As cmhw39f20 progresses, efforts will be made to educate the public regarding mental health issues which the younger generations face, regardless of economic and social status or geographical region. Find your Brave will be this year’s theme. On the 3rd of February, a week will commence during which the younger generation will be given the guidance necessary to be brave enough in the face of mental health issues. The week will take on more significance than just promoting bravery; efforts will be focused on educating children and young adults regarding the true meaning of the word. Bravery isn’t about stifling emotions and attempting to fix yourself in isolation. It is about finding ways of constructively and positively dealing with challenges – both mental and physical.
Children and teenagers who suffer from mental health issues are often more likely to experience/live alongside several key risk factors. Part of the cmhw39f20 journey is to educate people on such risk factors so kids mental health issues can more quickly be identified, and help offered that much sooner. With various educational outlets involved, both young and old are being better educated on such risk factors and how to sport them. Lifestyle issues/factors such as at home substance abuse, family violence, poor mental health or loved ones and/or parents, issues surrounding bullying and others can all increase a child’s risk of suffering mental health issues and if identified early, help can be offered sooner.
A good night's rest is essential to the brain development of children. For those aged between 6 and 13, doctors recommend getting at least 11 hours rest a night. Yet, few manage to get as much sleep as this. Often this is due to pressures from school and also an increased use and interest in technological devices such as their mobile phones and games consoles. Sadly, Technology and anxiety are both big triggers of sleep deprivation. Cmhw39f20 hopes to teach children and teenagers how to control their anxiety and electronic usage in order to get a better sleep at night.
A child's parents also need to be aware of any changes in their child's mental health and be able to bring this up with them in a caring manner. Be aware of any of the following behaviours: being unsociable, a lack of real friendships, constant sad mood, difficulty getting to sleep, not eating properly and failing at school If you do notice any of these signs, make sure you let your child know you are here for them to talk to. If their mood does not get better, please consult a GP or discuss with your child's teacher.
It can be easy to forget 30 days is not enough time to overcome and treat mental illness. Small steps from everyone, each day, are necessary for getting there. Cmhw39f20 are aware of this and hope to encourage more people to partake in this. This month serves as a reminder to everyone, especially kids, that they aren’t alone, and they have a support network standing behind them. Let’s use this month to remember how important being sympathetic to those suffering from mental illness is. Unity is the best type of help we can offer those suffering alone in silence. Donations can be left here.