May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It was created to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans’ lives and to celebrate recovery from mental illness. Increasing awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being and providing resources and information helps to support individuals and communities who may need mental health support. The definition of Mental Health is “a state of emotional, psychological, and social well-being that enables individuals to cope with life’s stresses, realize their abilities, learn, work well, and contribute to their community. It is more than the absence of mental illness, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social health at every life stage” from the National Institute of Health. So, how can we help our own mental health?
DID YOU KNOW mental health is essential for overall well-being at every stage of life. Regardless of age, background, or experience, prioritizing mental health strengthens individuals, families, and communities.
DID YOU KNOW many mental health issues affecting adults start in childhood and adolescence?
We all want what is best for our children and you may be concerned or have questions about certain behaviors they exhibit. Mental Health Awareness month is a reminder that emotional wellbeing is an important part of child development, and support can look different for every child!
Creating safe spaces and meeting children where they are can make a positive difference in their lives
Here are a few easy tips to build up positive coping skills to strengthen kids mental health:
Teach deep breathing exercises to calm the mind and body during stressful moments.
Help kids identify and label their emotions using age-appropriate tools.
Encourage regular physical activity and playtime to release tension and boost mood.
Maintain a daily routine.
Teach the importance of engaging and connecting with peers, empathy, and listening to others.
Empower children to help others.
Nurture a positive self-view and practice positive self-talk and loving who you are.
And remember you need to take care of your mental health to be able to support kids and their mental health so go easy on yourself and remember: your feelings are valid, even the ones you don’t fully understand. Healing isn’t linear, your allowed to have good days and bad days. And asking for help is a sign of strength!
-TASK
TASK- the Tahoe Alliance for Safe Kids, is a local non-profit that addresses topics each month through our Did You Know Campaign. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips and resources each month around the highlighted DYK Campaign or visit our website at www.tahoesafekids.org
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