23/04/2025
💙 World Infant, Child & Adolescent Mental Health Day (WICAMHD) 💙
Today, we shine a light on the mental health and well-being of infants, children, and adolescents. 🧠💛 Early support and open conversations can make a world of difference in helping young minds feel heard, valued, and understood.
Here are some actionable ways to participate:
🗣 Start a Conversation
Opening up conversations about mental health can help children and adolescents feel safe, heard, and understood. Here are some gentle conversation starters:
- “How has your day been? What was the best part?”
- “What’s something that made you feel happy today?”
- “Is anything on your mind that you’d like to talk about?”
- “How do you feel when you’re overwhelmed? What helps you feel better?”
- “What’s one thing that always makes you smile?”
💙 Encourage Emotional Expression
- Help younger children name their feelings with a “feelings chart” or storytelling.
- For older kids and teens, encourage journaling, creative outlets, or open discussions about emotions.
📚 Educate & Share Resources
- Read books or watch age-appropriate videos about emotions and resilience.
- Share trusted mental health resources with parents, caregivers, and educators.
🤝 Support Positive Mental Health Habits
- Encourage outdoor play, movement, and relaxation activities like deep breathing or mindfulness.
- Foster social connections by arranging playdates or group activities.
- Teach self-care strategies like getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking breaks when needed.
🏡 Create a Safe & Supportive Environment
- Reassure children and teens that all feelings are valid and that it’s okay to talk about struggles.
- Model healthy emotional regulation by expressing your own feelings in a constructive way.
- Remind them that help is always available, whether through family, teachers, or mental health professionals.
Let’s work together to break the stigma, promote emotional well-being, and ensure every child has the support they need to thrive. 🌱💙
