ROCKINGHAM – Trauma can happen to anyone, at any age. It’s important to be aware of how trauma can trigger mental health issues in young people to prevent mental health conditions before they reach crisis. Half of all mental health conditions start by age 14. By increasing understanding of trauma and recognition of early warning signs of mental health conditions, we can get young people to seek help and support as soon as possible so that they can address issues before crisis, Before Stage 4. Our 2018 Back to School Toolkit will provide young people with information to help them understand the effects trauma, including the onset of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and psychosis. This year’s toolkit includes: · Fact sheets on trauma, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and suicide prevention · Poster for use in schools and youth centers · Social media posts and images · Sample article for use in school newsletters · A worksheet with grounding techniques While we can’t completely shield young people from all the traumatic situations they may face, we can help them learn to manage their emotions and reactions in ways that cultivate resilience. Advertisements If you are concerned about your child and think they may be dealing with a mental health issue, reach out and start a conversation. Don’t assume it’s just “kids being kids” when your gut tells you it may be something more. Consider taking the Parents Screen at mhascreening.org to check symptoms that you are witnessing. Take the Parents Screen by clicking here. |