MINSK, 15 November (BelTA) – A family plays a key role in mental well-being of children, UNICEF representative to Belarus Rashed Mustafa Sarwar told the media, BelTA has learned.
“Mental well-being of children is very important for parents and the society. The Healthcare Ministry and the Education Ministry should reach out to parents, because the mental state of children depends on their parents. Responsible parenting is of paramount importance. If you look at the reasons for teen depression, you will see that loneliness is the primary cause. If children feel lonely, it means they have no one to talk to except for gadgets,” Rashed Mustafa Sarwar said.
In his words, child mental health is high on the agenda in many countries. It is a multi-sectoral issue that should involve all stakeholders. “Belarus ranks better than other countries in terms of mental health of children and teenagers,” the UNICEF representative said.
At the same time he emphasized that seeking help for mental health problems is still stigmatized. “We need to change this system. Teenagers should be able to trust it,” he said.
