Dads Diffuse Depression
Continued closeness with dad may help children stave off bouts of the blues.
Teens who felt their relationship with their father had developed and grown as they did were least likely to suffer episodes of depression, a recent study showed. Strengthen the bond with your kids by grabbing every opportunity to connect with them. When you aren't together, check in with them via e-mail, instant message, or phone.
Many dads have a difficult time showing physical affection and offering emotional support to their kids simply because it was not part of their own upbringing. However, the study below and others show that when fathers are distant, unavailable, or uninvolved with their children, it can undermine kids' self-esteem and confidence and negatively impact their overall mental well-being.
Fortunately, dads can express affection in a variety of effective ways. Giving your children your time and attention will show them how important they are to you and can help you stay close to them. Even if you have only 10 minutes to spare, stop multi-tasking and give it all to them. Talk to them, ask them questions, find out their opinions, and really listen to what they have to say. These regular exchanges will help deepen your bond with your kids.
