed the effects of digital overload and identity struggles. “Children are dealing with self-esteem issues, navigating cultural traditions, and facing digital influences like cyberbullying,” she stated.
Family Stress Impact on Children
Dr. Thigpen emphasized the importance of family wellbeing on children’s mental health. “When families are stressed, children feel it. They pick up on parents’ tone, breathing, words, and body language,” she remarked.
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Unexpressed emotions in children often lead to physical or behavioral symptoms. “Physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, or stomachaches, and even sleep issues are among the first signs,” she noted.
Behavioral shifts may also occur, leaving parents puzzled by their child’s irritability, withdrawal, or tantrums.
Some children aim for perfection to shield their parents from stress. “It’s crucial to teach children how to process their feelings to promote healing,” Dr. Thigpen stressed.
Cultural and Parental Influence
Cultural silence norms can hinder children from seeking assistance. Marianne Khlat, a Clinical Psychologist and Pediatric Care Case Manager at Workplace Options, highlighted the necessity of a safe emotional environment. “It begins with parents. Children imitate. If they see parents solving problems through silence, assuming strength, they may do likewise. Thus, parents need to model openness,” she explained.
By demonstrating healthy communication, parents encourage their children to express worries and fears. “Parents can learn strategies to provide a safe space for their child, ensuring they always have a safety net, even when apart,” she added.
Importance of Early Intervention
Experts underline that early intervention can avert long-term mental health problems. Over half of children’s mental illness cases manifest before age fourteen. Providing necessary care within this timeframe is crucial. The focus is on prevention, with the family playing a vital role in intervention plans, especially early support.
The Arab Child Summit serves as a significant regional platform for Arab identity, family, and education empowerment.
The 2025 summit offers over 40 sessions, with more than 900 participants, featuring leading Arab figures in childhood, education, technology, media, and cultural identity.
