PAWS for Mental Health Awareness
A PCS Newsletter April/May 2023
Mental Health Matters
Mental Health often gets a bad name, but in reality, mental health is something that we all have. It affects how we feel, think and act. It's how we handle stress and relate to others. Having a healthy positive mental health status helps our students to become successful academically and socially. We have a wonderful group of school counselors, who can assist you with finding resources, if needed.
CALMING ANXIETY IN CHILDREN/TEENS
Quick Calm Down Tools
Encourage your child to try these strategies that can be done anywhere (home, sitting at their desk in the classroom, etc).
- Drink cold water
- Count backwards
- Think of your favorite things/Imagine your favorite place
- Give yourself a hug
- Name different brands of cereal (or anything)!
Deep Breathing
- Breathe in like you are smelling a flower, breathe out like you are blowing out candles
- Place your hand on your stomach and pretend it's a balloon. Breathe in and feel your stomach "inflate". Breathe out and feel your stomach "deflate".
Support and Encourage
Let your student know that you understand they are having a difficult time and that you are there to listen and help in ways you can. The phrases and questions below help students understand they are not alone in their feelings.
- "We can work through this together."
- "How can I help you?"
- "Do you want to talk?"
- "Would you like a hug?"
- "I'm here for you."
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed since 1949. Each year, millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. In May, the National Alliance of Mental Health joins the national movement to raise awareness about mental health. Each year, the campaign works to fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
Mental Health Statistics
- 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
- 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
- 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
- 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14 and 75% by age 24
Ways to Observe Mental Health Awareness Month
- Take care of yourself - Practice self care, make an appointment with a counselor, talk with a friend, get proper rest, drink water, and eat a balanced diet are some examples of ways to take care of yourself!
- Take care of loved ones - Check on your friends and family (call, text, write a letter, visit in person), encourage loved ones to make healthy food choices and get rest, providing a listening ear, encourage them to make an appointment with a mental health professional, if needed, etc.
- Talk about mental health - Talking about mental health helps to normalize people's experiences. Post on social media about mental health awareness to provide support. Talk to your friends and family about the importance of mental health awareness. Share, when comfortable and appropriate, about your challenges and listen when others share with you.
Mental health challenges are no one’s fault. For many people, recovery – including success in social life, school, and work – is possible There are many tools that can assist someone with mental health challenges, including medication, counseling, social support, and education. If you have concerns about your child's mental health and need assistance finding resources, contact your school's counselor or district mental health coordinator.
Pelham City Schools
Email: mstowe@pelhamcityschools.org
Website: www.pelhamcityschools.org
Location: 3160 Pelham Parkway, Pelham, AL, USA
Phone: (205) 624-3700