Mental Health Awareness Month
May is recognized as Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of caring for our own mental wellbeing and the wellbeing of our children. This month is an opportunity to talk about the different challenges that affect mental health, such as anxiety, depression, and stress. However, we should also remember that mental illness can stem from a variety of situations, including child abuse.
Child abuse can have a profound and long-lasting impact on the mental health of survivors. Abuse can include physical, emotional, and sexual forms, and can lead to trauma and other mental health conditions later in life. Not only can survivors struggle with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after experiencing trauma, but they may also engage in self-harm and have suicidal thoughts. As such, it’s incredibly important that we recognize the connection between mental health and child abuse.
One way that the Friends of the CJCSLC shows our support for the mental health of children that have been vicims of abuse, is to not only support the CJCSLC steps to prevent child abuse, but also to fund programs that help abused children recover, heal and turn their trauma into resilience. This includes teaching children to recognize abuse when it's happening, and tell someone they trust. If you see it happening as an adult, please report it, advocate for policy and legislative changes that prioritize the safety of children, and support organizations that work to end child abuse.
Additionally, if you’re a survivor of child abuse, it’s important to know that there are resources available to help you manage your mental health. Seeking out mental health care, joining support groups, and finding ways to take care of yourself are all important steps towards healing.
Mental Health Month is an important reminder of the need to prioritize mental wellbeing. As we raise awareness about mental health, let us also remember that child abuse is a critical issue that can have significant mental health consequences. Let us come together to care for children and provide support to those who need it.
The Friends of the CJC are constantly working towards the best approaches to improve the lives of children who have been victims of abuse, and with your support, we can continue to provide the community with resources to better understand abuse recognition and how we can do our best to prevent child abuse from happening in the first place.