Mental Health Ministry

November is Early Childhood Mental Health Awareness Month, an important time to spotlight the emotional well-being of our youngest members!

🧠 Evidence-Based Fact
Did you know that children's mental health is profoundly influenced by their relationships? Secure and nurturing connections with caring adults, including family, teachers, and church leaders, help children develop the essential skills needed to manage emotions, problem-solve, and build resilience. These strong relationships act as a powerful buffer against stress and future mental health challenges.

🤝 Action Step for Our Congregation
You can make a difference right here!
This month, let's commit to actively listening to the elementary-aged children in our lives. When a child shares a worry, a frustration, or even an exciting story, practice listening without immediately trying to "fix" or minimize their feelings.
• Ask gentle, open-ended questions like, "What was that like for you?" or "Tell me more about that."
• Validate their emotions by saying, "It sounds like you were feeling really frustrated," or "It makes sense that you were sad about that."

By providing a safe, non-judgmental space to express their feelings, you teach a child that they are seen, heard, and loved, strengthening their emotional health and trust.

NAMI Family & Friends - Wednesday, November 12 from 7:00 - 8:30 pm in Room 158
This free 90-minute seminar with National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) informs and supports people who have loved ones with a mental health condition.
What You'll Learn: The seminar is led by trained people with lived experience of supporting a family member with a mental health condition. They will walk you through the following topics.

• Understanding diagnoses, treatment and recovery
• Effective communication strategies
• The importance of self-care
• Crisis preparation strategies
• NAMI and community resources

Family & Friends - Register Here