Join the Oregon Child Support Program in observing National Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) this May. This national observance increases awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being. Throughout the month, we encourage you to provide resources and information to support individuals and communities who may need mental health support, including children.
Mental health is an important part of overall health for children and adolescents. During the week of May 5–11, MHAM focuses on the mental health of children and teens. Specifically, the emphasis is on how to help children and teens build resilience, self-care strategies, and skills for managing life stressors in healthy ways.
Here are some key messages from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) that focus on ways supportive families, communities, and resources can help youth build strong foundations for lifelong well-being.
- Teach children and teens coping skills to empower them to take charge of their mental health.
- Know the signs of mental health issues in children and teens. Early diagnosis and treatment can save lives.
- Start the conversation early: talking about mental health can help children and teens build coping skills and feel comfortable with their emotions.
- Nurture relationships and environments to help children and teens develop good mental health and manage life stressors in healthy ways.
- Good mental health increases the ability of children and teens to practice self-care and face challenges with resilience.
Along with the Office of Child Support Services, SAMHSA is part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). SAMHSA leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation.
For more information visit https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health-awareness-month.
Resources
Did you know that connecting with friends and family is a great way to cope with stress? This free coloring and activity book teaches children about stress and anxiety and offers tips for coping in a healthy way.
Stand Up to Stress! Coloring and Activity Book
Life can get challenging sometimes, and it’s important for kids (and adults!) to develop strategies for coping with stress or anxiety. This stress catcher “fortune teller” offers some strategies children can use to help manage stress and other difficult emotions.
Stress Catcher
National Institute of Health website (for link to online stress catcher steps and how to video)