Topics for lesson planning
The Division of Mental Health, Bureau of Child and Adolescent Services, is excited to release its first Mental Wellness Awareness Resource. During the month of February, we celebrate Black History Month, President Lincoln's and Washington's Birthdays along with Valentine's Day. There are other National Awareness events occurring this month, and we wanted to share some resources with you that may be included in your clinical practice, lesson plans, or daily reflection.
Black History Month
During the month of February, we reflect on and honor the history of African Americans while we also celebrate the many accomplishments of mental health pioneers from the Black Community. Through the work of the Behavioral Health Workforce Center, we hope to impact changes in the system that will decrease disparities while increasing access to providers that represent members of diverse communities.
International Boost Self-Esteem Month
Self-esteem impacts all aspects of our mental wellness and emotional well-being. Developing a healthy self-esteem involves believing and respecting yourself, and in turn, being able to build positive relationships with others. Healthy self-esteem is a protective factor which allows you to handle stress and improves motivation.
Children's Dental Health Month
Many people don't know there is a direct link between a child's Oral health and their mental wellbeing. It's true; oral health impacts how we speak, eat, and smile, all of which all impact self-esteem and healthy relationships.
Teen Dating Awareness & Prevention Month
According to an article from the Centers for Disease Control, one in twelve teens experience physical dating violence and the same ratio of 1:12 experience sexual dating violence. Females and those who identify as LGBTQIA+ are at even greater risk. This section provides resources on how teens may recognize red flags for abuse and what to look for in a healthy relationship.
Random Acts of Kindness Day (Feb. 17th)
What a perfect set of resources to follow Valentine's Day - continuing the expression of giving throughout the week. The American Psychiatric Association article provided below cites new research highlighting the benefits of performing acts of kindness resulting in reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety while improving life satisfaction.
National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (Feb. 23-Feb. 29)
We close out the month addressing eating disorders. While this week focuses on the mental health concerns associated with eating disorders, it is an opportunity to remind everyone the importance of healthy nutrition while providing education and awareness about eating disorders. Psychology Today recently posted an article highlighting the impact of good gut health in improving mood, specifically improving symptoms of anxiety and depression. Both may play a role in body image and are risk factors for eating disorders.
