Celebrating Children’s Mental Health Awareness is crucial because it brings much-needed attention to the mental well-being of our youngest population, laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient future. Early detection and intervention can significantly alter the course of a child's mental health, preventing more severe problems later in life. By raising awareness, we encourage parents, educators, and healthcare providers to recognize and address mental health issues early, reducing stigma and fostering an environment where children feel safe to express their feelings. Ultimately, celebrating Children’s Mental Health Awareness ensures that mental health is given the same importance as physical health, creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all children.

In this issue of the NAMI-NYS Enews you will find an informative article that focuses on the importance of advocating for children's mental health. We also highlight the dedicated and intentional work that we are doing at NAMI-NYS to support mentally healthy children, youth, and young adults in New York State. You will find in this issue a Mental Health Tip From Someone Who Gets It that focuses on providing a practical exercise to talk with children about mental health, a journaling prompt that will encourage you to reflect on your experience as a child and what you can do today to be a safe person for a child in need, and a highlight of our Presentation Ending the Silence. Resources on Children's and Caretaker's Mental Health are also included. Oh, and you can meet our 2024 Champions for Mental Health who are participating in a Competitive Fundraising Campaign to spread awareness on mental health. Read till the end and let us know if you enjoyed this issue!

Bright Futures Ahead: The Importance of Advocating for Children's Mental Health

Investing in children's mental health isn't just about addressing immediate concerns – it's about laying the foundation for their future success and well-being. Research shows that children who receive early intervention and support for mental health challenges are more likely to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By prioritizing children's mental health, we're not only improving their quality of life but also creating a healthier and more resilient society for everyone.

Every child deserves the chance to grow up feeling happy and mentally healthy. When children receive the support they need to navigate their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies, they're better equipped to overcome life's challenges and reach their full potential. By investing in children's mental health early on, we're not just addressing immediate concerns – we're shaping the trajectory of their lives and laying the groundwork for a brighter future. Continue reading to learn how you can be a safe person for a child in need and how to take care of your own mental health as a caretaker. Also, find out about all the ways that NAMI-NYS is doing intentional work to include our children, youth, and young adult perspectives in the work that we do!

What Has NAMI-NYS Been Up To?

Talking to children about mental health can seem daunting, but it's a crucial step in fostering their emotional well-being. As a caretaker, your role in normalizing and destigmatizing mental health is vital. Here’s a practical tip to help you get started:

Use Open-Ended Questions and Active Listening

Children often need a safe space to express their feelings. Start by asking open-ended questions that encourage them to share their thoughts and emotions. For example, instead of asking, "Are you feeling okay?" you might ask, "Can you tell me about something that made you happy or sad today?" This approach invites them to open up without feeling pressured. For a simple exercise you can put into practice with children in your community, click the button below.

Upcoming NAMI-NYS Events

For more information on upcoming NAMI-NYS and Affiliate programs, events, and training sessions, please visit the NAMI-NYS Calendar on our website naminys.org, or click the button below.

NAMI-NYS Affiliate News

Discover NAMI Mid-Hudson’s Transformative Impact!

Join us as we highlight the incredible work of NAMI Mid-Hudson, from displaying the NAMI-NYS Ribbon to conducting powerful "Ending the Silence" presentations for youth. Learn how they are breaking down barriers, spreading awareness, and providing vital mental health resources in our community. Click to read the full story and be inspired by their dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all.

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NAMI-NYS wants to know what your NAMI Affiliate is doing to help those impacted by mental illness!

Share the work your Affiliate is doing with NAMI-NYS for an opportunity to be featured on the Enews and our social media platforms. To submit your Affiliate News please complete the Affiliate Newsletter Submission Form and send it to communications@naminys.org. You can find the Affiliate Newsletter Submission Form on the Affiliate Portal. Click here to access the Affiliate Portal.

