CHOC Mental Health Update | April 2021
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mental health art and word contest

Thank you Friend,

for being a champion for kids with mental illness in your community. Learn how you can help start the conversation about pediatric mental illness.

CHOC’s mental health art and word contest
Between April 1 and April 30, CHOC invites school-aged children to submit visual and written art addressing the theme of “Checking In.” Winners will be selected from three age groups and will receive prizes. A selection of artwork will be featured online, at CHOC and community locations.

College students experiencing increased depression and anxiety
A nationwide survey revealed that depression and anxiety among college students are reaching their highest levels; this is perhaps impacted by rising stress factors brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, political unrest, and systemic racism and inequality. One bright spot: the survey also discovered a reduction in stigma associated with mental health.

How to talk – and listen – to teens struggling with mental health
Many clinicians across the country are reporting levels of distress, including suicidality, in adolescents at levels higher than they have ever seen. These same professionals believe the pandemic is interfering with teens’ ability to meet their basic developmental needs. What can you do? This NPR article offers tips, including validating and modeling.

Movies that inspire kids to change the world
Movies can play a powerful role in inspiring kids and teens. From thinking about the environment differently to eating healthier, films can spark action in viewers. Check out this family-friendly viewing list compiled by Common Sense Media.

Who is Gen C?
“Gen C” is a term that first started showing up in media reports during the early stages of the pandemic, a time everyone had hoped would be short-lived. A year later, experts are studying the ways the world-wide crisis will shape an entire generation. They are now using “Gen C” of “Generation Covid” to address the pandemic’s long-lasting impact on children.


This email is intended to share news and information about the need for pediatric mental health services in Orange County and CHOC’s role in meeting those needs.

This email is not intended to replace the relationship you have with a physician or another healthcare practitioner. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. This email includes links to other websites which provide additional information that is consistent with the intended purpose of the CHOC Mental Health newsletter. Linking to a non-CHOC site does not constitute an endorsement by CHOC of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the site.

    
Long Live Childhood