Being an important adult for a child can be challenging, but it's also an incredibly important role. The Ommej app is a resource that helps children and young people sort and put their thoughts and feelings into words.
If a child shares something difficult or troublesome with you, it is important that you show respect, understanding and care as a safe adult. The first step is to listen to the child and give them your full attention. Show that you care and that their feelings are important. Avoid giving instant solutions. Be patient and let them take their time to tell, so they really feel heard. Ask the child if they want help and how they want it if they want it.
Worrying about doing the wrong thing or not saying the right things can be intimidating enough. But the truth is that important adults in the children's environment are invaluable and an action or non-action by you can be decisive for a child's future. When it comes down to it, the details don't matter as much. The most important thing is to convey that there is someone who sees, who cares and who dares to stand still, even if it feels difficult.
Think of!
It's normal to feel anxious about doing the wrong thing or not saying the right things. But remember that important adults in the child's life are invaluable and your actions can be decisive for their future.
The most important thing is to convey that there is someone who sees, cares and stands by even when things get difficult.
Some concrete advice for you as an important adult:
In cooperation with Mind Hub for support and training
To further strengthen our support for those of you who play a decisive role in the lives of children and young people, Ommej has started a collaboration with Mind Hub. Mind Hub offers lectures and courses aimed at parents and schools, to spread knowledge and increase understanding around mental illness. Their work aims to equip and guide adults in the complex but important role of parent, mentor or other significant adult in the fight against mental illness.
For those of you who feel the need for more personal counseling, Mind Hub also offers digital psychological counseling through video calls. These sessions are a great way to get individual support in parenting or learn more about how you, as an adult, can be a support to children in need.
Visit Mind Hub for more information about their services or contact us directly if you want to know more about our collaboration and how it can benefit you in your role as important adults.
You play a crucial role: How the Ommej app can be a support
Perhaps your child has been offered to use the Ommej app in contact with school, social services or in care, or perhaps a child has shared their story with you? Regardless of the situation, as an important adult in a child's life, you are a central resource for children to be able to tell how they feel. When children are allowed to speak, participate and have an influence, the result is faster, better and more just.
Being an important adult for a child can be challenging, but it's also an incredibly important role. The Ommej app is a tool that helps children and young people sort and put their thoughts and feelings into words.
If a child shares something difficult or difficult with you, it is important that you show respect, understanding and care as a safe adult. The first step is to listen to the child and give them your full attention. Show that you care and that their feelings are important. Avoid giving instant solutions. Be patient and let them take their time to tell, so they really feel heard. Ask the child if they want help and how they would like to get it.
Worrying about doing the wrong thing or not saying the right things can be intimidating enough. But the truth is that important adults in the children's living environment are invaluable and an action or inaction on your part can determine a child's future. When it comes down to it, the details matter less. The most important thing is to convey that there is someone who sees, who cares and who dares to stand still, even when it is difficult.
Do you want more knowledge about mental illness in children and young people and how you as an adult can help?
If you suspect that a child is in harm's way based on what they tell you, you can make a report of concern, even anonymously. As a private person, you are not obliged to report a concern, but for the child's best interests and safety, it may be important to act.
You can read more about when and how to report a concern on the BRIS website:
