May is Mental Health Awareness Month and we invite you to help us spread the word about ways that we all can protect our mental health. In response to the continued concerns about youth mental health, I am reminded that mental and behavioral health awareness is an important part of what we do together every day at KidsMatter.
Helping youth recognize and address their struggles and learn how best to seek assistance is at the core of their well-being and our mission. Well-being is, and always will be, an important part of one’s health to thrive not only in school, but also in future work and life.
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, please join me in sharing how we can protect ourselves by incorporating these eight important points into daily routines:
1) Spend more time outside, 2) Get eight hours of sleep, 3) Practice taking deep breaths, 4) Spend more time with loved ones, 5) Take social media and screen breaks, 6) Move your body, 7) Know your triggers which can empower you to better control your experiences and most importantly, 8) Do what you love.
Working to reduce the stigma around mental health begins with us, and change will occur with a community effort. Let others know that “it is okay to not be okay.”
KidsMatter and our amazing partners are here to support you.
For additional mental health resources, visit our resources blog and the list of members of the Collaborative Youth Team at kidsmatter2us.org today.