What Should Parents Know to Support Child Mental Health and Family Well-Being?

What Should Parents Know to Support Child Mental Health and Family Well-Being? Episode 20 with Lily Chen Join us as we explore child mental health, parent support, and community-based mental health education. In Episode 20 of the Parent Confidence Lab Podcast, we welcome Lily Chen, a public health nurse and the founder and executive director of UCA WAVES (Wellness, Advocacy, Voices, Education, and Support). Lily shares how community organizations can help families access mental health education, peer support, and resources that promote children's well-being. We discuss why supporting child mental health starts early, how parents' emotional well-being can affect their ability to support their children, and why active listening and creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment are essential for parent-child communication. Lily also explores the mental health challenges facing Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) youth, including academic pressure, racial discrimination, cultural expectations, and the stigma that can prevent families from seeking support. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or professional working with families, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on supporting children's mental health, strengthening family connections, and breaking the silence around mental health challenges. In this episode: Why early childhood is important for mental health support How parents can support their own emotional well-being Why active listening and quality time matter How academic pressure and cultural expectations can affect young people's mental health How racial discrimination and the model minority myth can affect a child's sense of belonging How parents can create safe spaces for open conversations Why community advocacy and mental health education matter Chapters How can a public health nurse help your family? Join us as we explore community health advocacy and wellness education for parents. In this episode of the Parent Confidence Lab, we are joined by Lily Chen, a public health nurse and the founder of UCA WAVES. We discuss the critical role of community organizations in providing wellness, advocacy, voices, education, and support for families navigating today's complex health landscapes. Lily shares her perspective on how parents can better engage with local resources to build a stronger foundation for their children's well-being. Whether you are seeking better access to information or looking for ways to get involved in your neighborhood, this conversation offers practical insights on how to find the parent support you need. Subscribe to the Parent Confidence Lab for more conversations about parenting, child development, and building a supportive community for your family. 0:00 The Roots of Mental Health Advocacy 2:50 Expanding Wellness Programs for Families 7:48 Workforce Development and Mental Health Training 12:57 The Role of Research in Advocacy 15:51 Essential Advice for Supporting Young Children 27:42 Deconstructing the Model Minority Myth 44:03 Wisdom for the Modern Mother Subscribe to the Parent Confidence Lab Podcast for more conversations about parenting, child development, and building supportive communities for families. #ChildMentalHealth #Parenting #MentalHealthAwareness