connection is critical

With May being Mental Health Awareness

Month, we join our community in increasing awareness on the importance of mental health and wellness in all of our lives. According to NAMI (the National Alliance on Mental Illness), 1 in 6 youth 6-17 years of age experiences a mental health disorder each year, and 1 in 20 adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness each year.

As a school intervention counselor, I see daily how mental health struggles can impact our young people and their families. Social media comparison, loneliness, and trauma are all contributing factors to these struggles. While these struggles are real and overwhelming, I also get to see how connection and community can serve as protective factors for youth and adults alike. Connection is critical for all people but especially for those facing mental illness.

One of the biggest priorities in my work as a school counselor is to build community and opportunities for connection around our students who are struggling emotionally. We have the privilege and responsibility

by Chelsea Alvarado, LPC-S

to do the same for one another. Being involved in our church community is one meaningful way to do so. Whether it is having direct conversations about mental health, providing a place of belonging for children, supporting individuals who are grieving or experiencing hardship, or providing volunteer or service opportunities that bring purpose for those who participate, FUMCR is a hub for connection. At best, this connection is an antidote to mental health challenges perpetuated by isolation. Even for those not currently struggling, this connection can serve as mental health maintenance.

For those parenting school-aged children, never hesitate to reach out to your child’s school counselor with concerns, big or small. We are there at school to encourage your children, to partner with you, and to help in navigating resources when applicable. I sometimes ask students to identify affirmation statements that they most need to hear. One of the most common statements identified is “I belong.” Peer and societal influences sometimes communicate to young people that they do not belong; the value of quality time, screen-free connection, and open communication with our youth cannot be overstated.

I encourage anyone who hasn’t checked out FUMCR’s page on Mental Health and Wholeness to do so for information, support, and resources (fumcr.com/mentalhealth). Grant Halliburton Foundation is another wonderful resource for warning signs and resources for parents, educators, and young people (granthalliburton.com).