Mental Health is a state of well-being in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of daily life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community. Physical well-being is the ability to maintain a healthy quality of life.
1 in 6 youth reported making a suicide plan
More focus and motivation
1 in 3 high school students experience persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
Increased creativity and interest in learning new things
Increased risk of drug use, experiencing violence
Improved progress in education
Increased chronic disease and death
Healthier and longer lives
Apish Tsheshta has co-founded Waves for Change, a registered South African non-profit organisation. They have worked with universities, children and young people to develop a community-based, child-friendly mental health service. Surf Therapy combines the positive health benefits of surfing and physical activity with activities proven to help young people build positive relationships and optimistic images of their future.
Boston University of Public Health introduced youth-produced narratives. They asked a group of 9-12-year-olds from the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester, MA to form a narrative of “why it was important for them to reduce their sugary-drink intake.” Staff assisted participants in producing their own written, video, or audio narratives. Results showed that participants and their parents used fewer sugary drinks and more water over 6 months.
Help youth discover wellness opportunities by participating in daily exercise
Create a platform or a club for all types of people to openly gather and collaborate through mental exercises
Meditation and yoga sessions in school
