Mental health
Information for parents and other caregivers
Life is full of challenges. Sometimes it can be an emotional roller coaster. Young or old: we all experience highs and lows. The important thing is to not lose our way, to recognize problems early on and get help if necessary – for our children, but also for ourselves.
Info at a glance
Every child has the right to good health. The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being.” In other words, it’s about our overall well-being. When children have worries or negative feelings, they should be taken just as seriously as when they hurt their arm.
Show your children that you care for them and that you take their concerns seriously. Maybe you don’t have all the answers, but let your children know that you’re there for them and that you’ll find a solution together.
Are you noticing changes in your child’s behavior or mood? It could simply be a part of growing up. But if these changes persist for weeks and negatively affect your child’s life, it’s important to seek professional help.
Counseling and support for parents and other caregivers
Children thrive in healthy, loving environments. When they have problems, they need your support. To be able to take care of your children, you need to take care of yourself, too. You’re allowed to ask for help if you need it.
The Heart2Heart helpline is there 24 hours a day for people who need a supportive conversation:
If you have questions on parenting or are experiencing conflicts or crises in your family, contact Pro Juventute’s parent counseling service (in German):
If you find yourself in an emergency situation, dial 144 (medical emergencies) or 117 (police) immediately.
Mental health tips
Does your family have its ups and downs? That’s totally normal. It’s important that you always show your children that you love them and let them know that you’ll be there for them when times are tough. Here you’ll find some practical and helpful tips.
What’s the state of young people’s mental health?
A UNICEF study surveyed over a thousand young people in Switzerland and Liechtenstein between the ages of 14 and 19 on their mental health. The findings are alarming.
9 in 10
4 in 10
3 in 10
1 in 10
More information
You’ll find more information on mental health on the following websites:
- Pro Mente Sana
- Heart2Heart
- Pro Juventute
- Dureschnufe.ch (in German)
- Reden-kann-retten.ch (in German, French or Italian)
- Feel-ok.ch (in German or French)
- Lilli.ch
psy-gesundheit.ch (in German, French or Italian)
