Family Support Shields Children from Loneliness and Depression, Experts Advise
A free anti-drug counseling session, organized by Prothom Alo Trust, was held on August 2, 2025, at Prothom Alo's Karwan Bazar office. This marked the 171st such session. Professor Dr. Mohit Kamal, former director of the National Institute of Mental Health, and Professor Mekhla Sarkar, a psychiatrist, provided guidance during the event. Their advice focused on 'Parental Actions During a Child's Mental Crisis.' Dr. Kamal emphasized that during adolescence and subsequent periods of physical and emotional change, parents should act as empathetic friends rather than just disciplinarians. He stated that children need to believe their family is their ultimate refuge, regardless of circumstances, as this conviction protects them from loneliness and depression. Additionally, parents should foster problem-solving skills in their children. Instead of solving problems for them, parents can ask for their input, such as, 'What do you think is the best way for us to handle this situation?' This approach encourages children to think critically, develop decision-making abilities, and build self-confidence.
The advice highlights the critical role of familial support structures in mitigating adolescent mental health challenges like loneliness and depression. By fostering a sense of secure attachment and encouraging independent problem-solving, parents can empower children to navigate developmental transitions more effectively. This approach shifts the parental dynamic from authoritarian control to collaborative guidance, aligning with contemporary understandings of positive child development and resilience-building. In the context of increasing societal pressures and digital isolation, strengthening these foundational family relationships is paramount for cultivating robust mental well-being in the next generation. The emphasis on developing problem-solving skills also prepares youth for future challenges, promoting self-reliance and adaptive coping mechanisms.
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