World Mental Health Day has been recognized every year on October 10 since 1992 as a day to bring awareness to a very important subject that affects each and every one of us. Every year the World Federation for Mental Health picks a theme to bring awareness to and this year it is suicide prevention. Read more about their message of hope regarding suicide prevention.
What is Mental Health? Also known as ’emotional health’ or ‘well-being’, our mental health is just as important as our physical health, but because of a stigma attached to mental health problems this information is less commonly known. When it all boils down, mental health is everyone’s business – we all feel stressed or frightened at one point or another, but sometimes those feelings can progress into a more serious problem. A person’s mental health doesn’t always stay the same and it can change as you move through different stages of your life. So we should always be aware, and check in with our self and others, after all it’s healthy to know and say how you are feeling.
What are mental health problems? Mental health problems are actually very common and can include anxiety and depression or something more severe such as bi-polar disorder or schizophrenia. Everyone is different and we all have our own way of dealing with the stresses of life. When it comes to our mental health the best way to overcome certain issues is to recognize how you are feeling and seek help from a professional like your doctor. Checkout this full list of mental health issues from the Mental Health Foundation.
How can I learn more about mental health as a Girl Scout? The International Bipolar Foundation has created a Mental Health Awareness Patch in direct response to the increase in youth bullying, suicide and drug use over the years. With approximately 1 in 4 people in the U.S. diagnosed with a mental health illness, it is important for us to educate ourselves and others in order to reduce the stigma around this common issue. In earning this patch, Girl Scouts will:
- Learn how the brain impacts mental health
- Explore how discrimination against those with a mental health condition makes it difficult to seek help
- Learn about many great achievers who experienced mental illness
- Research how mental health is portrayed in the media
- Create anti-stigma campaign activities
Want to earn the Mental Health Awareness patch? GSSEF is hosting our #BeMindful event on November 9, 2019 where we will be exploring mental health with our presenting sponsor Baptist Health South Florida. All Grade Levels will be earning and receiving the Mental Health Awareness patch (included in the cost of the program) along with other grade-level specific badges and patches with healthcare professionals from Baptist Health! If this is a topic you and your girls are interested in join us at #BeMindful or explore the patch on your own using the guidelines from IBF.
