Health Library

Articles In This Section

• Your Child’s Self-Esteem

  Strong self-esteem is a child's armor against the challenges of the world. Here's how to build healthy self-esteem in your kids.

• When a Pet Dies

  For most kids, pets are more than just animals – they're members of the family. So it can be heartbreaking to lose one. Here's how to help kids cope.

• When a Loved One Dies: How to Help Your Child

  When a loved one dies, children feel and show their grief in different ways. Here are some tips for parents on supporting kids through a loss.

• Underage Drinking: What Can Parents Do?

  Many kids and teens try alcohol during their high school and college years. But parents are important role models in this area. Here's how to set a good example.

• Sexual Orientation

  During the teen years, sexual feelings are awakened in new ways because of the hormonal and physical changes of puberty. It takes time for many kids to understand who they are and who they're becoming. Part of that understanding includes a person's sexual feelings and attractions.

• I Love My New Baby. So, Why Am I Sad?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• I’m Pregnant and in an Abusive Relationship. How Can I Get Out?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  Kids and teens who live through a traumatic event can develop posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Healing is possible with the help of professional counseling and support from loved ones.

• Preparing Your Child for a New Sibling

  The arrival of a new baby can cause lots of changes. But parents can prepare kids for an addition to the family.

• Relaxation Techniques for Kids With Serious Illness

  Help ease your child's pain and anxiety with these exercises, complete with step-by-step instructions.

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

  A person with SAD typically experiences symptoms of depression as winter approaches and daylight hours become shorter.

• Sibling Rivalry

  As upsetting as it can be for a parent, conflict between siblings is very common. Here's how to help your kids get along.

• Taking Your Child to a Therapist

  Many children and teens have problems that affect how they feel, act, or learn. Going to therapy helps them cope better, feel better, and do better.

• Teaching Kids About Their Bodies

  Teaching kids about their bodies and what is private can help them develop healthy feelings about their bodies in age-appropriate ways.

• Tips for Divorcing Parents

  Every divorce - and every family - is different. But these guidelines might make the change a bit easier.

• Depression in Teens: How Parents Can Help

  All teens feel sad or moody at times. But when a sad or bad mood lasts for weeks or longer, and when there are other changes in how a teen acts, it could be a sign of depression. Find out what to do.

• Helping Kids When They Worry

  All kids worry at times, and some may do so more than others. But parents can help kids manage it and tackle everyday problems with ease. Find out how.

• Eating Disorders

  Eating disorders are common among teens and kids, especially young women. Read about the warning signs, prevention strategies, and ways to help a child with an eating disorder.

• Disasters: How Families Can Help

  When disasters strike, it's natural for people to want to help. Here are some ways to do that.

• Cyberbullying

  Cyberbullying is the use of technology to harass, threaten, embarrass or target another person. Here are some suggestions on what to do if online bullying has become part of your child's life.

• Coronavirus (COVID-19): How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health

  The COVID-19 pandemic continues to bring uncertainty for kids and teens. Here's how to help them.

• Competitive Sports: Helping Kids Play it Cool

  Sometimes the pressure to succeed on the field or in the court can be overwhelming. Learn what you can do to help your child keeps things in perspective.

• Childhood Stress: How Parents Can Help

  Stress is a normal response to changes and challenges. And life is full of those, even during childhood. Here are tips for parents on helping kids cope with normal stress and how to tell when stress is serious.

• Childhood Depression: What Parents Need to Know

  When a sad or bad mood lasts for weeks or longer and there are other changes in a child’s behavior, it might be depression. Learn the signs of depression and what parents can do to help their child.

• Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) in Kids and Teens

  For teens, concerns about appearances often take center stage. But if these concerns are severe and keep them from doing and thinking about other things, it may be a sign of a condition called body dysmorphic disorder.

• Anxiety Disorders

  Anxiety is a normal part of growing up, and all kids experience it. But when it becomes extreme, it can interfere with a child's overall happiness.

• Answering Questions About Sex

  Answering kids' questions about sex is a responsibility many parents dread. But by answering these questions honestly, parents can help foster healthy feelings about sex.

• Helping Your Child Heal After Trauma

  Kids can recover after trauma with help from therapy and extra support and comfort from parents.

• Cutting and Self-Harm

  Some teens and even pre-teens hurt themselves on purpose. Find out why some cut or do other types of self-injury and how to help.

• Helping Kids Deal With Bullies

  Unfortunately, bullying is a common part of childhood. But parents can help kids cope with it and lessen its lasting impact.

• Stress Center

  All kids feel stressed at times. Learning to cope with life's ups and downs is what resilience is all about. You can help kids build their inner strength and confidence.

• Childhood Fears and Worries

  It's normal for children to feel afraid at times. Parents can help kids feel safe and learn to feel at ease.

• Is Your Child Depressed? (Video)

  How can you tell the difference between everyday moodiness and depression? Learn the signs of depression and discover ways to help your child feel better.

• Helping Your Child Manage Anxiety (Video)

  Feeling nervous, worried, or uneasy at times is a normal part of growing up. Here's how to help your child feel more in control and deal with stress.

• Helping Your Child During Treatment for Depression (Video)

  Treatment for depression may include therapy or a combination of therapy and medicine. One widely used therapy is called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

• Separation Anxiety

  Teary and tantrum-filled goodbyes are common with separation anxiety, which is a perfectly normal part of childhood development.

• Taking Care of Your Mental Health During Pregnancy

  Pregnancy brings a mix of feelings, and not all of them are good. It can be even harder if you're dealing with depression or anxiety.

• Postpartum Depression

  It's important for new mothers – and those who love them – to understand the symptoms of postpartum depression and reach out to family, friends, and medical professionals for help.