Teen Health Course 2Chapter 5:
Mental and Emotional HealthParent Letters - EnglishParent Letter and Activities
For use with Chapter 5 Dear Parent or Guardian,
We are now studying the topic of mental and emotional health in your child’s
health class. Students will explore the signs of good mental health, including
building self-esteem, having an optimistic outlook, being resilient, and
acting responsibly. Our studies will include understanding emotions, and
finding healthful ways to express them. Students will also learn skills to
help manage stress. Finally, students will look at mental and emotional disorders
and explore resources for finding help for these problems.
Some questions your teen will consider as we discuss this topic are: What
are the signs of good mental health? What are examples of positive self-concept
and self-esteem? How can I recognize and express my emotions in a healthful
way? What are strategies for managing stress? What are some types of mental
and emotional problems? What resources are available for help with mental
and emotional problems?
Mental health habits are formed during adolescence, so answers to these questions
will help your student through the changes of this time in his or her life.
To support and extend our classroom work, please set aside some time during
the next few weeks to complete one or more of the following activities with
your teen: - Discuss a situation in your own past during adolescence when you
managed stress in a healthful way. Tell your teen that you understand that
the stress of a person his or her age is real stress.
- Encourage your child
to share emotional problems with you. If this is not possible, brainstorm
professional resources that he or she has learned about in health class.
Stress the importance of seeking help early for a serious problem.
- Together
with your child, learn a stress management technique together. You might
take a long, vigorous walk together, enroll in a yoga or tai chi course,
or learn various deep breathing techniques.
Of course, feel free to engage
in other activities you think will promote good mental and emotional health.
Your activities will be a welcome addition to our efforts here. As always,
do not hesitate to contact me for further information.
Sincerely,
Health Teacher  | 
