June is Men’s Mental Health

June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. Let’s talk about it:

Despite the growing awareness of mental health issues, men continue to be an underserved population in therapy and mental health services. Studies show that men are less likely to seek mental health treatment than women. Historically, men have been conditioned to suppress their emotions, often being told to “man up” or “tough it out.”; This cultural expectation has profound implications, contributing to a significant disparity in mental health treatment between men and women. Below are some alarming statistics that highlight the critical need for effective mental health interventions for men.

 According to the National Institute of Mental Health, only about 1 in 4 men with a
mental health condition seek professional help, compared to nearly 1 in 2
women.

Men are disproportionately affected by suicide. The American Foundation for
Suicide Prevention reports that men die by suicide at a rate nearly 4 times higher
than women.

Breaking Down Barriers: The Importance of Mental Health Treatment for Men and
Addressing the mental health needs of men is not just a matter of public health but also a societal imperative. Below are some key reasons why mental health treatment for men is crucial in addition to ways to offer support to the boys and men in your life:
1. Improving Quality of Life: Mental health issues can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Untreated mental health conditions can lead to a range of problems, including substance abuse, relationship issues, and decreased productivity. By seeking treatment, men can improve their overall well-being and lead more fulfilling lives.

2. Reducing Suicide Rates: Given the high rate of suicide among men, access to mental
health services can be life-saving. Therapy and other mental health treatments can
provide men with the tools to manage their symptoms, develop coping strategies, and
find hope in their darkest moments.

3. Encouraging Emotional Expression: Therapy can help men break free from the
societal norms that dictate emotional suppression. By learning to express their feelings in a healthy way, men can build stronger relationships and develop a more profound understanding of themselves.

4. Addressing Co-Occurring Disorders: Many men who struggle with mental health
issues also face co-occurring disorders, such as substance abuse. Integrated treatment that addresses both mental health and substance use can lead to better outcomes and a more holistic approach to recovery.

5. Encourage Open Dialogue: Creating environments where men feel comfortable
discussing their mental health is crucial. This can be facilitated through family and
friends, support groups, workplace wellness programs, and public figures speaking
openly about their own mental health struggles.

6. Challenge Stereotypes: Society must continue to challenge and change the
stereotypes that prevent men from seeking help. This involves promoting diverse

representations of masculinity and emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Conclusion
Men’s mental health is an underdiscussed issue in our society. By recognizing the unique barriers men face and working to create a more supportive and accessible mental health care system, we can help men lead healthier, happier lives. Its time to break the silence and ensure that men receive the mental health treatment they need and deserve.

Preparing For a Fulfilling Summer: A Guide For Parents

As the days grow longer and the school year winds down, parents everywhere begin to think
about how to make the most of the summer months. While summer is a time for relaxation and
fun, it’s also an opportunity for growth, learning, and creating lasting memories with your
children. Here are some key topics you might want to consider as summer approaches.

1. Planning Engaging Activities
One of the biggest challenges for parents is keeping their children engaged and entertained
throughout the summer. Consider a mix of activities that include:
 Outdoor Adventures: Nature hikes, picnics in the park, and beach days can be great
ways to enjoy the sunshine and stay active.
 Creative Projects: Encourage your child’s creativity with arts and crafts, DIY projects, or
even writing and storytelling.
 Educational Outings: Visits to museums, science centers, and historical sites can be
both fun and educational.
 Summer camps: Look into local daily, weekly, or monthly camps that your child may be
interested in to provide some independence, socialization, and a break from their normal
routine at home
 Therapy groups: Improve your child’s social-emotional learning through one of our
wonderful in-house summer groups such as tween empowerment, ADHD mini clinics, or
preschool social skills
2. Balancing Screen Time
With more free time, children may be inclined to spend more hours in front of screens. Establish
clear guidelines for screen time to ensure it's balanced with physical activity, social interactions,
and other enriching activities. Encourage breaks and provide alternatives such as reading,
puzzles, or outdoor play.
3. Fostering Independence
Summer is an ideal time to help your child develop independence and life skills. Teach them
how to cook simple meals, manage a budget with a small allowance, or take responsibility for
certain household chores. These skills will serve them well beyond the summer months.
4. Prioritizing Mental Health
The change in routine can be stressful for some children. Keep an eye on your child's mental
well-being by maintaining open communication. Encourage mindfulness practices such as
meditation, journaling, or yoga. Make sure they have time to relax and unwind, and be mindful
of their social needs, arranging playdates or group activities if desired.
5. Creating a Summer Schedule
While summer is about relaxation, having some type of schedule can help provide structure for
your child. Outline daily routines that balance free play with structured activities, rest periods,
and family time. This can help prevent boredom and ensure a well-rounded summer experience.

Too much free-time or structured time can both be unhealthy in surplus so make sure to check-
in with your child to ensure it feels like a healthy mix for them.
6. Family Bonding
Summer is a perfect time to strengthen family bonds. Plan family activities such as camping
trips, game nights, or simply cooking meals together. Use this time to create lasting memories
and enjoy each others company without the pressures of the school year.

Summer offers a unique opportunity for growth, relaxation, and family bonding. By planning
ahead and considering these topics, parents can ensure a fulfilling and enjoyable summer for
their children. Whether it’s through engaging activities, fostering independence, or simply
spending quality time together, the memories made during these months can last a lifetime.

Shannon’s Corner

5 Essential Spring Break Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know

As spring approaches, parents are gearing up for the inevitable excitement and chaos that
comes with it. While spring break can be a time of fun and relaxation, it’s crucial for parents to
prioritize safety, especially if their children are embarking on trips or adventures. Here are five
essential safety tips to ensure a worry-free spring break for both parents and children.

1. Plan and Communicate: Before your child sets off for spring break, sit down together and
create a detailed plan. Discuss where they’ll be staying, who they’ll be with, and how
they'll be getting around. Ensure they have important contact information, including
yours, emergency contacts, and local authorities. Encourage them to keep you updated
regularly and establish check-in times.

2. Practice Sun Safety: If your child’s spring break involves sunny destinations, emphasize
the importance of sun safety. Remind them to wear sunscreen with a high SPF, reapply
regularly, and seek shade during peak hours. Encourage them to wear protective clothing,
sunglasses, and hats to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion.

3. Stay Hydrated: Whether lounging on the beach or exploring new cities, staying hydrated
is key to a safe and enjoyable spring break. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water
throughout the day, especially in hot climates. Remind them to carry a reusable water
bottle and avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can lead to dehydration.

4. Use Safe Transportation: Discuss transportation options with your child and emphasize
the importance of using reputable and safe methods of getting around if you will not be
with your child during their trip. If they're driving, remind them to obey traffic laws,
avoid distractions, and familiarize themselves with a map or GPS before getting in the
car.

5. Trust Your Instincts: Above all, remind your child to trust their instincts and prioritize
their safety at all times. Encourage open communication and assure them that they can
always reach out to you if they need help or advice. Remind them that it's okay to say no
to anything that makes them uncomfortable and to seek assistance if they find themselves
in a risky situation.

Spring break should be a time of fun, relaxation, and new experiences, but it's crucial for parents
to prioritize safety. By following these five essential tips, parents can help ensure their child's
spring break is not only enjoyable but also safe and worry-free. Encourage these practices to
your child to make this spring break a memorable and safe one for your child and entire family.