Q&A: Talking to Kids About Mental Health, Processing Current Events, and More

In this Q&A episode of *Thriving Kids*, Dr. Dave Anderson answers listener questions inspired by last week’s conversation with Dr. Alfiee about youth mental health, community care, and what it really means to help young people thrive. Dr. Dave discusses how parents can talk with kids about mental health without making them feel like something is “wrong” with them, how to help children process stressful news and current events, and how families can think about social media in a balanced way. He also explores the mental health needs of marginalized kids, how to reduce stigma around therapy — especially for boys and young men — and why community support can make parenting feel less isolating.   In this episode, Dr. Dave covers: - What to do when kids are stressed by politics, current events, or frightening news - How to balance concerns about social media with the belonging some kids find online - What parents should understand about the mental health needs of marginalized kids - How to reduce stigma around therapy, anxiety, depression, and asking for help - Why boys and young men may need extra support talking about emotions - Realistic ways to build community around parenting and caregiving - What parents can do while waiting for therapy or additional support Further Reading Helping Children Cope After a Traumatic Event Helping Children Cope With Frightening News Mental Health Challenges of LGBTQ+ Kids Mental Health Support for Black Families Meeting the Mental Health Needs of Black Adolescent Boys What to Do (and Not Do) When Children Are Anxious Video Library Family Resource Center