RISIS, CHARACTER.ORG CALLS ON ALL PARENTS, EDUCATORS, COACHES, RELIGIOUS LEADERS AND MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS TO EMPHASIZE FOUR CHARACTER-FOCUSED SOLUTIONS:

Reinforce the Importance of Hope and Purpose

Research has demonstrated the significant benefits that emerge when teens have purpose.

Introduce the language of purpose, so teens understand why it is important for them to develop a future-minded mindset. Encourage young people to “find their purpose” based on their interests and character strengths, emphasizing that one’s purpose differs from choosing a career.

Provide opportunities for every teen to explain in their own words how they are in control of their own future (captain of their ship).

2. Ensure that Every Young Person Has At Least One Meaningful and Supportive Relationship with a Caring Adult Research shows the benefits when young people have a caring adult in their life.

Introduce the language of positive relationships, so teens understand why it is important to build a meaningful relationship with a caring adult.

Provide opportunities for every teen to explain in their own words how a caring adult is helping them become their best possible self

3. Emphasize the Practice of Gratitude Research shows that gratitude doesn’t just feel good, gratitude is good for you. Contact: John

Explain why daily gratitude affirmations improve health and lower stress and anxiety

Encourage young people to notice and appreciate the good things in their lives. Provide opportunities for young people to explain their gratitude practice, whether it’s writing in a “gratitude journal” or a specific ritual of gratitude.

4. Teach and Model the Skills of Positive Self-Talk

Recent research has shown the benefits of positive self-talk

Explain to young people that everyone has that “voice” in their heads constantly telling them that no one likes them or that they can’t do anything right. Demonstrate the steps young people can take to select a positive expression to refute their negative self-talk. Provide opportunities for young people to share with others the positive expression they repeat to themselves and why this word or phrase has personal meaning to them.

Conclusion

Character.org calls on our nation’s leaders to come together and combat this epidemic of depression and suicidal ideation Let’s help Americans of all ages feel more connected, hopeful, and purposeful. Young people can be remarkably resilient when they have the language, tools, and skills to use and leverage their own character strengths.

NOTE: To learn more about the research cited above and what else Character org is doing to address the mental health of young people, please visit www.character.org/mentalhealth.

Contact: John Kabashinski

Contact: John Kabashinski john@character.org - 202-642-9928 john@character org - 202-642-9928