YouthSpeak charity is hosting a three-part online series on Oct. 21, Oct. 28 and Nov. 4 geared toward mental health and helping adults communicate better with their loved ones.
Each part of the Caring Adult series will run from 7p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and participants will have the opportunity to ask questions.
In Understanding Youth Mental Health, the effects that mental health challenges and everyday stresses have on youth mental health will be addressed. A trained youth speaker will discuss their lived experience to help parents understand what kids are going through and provide tips on how to create a safe space for youth to talk.
In Self-Care for Caring Adults, YouthSpeak founder Una Wright will share her personal story with challenges related to mental health within her family and the researched-backed coping tools. Participants will learn the tools for coping with everyday stress; Tips to increase personal well-being; How to fast-track to mental clarity and inner peace during challenging times; Equity and trauma-informed content.
In Connecting with Mindful Communication, participants will explore the art of using mindfulness tools to support communication with loved ones. The session will be facilitated by coach Amber McAuley, a child and youth counsellor, and participants will receive a copy of McAuley’s A Map to Limitless Parenting workbook.
According to Wright kids who struggle with anxiety or depression are often hesitant to speak to their parents about it. Kids don't want to burden their parents or want their parents to be over-reactive and the workshops will give parents the tools and skills for creating a safe space for kids so they can talk to their parents.
"Youth today are struggling tremendously. Youth metal health was already on the radar as an emerging issue but most certainly since COVID suicide rates for youth have increased," said Wright.
Participants who sign up will be able to virtually attend all three workshops. Wright said she wanted the series to be accessible to everyone so there is no cost to participate but a donation would be appreciated.
