Support for families in protecting the mental health of children

The family can be a background of health crises and – at the same time – the greatest source of support for a child. It plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of disorders and increasing the psychological immunity of teenagers. The article presents a number of threats to the mental health of young people, derived from different research. Its main goal is to present the importance of the support system for parents and families in protection of children's mental health. Against this background, some parental errors and deficiencies are analysed as the reasons for ignoring the first symptoms of a child’s crisis. Support for the youth and their families should be provided not only from parents but also from teachers, pedagogues and their wider social environment. Many institutions, including medical staff, schools, governmental and non-governmental organisations may effectively support parents and caregivers in prevention and intervention in a situation of mental crisis. The article discusses the determinants of effective help for families experiencing mental health crises of children.