Mental Health

What is mental health? 

Mental health is our emotional and psychological well-being. This correlates with how we think and how we act. Many factors can affect a person's mental health. There can be environmental, social, or economic factors. Mental health also has to do with our nutritional health, sleep, and stress levels. I am an advocate for mental health especially for adolescents' mental health. 

Why is it important?

 "In 2019, data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicated that the percentage of youth ages 12-17 who reported experiencing a past-year major depressive episode (MDE) had doubled over the past decade. Disparities continue, and Black and Latinx children are less likely than white youth to receive treatment for their depression, including inpatient treatment, though they are no less likely to have a major depressive disorder." (Mental Health America). 

The rise in mental health crisis in our youth is shocking. This is a big issue in America and the lack of mental health care for the youth is shocking as well. As an advocate for this issue, I want students to know they are safe and can be stress-free in my classroom. COVID-19 has made the mental health of children and teens has gotten worse. I advocate for more mental health care and resources for the youth of America. I want students to know I see them and they are heard. I want students to know they matter and are loved!