Our family is usually where we spend the most time growing up. Where we develop, where we discover life, and where we deal with the most intense of relationships. Families are alive and emotional. They can be a source of education, personal fulfillment, and enrichment. Being in a family can feel like an experiment sometimes. Some things work, some things don’t work. Sometimes we learn by trial and error.
Most families have some degree of “unconditional love.” Family members make mistakes, they can get into trouble, they can experience trauma; and still be accepted and loved for who they are. Events happen, and most families are drawn even closer together. “Family” is where one gets fed. Where one gets clothed, washed, and nourished. “Family” is where needs get met.
Your family’s mental health matters too. when one needs a little time to rest or to be intellectually stimulated or emotionally comforted. Your family’s mental health matters when children need the love of their parents, and when parents choose to love their children and lead them into becoming mature and independent adults.
Every family has its ups and downs, its joys and its sorrows. There are good times and not so good times. No family is perfect. But family members can “choose “ to be patient with one another. They can “choose” to be forgiving. They can “choose” to love in spite of any conditions.
What about your family? Would you like to improve the mental health of your family? If so, try a few of the following:
• Help out when needed.
• Let someone else win.
• Be gentle.
• Be dependable.
• Do some activities together as a family.
• Be a good listener.
• Be thoughtful.
• Make someone laugh.
• Make someone feel loved.
• Cooperate.
Families have feelings, and it’s OK for families to express their feelings. Families need to express their thoughts and opinions too. Each family member can learn more effective and constructive communication skills.
Family love usually begins with the parents. Be good role models. Children watch what we do. If we role model love to them, they often feel more secure and more loved in return.
And finally, for good family mental health, make certain to balance work, play, family time, and commitments to others outside the family.
There will always be hundreds of things that can/need to be done. Most families try to give some of their time to each priority.
My hope is that, during May, which is “Mental Health Month,” is that you try to keep your relationships alive and especially enjoy the benefits of a mentally healthy family.
