Today is National Children's Mental Health Day and together we can be the positive change in mental health support for our children. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 1 in 5 children have a mental health disorder. These illnesses, just as any health concern, need proper support, treatment, and care with compassion.
Below are 8 ways Caregivers can support children's mental health in practical ways:
1.) Talk about it and listen more than you talk
2.) Dance it out together
3.) Go for a walk together
4.) Do breathing exercises together
5.) Praise them for what they did, can do, or have achieved
6.) Journal or draw solutions together
7.) Find a counselor to explore play therapy with them
8.) Focus on what you can control... and don't forget a hug!
Using the above technique's promotes the healthy development of children socially, emotionally, and physically. There is a Yoruba proverb that says "It take's a village to raise a child", and I truly believe we are not in this alone. As people, we thrive in relationships and our children need us to model what positive mental health is all about. Together, we can do this- let's holistically support them on their journey of greatness.
Learn more tonight, May 5, 2016 at 7:00 pm EST by watching this webcast: Awareness Day Live!
Awareness Day Live! is your community’s opportunity to be a vital part of the Awareness Day national event. You can join the discussion about how communities around the country are connecting children, youth, and young adults with mental and substance use disorders—and their families—to behavioral health services and supports. You also will learn about strategies for addressing barriers to behavioral health care access.
Watch the Webcast at 7 pm est Here: