A long term study in childhood has reported that adverse events, such as abuse, neglect, parental divorce, domestic violence, incarceration or substance use, can determine health outcomes over a lifetime. Specifically less adverse events before the age of 18 is associated with
- 67% lower dissatisfaction in life
- 57% lower incidence of anxiety
- 42% lower sense of hopelessness
- 33% lower separation or divorce
- 26% lower incidence of cardiovascular disease
- 24% lower incidence of cancer
- 21% lower alcohol dependence
On the other hand, another study has affirmed the need for cumulative, positive childhood experiences, such as:
- Talking to loved ones about feelings
- Having family support during difficult times
- Participating in community traditions
- Having a sense of belonging in school
- Being supported by friends
- Having interest and companionship from non-parent adults
- Feeling safe and protected at home
More positive experiences results in a lower risk of depression in adulthood, by an astonishing 50% to 70%. This is a good reminder for us to prioritise family and create a nurturing environment for kids this year during Covid.
Ways to raise happy, positive kids include:
- Be happy yourself – relax, enjoy hobbies, spend time with friends, iron out triggers and sources of stress in your life
- Help them build relationships – acts of kindness can teach kids empathy and help them relate to others
- Praise effort, not achievement (attention Tiger moms!)
- Encourage optimism – help kids understand a different perspective, see opportunity as well as problems
- Focus on EQ, emotional intellgience – empathise, play back and help find ways to develop understanding
- Create happiness habits – set simple goals, celebrate progress, motivate and encourage participation
- Allow adequate playtime
- Teach self-discipline (especially delayed gratification)
- Enjoy a family meal together, and less TV
References:
- http://medicalrepublic.com.au/the-old-the-new-the-borrowed-and-the-blue/31479
- https://time.com/35496/how-to-raise-happy-kids-10-steps-backed-by-science/