As a pediatrician, my heart breaks for the young Alaskans facing increasing mental health challenges. The latest Youth Risk Behavior Survey reveals alarming trends — rising depression, suicidal thoughts, and cyberbullying — especially among our daughters. These aren’t just statistics; they represent real children in Alaskan towns and villages who need our support more than ever. 

This isn’t just an Alaska issue; it’s a national crisis. Parents and caregivers are the frontline defense against this mental health crisis. Your involvement can make all the difference in your child’s mental well-being, and together, we can help them navigate these challenges. 

1. Foster Open Communication: 

Children need to feel safe talking to their parents or other trusted adults about anything, including their mental health struggles. By creating a supportive environment at home, you can help your child open up about difficult feelings, help put words to the strong emotions and work together to seek the help they need. 

2. Prioritize Mental Health: 

Just as you take your child to the doctor for physical health, prioritize their mental health too. Early intervention is key, and professional help should be sought if your child shows signs of distress. Mental health is as vital as physical health, and it’s never too early to address it.  

3. Address Cyberbullying: 

Cyberbullying is on the rise, with 20% of Alaska teens reporting being victimized online. It’s essential to monitor your child’s online activities, encourage respectful behavior, and support them in speaking up against bullying. 

4. Model Healthy Behavior: 

Children look to the trusted adults in their lives as role models. Demonstrate how you manage stress, talk about your positive and negative feelings, prioritize your well-being, and incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. These habits not only improve physical health but also boost mental well-being. 

5. Build Community Connections: 

Alaska’s close-knit communities are one of our greatest strengths. Encourage your child to participate in community activities that foster social bonds, whether through local sports teams, clubs, or volunteer work. These connections provide essential emotional support. 

Parents and caregivers in Alaska have a unique capacity to drive change. Your voices are powerful in school board meetings, in legislative chambers, and in conversations with health care providers.

By advocating for comprehensive mental health education and services in our schools, you can help ensure that mental health care starts early and is accessible to all Alaskan children.  

Moreover, partnering with health plans and local organizations can amplify your impact. Your feedback helps tailor services and policies to better meet the diverse needs of our communities.

Together, we can develop programs that reach our most remote areas, expand telehealth to improve access, and create culturally competent care that respects and understands our unique Alaskan backgrounds. 

Education plays a pivotal role as well. Parents who are informed about mental health issues can foster open, stigma-free discussions at home, preparing their children to manage their mental  health and seek help when needed. By working with nonprofit organizations and community groups, we can champion youth mental health, especially for historically underserved communities in our state.  

Together, we can create a health care environment in Alaska that doesn’t just treat illness but actively promotes wellness and resilience. This means addressing current disparities and preventing future ones by ensuring our young people have the tools they need to handle life’s challenges. 

These are challenging times, but with compassion, vigilance, and proactive steps, Alaska’s caregivers can make a profound difference in their children’s lives. Let’s ensure that mental health care is recognized not just as a service but as a fundamental right for every young Alaskan. This journey requires persistence, collaboration, and a deep commitment to our children and their future. Let’s continue advocating, learning, and partnering as we strive to transform Alaska’s health system into one that serves every child, in every community, with the care and dedication they deserve.