Student Life
Wellness
Mental Health Awareness Month
Dear York Prep Families,
Mental Health Awareness Month is observed in May and has been since 1949. The goal is to raise awareness about mental health risk factors, the connection between physical and mental health, and how to practice self-care. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. This is a great time to highlight the importance of taking care of your mental wellness.
During the month of May NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) raises awareness about mental health. Their organization helps fight the stigma, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
Below are ways to raise awareness for teen mental health issues:
- Take teen concerns seriously:
Often, teens' behavior is perceived as being dramatic. Over 1 in 5 youth (ages 13-18) either currently or at some point during their life struggle with a serious mental health concern that requires support. While you may not understand everything that teens go through, you can always be a supportive person who acknowledges that their challenges are real and valid.
- Encourage teens to speak up:
Self-advocacy is such an important part of growing up. Encouraging a teen to speak up about their struggles can help them feel safe and supported. Let them know that you are always there to listen and support them.
- Be an advocate for teens:
Being a teen is complex, and there are many ways that growing up can impact their mental health. Speak up and show your support for the teens in your life and other impacted teens. You can advocate for a teen with medical providers or help a teen you know speak up and get help. Your support is invaluable.
- Find creative ways to raise awareness:
From attending events or donating to good causes, to wearing specially branded clothing that calls attention to issues, there is always something you can do. National Alliance on Mental Illness ( NAMI) is one such organization. They are a grassroots organization that aims to improve the lives of people affected by mental illnesses. It provides support, education, and advocacy. They can be reached at (518) 462-2000.
- Share your voice and help raise awareness for teen mental health:
Every teen is unique and has a story all their own. Their mental health may fluctuate as the years go by. Raising awareness about the reality of teen mental health issues can empower teens to address these challenges and get the support they need. Whatever you decide to do whether it’s speaking out on these topics or sharing your message via social media, getting involved with mental health organizations, or sharing a message through a mental health clothing brand, such as (SAD) Stay another day, or The Happiness Project, your actions can help a struggling teen.
Mental health problems are unlikely to improve on their own. If there is a teen struggling in your life, don’t hesitate to seek outside help. Reach out to your child's therapist. If they don’t have a therapist, you can find one that you feel is the right fit for your child. Don’t hesitate to ask the school counselors, your pediatrician, online directories, or recommendations from other parents. There are many resources out there to help you find the care your teen needs.
Warmly,
The Wellness Team
