Mental Health Awareness Month more important than ever | Parentally Speaking

Ezra Helfand
·3 min read
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May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The goal is to raise awareness about mental illness and to reduce the stigma that surrounds it. During this month, we strive to educate the community about the importance of mental health and how it affects us all, especially how it affects our youth.

Changes in mental health and signs of distress in young people can show up in many ways. Some examples of mood changes are irritability, anger and withdrawal. Other signs can be changes in their thoughts, appearance, performance at school and sleeping or eating patterns. ADHD, anxiety problems, behavior problems and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children.

It is important to note that having a mental disorder was most common in children with depression: about 3 in 4 children with depression also had anxiety and almost 1 in 2 had behavior problems. What we know is that depression and anxiety have increased over time. And keep in mind that, for adolescents, depression, substance use and suicide are important concerns.

Basically, mental health conditions are real, common and treatable. People experiencing mental health challenges deserve support, compassion, and care – not stigma and shame.

And of course, let’s not forget, COVID-19 added to pre-existing challenges that youth faced and many are still facing. Since the pandemic began, rates of psychological distress among young people have increased. The pandemic is most heavily affecting those who were already vulnerable. This includes youth with disabilities, racial and ethnic minorities, LBGTQ+ youth and other marginalized communities.

Changes in mental health and signs of distress in young people can show up in many ways.
Changes in mental health and signs of distress in young people can show up in many ways.

Mental health conditions can be shaped by biological factors, including genes and brain chemistry and environmental factors, including life experiences.

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We all have a role to play in supporting the mental health of children and youth. Mental health challenges are the leading cause of disability and poor life outcomes in young people. Unfortunately, in recent years, we’ve seen significant increases in certain mental health disorders in youth, including depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation.

Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and their families can make a difference in the lives of children with mental disorders. Access to providers who can offer services, including screening, referrals and treatment, varies by location. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is right now working to learn more about access to behavioral health services and supports for children and their families.

Parents and guardians need to have an honest conversation with their children. If you see a change in mood or behavior, try and find out what is going on. You should consider speaking with their friends and their educators. Remember, whether your child is in crisis – or know someone who is – don’t remain silent. And if you need help, here are a couple of resources:

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: If your child prefers to always be alone and or has admitted to having thoughts of suicide, talk to someone you can trust. Call or text 988 or chat the Lifeline.

  • NJ Hopeline: 855-654-6735

  • NJ MentalHealth Cares: 866-202- HELP(4357)

You don’t have to go it alone. There is help!

Ezra Helfand is Executive Director of the Wellspring Center for Prevention. You can reach him at ezra.helfand@wellspringprevention.org.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Mental Health Awareness Month more important than ever