Mental health problems are on the rise in Canada, especially in teens. With that in mind, celebrating World Mental Health Day is an excellent idea, and it will enable you to open discussion with your teen about mental health. It’s also a brilliant opportunity to do something fun together, and you can raise money for charity. Here are some ways to celebrate World Mental Health Day together.
Fundraising for Mental Health
Raising funds for a mental health charity is an excellent way to give back, especially if the charity in question has helped you. Charities often have fundraising packs free to download from their websites and offer a number of useful suggestions, such as:
- Run a bake sale
- Hold a crafternoon
- Hold a yard sale
- Have a sponsored costume day
- Get someone to shave their beard or dye their hair a bright colour
Let your teen pick an activity for you to do together. We’re all guilty of getting caught up in the day-to-day and not making enough time for each other; nevertheless, why not celebrate World Mental Health Day by hanging out with your teen for the day? It’ll be great for your mental health and theirs. Not to mention, you’ll be able to raise money for mental health treatment.
Talk About Mental Health
Make some time, even if it’s only five minutes, to talk about mental health. There is still a lot of stigma about emotional issues; for instance, being able to tell someone you feel bad can still feel wrong. Open the conversation by sharing how you feel, and seize the opportunity to show your teen that telling someone how you feel is ok. Ask them how they feel, or if they have any concerns about their mental health or someone else’s. Gently reinforce the fact that you are a safe space to turn to for help.
It’s also worth talking about mental health treatment. In other words, what does your teen expect if they need mental health treatment? Do they have any concerns about therapy or medication? Discuss some conditions with them, and how you might recognize them in yourself or a friend. You can also go over how they would treat someone with a mental health problem.
Sponsored Exercise for Mental Health
We all know that physical exercise is great for our mental wellbeing, so celebrate World Mental Health Day with a sponsored run, cycle, or even a walk. You could try something new, or something unusual, and have a great day out with your teen.
Check out your local charities and find out what they’re doing this year. There may be something you can get involved in, and you might end up with a new hobby you can share with your teen for a long time.
Celebrate with Venture Academy
It is heart-wrenching to see your child suffering, and asking for help is one of the hardest things you can do. We understand how distressing these situations are. Nevertheless, there is help available.
For instance, at Venture Academy, we offer a number of programs, including:
- 30-day assessment and intervention
- Drug and alcohol treatment
- Behavioural treatment
- Electronic addiction treatment
- School programs and education
Your teen will be part of a first-rate program combining therapy with education, life skills, and experiential learning. They will make new friends, and you can rest easy in the knowledge that they are getting the care they need.
It can be concerning to witness your child falling into destructive behaviours. We understand and are ready and willing to listen to you and your teen. Call Venture Academy to discuss your teen’s mental health at 866.762.2211 today.
