Mental Health Awareness Month

  • Posted April 25, 2024

Dear Parents/Guardians,

May is Children’s Mental Health Awareness Month. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being in our children. The aim is to create an environment where children feel valued, supported, and understood to lay the foundation for positive mental health throughout their lives. The themes for Children's Mental Health Week 2024 revolve around fostering resilience, building self-esteem, and encouraging children to express themselves. 

  • Building Resilience: Teach children the value of resilience and coping strategies. Resilient individuals are better equipped to navigate life's challenges, and instilling these skills early on is crucial.
  • Embrace Individuality: Encourage children to embrace their unique qualities and celebrate what makes them special. Individuality contributes to the rich tapestry of our communities.
  • Express Yourself: Highlight the importance of self-expression as a means of promoting mental well-being. Whether through art, music, writing, or other outlets, children should feel empowered to express their feelings.
  • Kindness Matters: Promote a culture of kindness and empathy. Simple acts of kindness can have a profound impact on a child's mental health and contribute to a positive and supportive environment.
  • Connect and Communicate: Emphasize the importance of open communication. Encourage children to talk about their feelings and seek support when needed. Foster strong connections with family, friends, and educators.
  • Holistic Well-being: Recognize the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. Encourage a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep, to support overall well-being.
  • Digital Well-being: Address the role of technology in children's lives. Promote healthy screen time habits and the importance of balancing online activities with real-world experiences.

In Orange County: This year, the annual Children’s Mental Health Awareness walk is being hosted by Voices United  4 Change.  This walk is held the first Saturday of every May to help raise awareness of children's mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it.  The day will be filled with fun for the family including crafts, face painting, a tricky tray, and more.  

The walk will be on May 6th from 9 am - 12 pm at Algonquin Park in Newburgh NY.  Please call 845-421-7324 for more information or follow this link for registration: https://vu4cwalk23.givesmart.com/  

If you have any questions or would like additional resources for home, please contact the social worker at the numbers listed below.  

Sincerely,

  • Kari Venetis; HBE Social Worker
    • (845) 858-3100 ext. 4645. 
  • Dave Freda; HBE Social Worker (Leave replacement for MacKenzie Muller) 
    • (845) 858-3100 ext. 4551. 
  • Lisa Whiteman; ASK School Social Worker 
    • (845) 858-3100 ext. 3645
  • Erin Lehn; Middle School Social Worker
    • (845) 858-3100 ext. 2645
  • Jennifer Grismer; High School Social Worker
    • (845) 858-3100 ext. 1645