Dr. Reham Hassan, a mental health consultant, recently discussed the impact of screens and family conflicts on children's mental health in an interview on the Egyptian radio show "Horoof Al-Gar". She emphasized that children often view their parents as boring, which can lead to a disconnection between generations. To bridge this gap, Dr. Hassan advises parents to show genuine interest in their children's lives and hobbies without comparing or belittling them.

Dr. Hassan expressed concern about the effects of screens on children's mental health, citing the promotion of isolation and individualism. She stressed the importance of group activities in schools as a way to combat these issues. According to Dr. Hassan, individualism can lead to envy and selfishness, and group activities can serve as a form of psychological therapy. She also noted that children today struggle to express their emotions and thoughts effectively, which can lead to internal emptiness and difficulties in understanding themselves and others.

The mental health expert discussed the issue of people who constantly talk about their expensive possessions, such as luxury watches or clothing. Dr. Hassan believes that this behavior may be a reflection of internal problems and a need for self-validation. She described these individuals as having fragile personalities and potential psychological issues, possibly driven by a desire for social status.

Dr. Hassan also addressed the impact of family conflicts on children, stating that children are directly affected by the atmosphere at home. She emphasized that marital conflicts can have a significant impact on children's mental health and that parents should prioritize resolving their issues for the sake of their children. According to Dr. Hassan, constant arguing and insults can create a toxic environment that can lead to psychological disturbances in children.

The expert highlighted the importance of effective communication and listening in relationships. She noted that people have become more focused on taking pictures and presenting a perfect image on social media, rather than engaging in meaningful conversations. Dr. Hassan emphasized that true listening involves understanding and empathy, rather than just hearing words.

Dr. Hassan discussed the challenges of choosing a life partner, emphasizing that it is not enough to simply be attracted to someone's qualities. Rather, it is essential to consider whether the partner can help navigate life's challenges and conflicts in a healthy way. She advised against choosing a partner who constantly criticizes or compares themselves to others.

In conclusion, Dr. Reham Hassan's insights highlight the importance of addressing the mental health risks associated with screens, social media, and family conflicts. By promoting healthy communication, empathy, and self-awareness, parents and individuals can work towards creating a more supportive and nurturing environment for children to thrive.

Key points

  • Dr. Reham Hassan warns of the risks of isolation and social media on children's mental health.
  • The expert emphasizes the importance of group activities in schools to combat individualism and isolation.
  • Dr. Hassan advises parents to show genuine interest in their children's lives and hobbies to bridge the gap between generations.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.