The Board of Behavioral Sciences of California posted this and we thought it would be important to share.
In December 2021, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released an advisory on the youth mental health crisis further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The advisory outlines actionable steps for health leaders, community organizations, and governments to protect youth mental health.“Mental health challenges in children, adolescents, and young adults are real and widespread. Even before the pandemic, an alarming number of young people struggled with feelings of helplessness, depression, and thoughts of suicide—and rates have increased over the past decade,” Murthy said. “The COVID-19 pandemic further altered their experiences at home, school, and in the community, and the effect on their mental health has been devastating. The future wellbeing of our country depends on how we support and invest in the next generation. Especially in this moment, as we work to protect the health of Americans in the face of a new variant, we also need to focus on how we can emerge stronger on the other side. This advisory shows us how we can all work together to step up for our children during this dual crisis.”
The complete advisory can be found at www.hhs. gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/youth- mental-health/index.html.
If you are worried about child or teen, please reach out and get them connected with services: counseling, mentors, teachers, coaches and clubs all play a part in well rounded life which help mitigate and improve mental health concerns. As we head back to school, please keep in mind the connectedness and community is key and encourage school engagement, activities and involvement. The earlier the intervention, the better the outcome so please, don't wait.