Hello and happy Memorial Day Weekend!
For this month we would like to focus on Mental Health. The month of May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental Health Awareness Month began in 1949 to address the millions of people living every day with mental health conditions. Many organizations, including our school, are continuing to work on the importance of de-stigmatizing mental wellness. One way we can all do this is to help foster open conversations and cultivate empathy toward ourselves and others.
Did you know that 1 in 6 youths experience a mental health condition each year, and only half of them receive treatment? If you feel concerned about your child’s mental health and need ideas to help start a conversation, you may want to try: “Are you willing to tell me more about what is happening? Maybe if I understand better, then we can find a solution together.” Or “I’ve noticed that you are (sleeping more, eating less, etc.), I am here to talk when you are ready.”
It's also important to realize that as parents we often want to fix all of our child’s problems. When your child does confide in you, sometimes it is helpful to say: “Is this something you need help solving or would you just like for me to listen?”
In fact, the simple practice of uninterrupted listening can be extremely powerful.
As always please reach out to us anytime with any questions or concerns you have.
Catherine Nein-School Counselor catherine_nein@yarmouthschools.org
Chelsea Collupy-Social Worker chelsea_collupy@yarmouthschools.org
Michelle Napoli-Social Worker michelle_napoli@yarmouthschools.org
*We can also be reached by calling the main office phone
207-846-2499