NAMI Signature Program Highlight

Ending the Silence

NAMI's Ending the Silence is a powerful, free, evidence-based program designed for middle and high school students, aimed at raising awareness and understanding of mental health conditions. This 50-minute session combines a brief presentation, short videos, and personal testimonies from young adults who share their recovery journeys. Through this program, students learn the basics of mental health, recognize symptoms and warning signs of mental health conditions and suicide, and understand the importance of speaking to a trusted adult for support.

Ending the Silence is presented by two leaders: one who provides an informative overview and a young adult with lived experience who shares their personal story. This format fosters an open dialogue, allowing audience members to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of mental health, helping to break down stigma and encourage supportive conversations.

We offer

• For Students: A 50-minute presentation that educates on warning signs, facts, statistics, and ways to seek help. Research shows this program effectively changes students' knowledge and attitudes towards mental health.
• For School Staff: A 1-hour presentation for staff members, covering warning signs, facts, statistics, and strategies to support students and work with families.
• For Families: A 1-hour session for parents and guardians of middle or high school-aged youth, focusing on warning signs, communication strategies, and collaboration with school staff.

What People Are Saying

• Students: "I often feel very alone or weird because many kids my age don’t understand. But now I’m sure they would be more supportive of me."
• Teachers: "It is amazing what just one day, one talk can do. You never really know what’s going on in the brain of any particular student."
• Parents: "Recently, parents from two different families reached out to me after their children had seen NAMI Ending the Silence. Both were grateful to know about us as a resource."

By participating in NAMI Ending the Silence, schools, and communities can help grow the movement to end the stigma surrounding mental health, providing crucial support and education to those who need it most.

At NAMI-NYS we'd love to have you, your family, friends, and colleagues join any of our free NAMI Signature Programs to learn how to support people with mental illness or to support your recovery journey. To learn when NAMI-NYS or our Affiliates will offer this and other free Signature Programs, please click on the button below.

Journaling to Heal and Grow

Kimberlé Crenshaw once said, "You can't change what you don't see." Self-reflection and self-awareness are needed to heal and change toxic or detrimental behaviors. Journaling is a good way to focus on exploring the many unconscious images, biases, assumptions, and stereotypes we carry about ourselves and others.

Knowing that no one is going to judge or even read your response, be completely honest and write down the first thing that comes to mind when you read the following questions:

Reflect on your experiences as a child, youth, or young adult when your feelings were not listened to. Use these prompts to guide your journaling:

• Remembering Your Younger Self:
• Recall a time when your emotions were ignored. How did it make you feel?
• What impact did this have on your mental health?
• Identifying Needs and Resources:
• What resources or support would have helped you manage your mental health back then?
• How might supportive conversations or compassionate adults have changed your experience?
• Becoming a Safe Person:
• How can you use your experiences to support a child, youth, or young adult now?
• What can you do to ensure they feel heard and validated?
• How can you create a safe space for them to share their feelings

Consider writing a letter to your younger self with the advice and support you needed, and think about how you can offer that same support to others today.

Mental Health Resources

Suicide & Crisis Lifelines & Mental Health Helplines

Resources on Children's Mental Health

Talking to Kids About Mental Health: Tips for Parents and Caregivers

• Description: This resource provides practical guidance for parents and caregivers on how to initiate conversations about mental health with children of different ages. It offers age-appropriate strategies, conversation starters, and tips for addressing common concerns.

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Supporting Children's Mental Health: A Guide for Caregivers

• Description: This comprehensive guide provides caregivers with information and resources to support children's mental health. It covers topics such as creating a supportive environment, recognizing signs of mental illness, accessing professional help, and advocating for children's mental health needs.

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Understanding Children's Mental Health: A Parent's Guide

• Description: This guide offers parents insights into children's mental health, including common disorders, risk factors, and protective factors. It provides practical tips for promoting positive mental health and seeking support when needed.

