May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Our Franklin District is committed to promote and support the wellbeing of all our students, families, staff and community. To highlight this important month, we have put together activities and resources that honor the importance of self care, resilience and coping strategies.
As educators and families, we are first responders to the needs of our students and children, and talking about difficult topics can be challenging. This year, Mental Health America’s Theme is ‘Where to Start’
● LEARN how modern life affects mental health with new resources to navigate our changing world.
● ACT by building your coping toolbox so you can manage stress, difficult emotions, and challenging situations.
● ADVOCATE to improve mental health for yourself, your friends and family, and your community.
If you or your child has questions regarding mental health awareness or additional resources, please contact me at the school.
Sincerely,
Paola Ramirez
School Psychologist, BCBA
Tips from the American Psychological Association
Make them feel safe
You want to put kids and teens at ease so they feel comfortable talking to you. It is essential to make it clear why you are talking with them. Kids especially are fearful that they may be in trouble or are being punished if they are pulled aside to talk. Reassure them that this is not the case and that you are there to offer support. Parents might consider scheduling a time to talk one-on-one on a regular basis, such as having lunch with your kid or teen weekly or biweekly.
Listen to them
Take the time to actively listen to what your kid or teen has to say. Many times, all kids or teens want is someone who will listen to them. Try to understand their perspective before offering suggestions. Sometimes your own anxiety can prompt you to try to fix everything. But in many cases the best help you can offer is to listen attentively.
Affirm and support their need for help
If a kid or teen tells you they’re feeling sad or upset, for example, tell them you’re proud of them for sharing their feelings. Let them know you appreciate the courage it took for them to talk with you and for trusting you to help them. If your kid seems to need more help than you can provide, consult with an appropriate professional. You may want to start by talking to the school psychologist.
Be genuine
Try to avoid speaking from a script. Teens can tell when you’re not being genuine. If you are open, authentic, and relaxed, it will help them to be the same.
Don’t be afraid to say I don’t know
As a parent or teacher, it is OK to admit that you don’t have all the answers. However, if a kid or teen asks you something, you should make every effort to find an answer or someone who can help.
Warning signs of suicide: Suicide is preventable- Hotline 988
The two most important steps in preventing suicide are recognizing warning signs and getting help. Warning signs may include significant alcohol or drug use, a sudden drop in school performance or talking about death or hurting oneself. If you believe your child or student is in crisis, call 911 immediately and stay with him or her while help is on the way.
FOR PARENTS
New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addictions Services
Care for Caregivers: Tips for Families and Educators
Supporting Students Experiencing Childhood Trauma: Tips for Parents and Educators
New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies, Inc. (NJAMHAA)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Children’s Mental Health
KidsHealth for Parents from Nemours Emotions & Behavior
FOR STUDENTS
Hotlines / Helplines - available 24 hours / 7 days a week
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
TeensHealth from Nemours provides adolescents education on a variety of mental health topics and is overseen by medical professionals
National Institute of Mental Health- Do I have Depression?
Mental Health Applications
Breathe2Relax-Users follow along as the app provides deep breathing exercises to lower stress levels.
Happify- Utilizes games and activities to help users relax.
Headspace-Provides guided meditation based on areas of concern.