Recognizing Mental Health & Wellness Every Month
Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to the families in Uvalde, TX, who are reeling from the unthinkable loss of their children. We pray for the healing of those who were injured, as well as their family members, friends, and all the children that will live in fear and anxiety every day going forward.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month but in my opinion, we should be recognizing mental health and wellness measures every month.
An estimated 20 million of our nation's young people can currently be diagnosed with a mental health disorder, yet there are not enough services, beds, or treatment centers available for children and adolescents suffering from mental illness.
The lack of services for young children, the fear of having our child diagnosed with a mental illness, or the belief that it will just go away in time stops are children from getting the help they need.
Early diagnosis and treatment can give your child the relief and freedom to be a happy, healthy child that will transition from childhood into adulthood with success.
Living with mental health issues every day is far worse than having a label. According to the Mayo Clinic, mental health disorders in children are defined as delays or disruptions in developing age-appropriate thinking, behaviors, social skills, or regulation of emotions. These problems are distressing to children and disrupt their ability to function well at home, in school, or in other social situations.
We need to let our kids and peers know that it is okay to ask for help, to get help, and to talk about mental illness.
Learn about the warning signs and if you are concerned about your child’s mental health, reach out to your pediatrician for referrals, contact a local psychologist or try telehelp from your home at https://www.littleotterhealth.com/ or find another source.
Research what is available in your community to help youth struggling with mental illness issues and if there aren’t many resources, be a catalyst in your and fight for services for our youth that need help while they are young.
For assistance in your community, find a local NAMI organization or affiliate here.