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Signs and Symptoms of Mental Illness in Children and Teens

• Description: This resource outlines common signs and symptoms of mental illness in children and teenagers. It helps caregivers recognize when a child may be struggling and provides guidance on seeking professional help.

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Starting the Conversation: Talking to Your Child About Mental Health

• Description: This brochure offers practical tips and conversation starters for parents who want to talk to their children about mental health. It provides age-appropriate guidance and emphasizes the importance of open communication.

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Caring for Yourself While Caring for Your Child's Mental Health

• Description: This resource offers support and self-care tips for caregivers who are supporting a child with mental health challenges. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing one's own well-being while caring for others.

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Talking to Your Kids About Mental Health and Suicide

• Description: This guide provides parents with guidance on how to talk to their children about mental health and suicide in a supportive and compassionate manner. It offers tips for initiating conversations, addressing concerns, and seeking help when needed.

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Understanding Anxiety Disorders in Children and Teens

• Description: This resource provides an overview of anxiety disorders in children and teenagers, including common symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. It helps caregivers recognize when a child may be struggling with anxiety and offers guidance on seeking support.

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Taking Care of a Child with Mental Illness: Support for Parents and Caregivers

• Description: This resource offers support and guidance for parents and caregivers who are caring for a child with mental illness. It covers topics such as managing stress, accessing resources, and advocating for the child's needs.

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Helping Children Cope with Trauma: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

• Description: This guide provides information and strategies for parents and caregivers to help children cope with traumatic experiences. It offers guidance on recognizing signs of trauma, providing emotional support, and accessing professional help when needed.

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Mental Health Resources for Families: A Comprehensive Guide

• Description: This comprehensive guide compiles a range of mental health resources for families, including support groups, helplines, online communities, and educational materials. It serves as a valuable resource for parents and caregivers seeking support and information.

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Understanding Depression in Children and Adolescents

• Description: This resource provides an overview of depression in children and adolescents, including common symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. It helps caregivers recognize when a child may be struggling with depression and offers guidance on seeking support.

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Navigating the Special Education System: A Guide for Parents of Children with Mental Health Needs

• Description: This guide offers support and guidance for parents navigating the special education system for children with mental health needs. It provides information on Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), accommodations, and advocacy strategies.

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Understanding ADHD in Children and Teens

• Description: This resource provides information on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children and teenagers, including common symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. It helps caregivers understand ADHD and support children with this condition.

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Promoting Resilience in Children: Strategies for Parents and Caregivers

• Description: This resource offers practical strategies for parents and caregivers to promote resilience in children, helping them navigate life's challenges and develop coping skills. It emphasizes the importance of fostering supportive relationships and nurturing environments.

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Parents & Teachers as Allies: Recognizing Early-Onset Mental Illness in Children and Adolescents

• Description: This resource is tailored for both parents and teachers, providing insights on how to recognize early signs of mental illness in children and adolescents. It includes strategies for effective communication and collaboration between families and schools to support the mental health needs of students.

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Strengthening Families Toolkit: Practical Ways to Promote Mental Health in Children and Adolescents

• Description: This toolkit offers practical advice and activities for families to promote mental health and well-being in children and adolescents. It focuses on building strong family connections, fostering open communication, and creating a supportive home environment.

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School-Based Mental Health: What Parents and Educators Need to Know

• Description: This guide provides valuable information for parents and educators about the importance of school-based mental health services. It covers the benefits of these services, how to access them, and ways to advocate for mental health support within the school system.

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Supporting Students: A Guide for Educators

• Description: Designed specifically for educators, this guide offers strategies for supporting students with mental health challenges. It includes tips on creating a positive classroom environment, recognizing signs of mental illness, and collaborating with parents and mental health professionals.

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Family-to-Family: Peer Support for Families of Children with Mental Health Conditions

• Description: This resource highlights the Family-to-Family program, which provides peer support and education for families of children with mental health conditions. It offers a structured course that covers a wide range of topics, including coping strategies, communication skills, and navigating the mental health system.

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