Families

Supporting Families: Tools for Mental Health and Well-Being

At Stride, we know that family life can be challenging, especially when your child is struggling with their mental health. It’s not easy to watch your child face anxiety, emotional difficulties, or behavioural issues, and it can feel even harder when you’re waiting for help that seems out of reach. With long waiting lists for mental health services and strict thresholds to qualify for support, many families are left feeling stuck and isolated.

In today’s world, it can feel like you’re carrying the weight of these struggles alone. Extended family isn’t always close by, and the support structures that may have existed in the past just aren’t as readily available. On top of that, the fear of mental health stigma makes it hard to reach out or admit that you need help. At Stride, we understand how isolating this can be, and we’re here to offer something different.

You’re Not Alone: Tools to Support Your Family

You’re not alone in wanting the best for your child. We believe that parents shouldn’t have to wait for help, or feel like they have to navigate these issues by themselves. That’s why we’ve developed a range of practical, easy-to-use guides that give you the tools to support your child’s mental health at home. These resources are designed for you to use with your children and teens, offering guidance on everything from managing anxiety and stress to improving communication and building emotional resilience.

We know that when mental health challenges arise, it’s not just your child who’s affected—everyone in the family feels it. Our approach is systemic, which means we look at the whole family unit, not just the individual. When one member is struggling, it impacts everyone, and our resources are designed to help you work together to create a more supportive and connected family environment.

Breaking the Isolation in a Disconnected World

In the individualistic world we live in, it can feel like everyone is dealing with their problems privately, behind closed doors. This can leave you feeling deeply alone, especially when you’re unsure where to turn for help. The stigma that still surrounds mental health often makes parents afraid to speak up or seek support, and that fear can make the situation feel even more isolating. Our guides offer a way to break through that isolation by giving you tools that you can start using immediately, without waiting for formal services.

These guides are built on a foundation of trauma-informed and anti-oppressive thinking, meaning they’re designed to be sensitive to the unique pressures your family may be facing. Whether it’s the stress of modern life, experiences of discrimination, or the complexities of trauma, we focus on creating practical, compassionate interventions that can be used by any family, whatever their situation.

Practical Support for Every Family

We know that parenting is hard, and when your child is struggling, it can feel overwhelming. Our resources are designed to give you confidence and guidance when things feel uncertain. By offering structured interventions and activities that you can work through with your child, we’re helping to create positive, practical steps towards better mental health—right within your own home.

These guides don’t just focus on managing symptoms; they help you rebuild connection, improve communication, and strengthen the family dynamic as a whole. You don’t need to be a therapist to use them—just a parent who wants to help your child and your family feel stronger.

What If You Are Waiting for Support?

Waiting for mental health support can be incredibly challenging, especially when you see your child struggling. It’s easy to feel powerless during this time, but there are still meaningful steps you can take to support your family. Our guides are designed to help bridge that gap, providing you with practical tools and interventions that you can use at home while waiting for professional services.

These resources can help you start addressing the emotional and behavioural challenges your child and family are facing, giving you a sense of control and progress. By working through the guides with your child, you can create a more supportive environment, strengthen family connections, and foster emotional resilience.

While these guides offer valuable support, it’s also important to keep reaching out to professionals. Continue to communicate with your GP, your child’s counsellor, or any relevant services that can provide further help. These resources are a supplement, not a replacement for professional care, and maintaining contact with health professionals ensures your child gets the full range of support they need.

Strengthening Your Family Together

At Stride, we believe that connection is the heart of a healthy family. Our guides help you focus on that connection, encouraging stronger relationships, better communication, and a more resilient family dynamic. These resources are not just about quick fixes; they’re about building lasting, meaningful change that benefits your child’s mental health and the family as a whole.

You don’t have to feel alone in this process. By working together with the tools and interventions in our guides, your family can find new ways to cope, support each other, and build a stronger future. Even in a disconnected world, you can create a sense of togetherness that supports everyone’s well-being.

Start Today

If you’re ready to take steps toward improving your family’s mental health and well-being, explore our range of guides and resources. We’re here to help you build a stronger, more connected family—starting today. You don’t have to face this journey alone; together, we can make a difference for your child and your whole family.