For years, mental health was a topic that was always kept under wraps. People either ignored or refused to believe that mental wellbeing needs to be discussed. Even when many men and women spend their entire lives suffering, the very few who sought therapy were frowned upon.
However, things have gotten much better over the last three decades. With increased awareness, the first World Mental Health Day was observed on October 10th in 1992. Slowly but steadily, people started accepting the fact that mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health. Still, there were major gaps in recognizing mental and emotional distresses in people, which in most cases, start right from childhood.
Childhood experiences and mental health
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics noted that positive childhood experiences lead to better adult mental health. A survey was conducted among 6,118 adults on some of their most important childhood experiences and the results were consolidated. The adults who reported 6 to 7 positive childhood experiences included in the survey were found to be 72% less likely to suffer from depression or at least 14 poor mental health days every month. The study concluded that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) like abuse, neglect, violence, and parental absence leave long-lasting negative effects on a child’s mental health, while positive nurturance helps reduce children’s stress hormones, helping them relax and to become open, curious and maintain positive relationships with others.
In short, better mental health is guaranteed with positive childhood experiences. This is why we need to give the right care, attention, and support to our children in all aspects of their life
The Need For Children’s Mental Health Week
The Children’s Mental Health Week was launched in 2015 by Place2Be (P2B), a UK based organization that provides in-school emotional support to children and young people. The primary aim of this week is to raise awareness of children’s mental health, the support available, and encourage conversations about mental health. This year’s Children’s Mental Health Week is taking place from 1st to 7th February 2021, with the theme “Express Yourself”.
‘Express yourself’ focuses on helping children find ways to share their thoughts, feelings, or ideas through creativity. Children are encouraged to pursue activities like art, music, poetry and writing, dance and writing, photography and film, and other activities that make them feel good.
It should be noted that ‘Express yourself’ is not about competing with peers or putting on a performance for others. It is all about finding ways to show who you are and how you see the world. The core idea is to help children learn ways to be happy and feel good about themselves.
During the Children’s Mental Health Week 2021, children, as well as their parents or caregivers, are encouraged to explore various ways to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through creative activities. By creating a safe space for your child to follow their passion and realize their potential to be creative and find happiness, you will contribute to positive experiences in their lives.
Every child has the potential to make it big in this world. They are all born with innate talents and a thirst to learn and explore. By helping them live a happy childhood, you are essentially building a happier, healthier, and amazing generation.
For more information on Children’s mental health week, reach out to our wellness center in Dubai.
