“THE UNFOLDING CONVERSATION” (Youth)
PARENT EXPLANATION.
2016 marks the 10th Anniversary of National Child and Youth Mental Health Day in
Canada.The Institute of Families for Child & Youth Mental Health has developed a
number of resources and ways to celebrate the importance of caring, connected
relationships in the lives of children and youth, and its impact on their mental health.
Each year, the Institute of Families (Doing Business as the F.O.R.C.E in BC),
dedicates its efforts on May 7th, Child and Youth Mental Health day, to help
foster well-being and caring, connected, relationships between young people
and caring adults. This year marks the Ten Year Anniversary of that commitment!
In the largest survey of BC’s young people aged 13-17 in 2013, results showed
who young people are turning to talk to about their mental health. The highest
rank was 73% who turn to their friends, and the second highest was was 69%
who turn to their families.
Caring, Connected Relationships are a BIG DEAL to young people AND, it
impacts their mental health.
At a youth mental health event in 2016, we asked high students “How do you
want adults to talk to you about your mental health? What do you want them
to SAY and DON’T SAY?” Over 400 students from grades 8-12 wrote down
how they would like to be spoken to, and not spoken to when talking about
their mental health. Using their words, we have created a resource we are
calling the “The Unfolding Conversation” (youth version). Talking to young
people about their mental health matters but it can be hard for adults to know
what to say. “The Unfolding Conversation” is intended to help build Caring,
Connected Relationships between young people and caring adults. It is a
comic graphic available online and in print.
Cont’d on page 2…..
Together-Centred©
www.FamilySmart.ca
We encourage schools and community
organizations to participate
in this activity by following these
4 easy steps:
1. Download the SAY and DON’T SAY 8 1/2 x 11 graphic
2. Attach 2 separate long pieces of paper horizontally along common walls in your building. On each one, write: “How do you want adults to talk to you about your mental
health? What do you want them TO SAY and DON’T SAY?” It’s your turn!
3. Download the SAY and DON’T SAY 8 1/2” x 11” graphics available online and attach
one graphic to each horizontal piece of paper
4. Invite students to share their thoughts and share comments, photos, etc. on twitter,
instagram and facebook
We want to know how YOU are celebrating May 7th!
Email photos to: [email protected]
Facebook: www.facebook.com/FamilysmartInstituteofFamilies
Instagram: youthsmrt
Twitter: @IFCanada
Connect with others using the hashtag #may7icare
Reference for School wall placement:
How do you want Adults to talk to you about your Mental Health...
Together-Centred©
www.FamilySmart.ca