September 19th is Youth Mental Health Awareness Day to talk about mental health issues and support mechanisms for youth. In the UK, mental health issues among children affect 1 in 6 children between the ages of five and sixteen.

Young people, more than adults, experience mental health issues as their access to mental health support is limited and restricted. The number of children affected by mental health has grown post-COVID-19, and parents more than ever need resources to help them talk to their children about mental health.

This year’s theme is #BeBrave, encouraging children to discuss their feelings and emotions. This year\'s theme aims to support children to have confidence and the strength to deal with whatever comes their way.

Learn More About Youth Mental Health Awareness  

Youth Mental Health Awareness Day is an ideal time to educate yourself about youth mental health and how to support children. Reading books about mental illness is an excellent way for parents to educate themselves.

Getting educated about the myth of mental illness can go a long way when talking to youth about mental health issues. As parents, we must know what tools and messaging we should use when talking to our children. Our youth look up to us, and it is our responsibility to be a pillar of support and not to create a situation where children feel judged or misperceived.

5 Ways to How to Approach Mental Health Support Amongst Teens

Here are five ways parents can help support their children and teens when discussing mental health illness. Reading books about mental illness is another excellent way to learn more. Check out some of the best mental health books we have listed below.

1. Stress the Importance of Self-Care

Educating youth and teens about self-care and caring for their health is essential. Studies have shown that sleep and diet balance our mental health. Exhaustion can be vital in why many teens feel stressed and overwhelmed. Make sure your children are getting enough to eat and adequate sleep.

2. Journaling Mental Health

Journaling is a great way to help youth deal with mental health issues and circumstances they may be unable to speak out. Journaling is a valid way that many therapists use with clients who may be unable to verbalize everything they feel and need to confront. Purchase a blank book for your child and encourage them to write.

3. Social Media Usage and Mental Health

Ensuring your teen is not overdoing with social media is integral to supporting mental health. Studies have shown that teens spending excessive time on social media may be unable to exercise boundaries and negatively perceive themselves.

4. Talk Openly about Mental Health

Youth are often unable to talk about mental health because they do not understand it as well as adults. It is essential that, as a parent, you talk about mental health issues openly and with honesty. Children should not feel ashamed or like they cannot speak about these issues at home with their parents. Open up and talk to your children about mental health and how you can support them.

5. Be a Model

Be a good role model for your child regarding self-care and exercising boundaries. If you can model these good behaviours, it will go a long way in making your children understand how they can do the same. Check yourself and show your children how to exercise good mental health practices.

Books about Mental Illness

Checking out books about mental illness is a great way to learn more about mental health issues that affect youth. If you are looking for a place to check out some great reads, then definitely check out Austin Macauley Publisher’s site.

Here are a few selected reads that you can purchase today:

1. Mind and Thought
2. Think Amazing, Be Amazing - A Life Philosophy
3. BATTLING A BRAIN INJURY: The Life That Jack Built
4. A Gift for Carers
5. Keep Stepping - A Step-By-Step Journey to a Clearer View of Mental Well-Being

Get Involved this Youth Mental Health Day

Get more involved this youth mental health day by finding ways to offer support in your community.

Raising awareness on social media accounts is critical to making your friends and family aware of youth mental health issues.

In the end, our children need our support, and any way you can lend your time and ear will be greatly appreciated by everyone around you.

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