Experts have called for the adoption of a nationally coordinated program to foster the mental health development of children.
They said that identifying mental health-related issues in children and bringing them under the necessary services can be primarily facilitated by parents and guardians. For this, it is crucial to make them aware, encouraged, and literate about mental health. If possible, they will be able to identify the obstacles in children's mental development, recognize mental health issues, and act accordingly, and seek help from counselors and doctors if needed.
The media and communication development organization "Somsoti" organized the national seminar on the role of parents in the development of children's mental health on Saturday at the conference hall of Bangladesh Shishu Academy with the cooperation of the US-based charity organization Humanity Beyond Barriers.
During the seminar, Dr ABM Abdullah, an emeritus professor and Ekushey Padak winner, said: "Though the development of mental health is essential for the healthy, natural, and complete development of children, it is not getting enough attention in all quarters. Hence, policy-making and program initiatives are necessary. Such programs are needed for children in rural areas along with urban areas."
He further said: "Guardians often unnecessarily pressure children and thrust them into competition. Such practices have a negative impact on children and can cause mental harm."
He urged parents and guardians to behave tolerantly towards children.
Anjir Liton, director general of Bangladesh Shishu Academy, said: "A national framework needs to be established by the government to develop children's mental health. Bangladesh Shishu Academy will undertake initiatives related to this. The academy will also expand its guardian literacy programs."
He stressed the importance of increasing opportunities for children to participate in sports and other creative activities for their mental development.
Abu Alam Shahid Khan, former senior secretary and media personality, said: "Just as there is a need for emphasis at the family level, it is also crucial to monitor the mental health of students from schools and colleges. Increasing awareness in this regard is absolutely necessary."
According to the National Mental Health Survey 2018-19 conducted by the Bangladesh National Institute of Mental Health under the supervision of the World Health Organization, 16.8% of the population in Bangladesh is suffering from mild to severe mental health issues. The survey also found that 14% of children aged 7 to 17 have mental health problems, and 95% of them do not receive any kind of counseling or medical treatment. Guardians are also unable to identify these mental health issues, which exacerbates the problem.
The seminar was attended by mental health specialists, representatives of development organizations, media personalities, teachers, guardians, and students.
"Somsoti" is managing a project to increase guardians' awareness on mental health to promote healthy development of children," aimed at reducing discrimination and stigma.
Under this project, 400 guardians from 10 schools in Dhaka, Barguna, and Tangail have been provided with awareness training on children's mental health literacy.