We need to advocate for children and people struggling and facing crises in our communities and globally, says Samira Tahsoon
Published : 10 Oct 2024, 11:55 AM
Mental health is a fundamental part of life and the human psyche.
Oct 10 is World Mental Health Day and spreading awareness of the issue is crucial because fostering a welcoming and supportive environment can improve the lives of many who struggle with mental health issues. Though the topic is discussed now more than ever, lack of support has been an enduring issue. Stigmatisation and damaging environments can hinder treatment and people’s willingness to ask for help.
The rise in mental health cases we see nowadays is a product of more awareness and access to data but is also prompted by persistent issues that affect the lives of many such as war, poverty, abuse, etc.
Social media has been a leading factor in normalising the discussion of mental health issues or disorders. It not only makes those struggling feel seen, but also educates other people on the topic. It is important to bring that same supportive nature into our daily lives and support friends and family and ask them how they are doing. Mental health is about how we live day-to-day and how we deal with any emotion or situation and how we can build healthy relationships with ourselves. It is important to value yourself and your body. We need to be mindful of how we treat ourselves.
It is also important to have empathy and understand the struggles of others, especially children. This is particularly key for those living through traumatic situations. According to ReliefWeb “Almost all of the estimated 1.2 million children in Gaza are in need of mental health and psychosocial support (UNICEF 14/07/2024). Problems include depression in children as young as five, anxiety, regressive behaviours (e.g. bedwetting in children as old as 14), and suicidal thoughts.”
Children amidst war and conflict experience severe trauma. It is an issue of extreme concerning as they seemingly have no escape from the death and destruction around them. We need to advocate for children and people struggling and facing crises in our communities and globally. Children are the most vulnerable members of our society. We must, as a society, combat the erasure of their childhood and youth amid their daily struggles.
[Samira Tahsoon is a senior at Young Women's Leadership School, and a youth activist and youth community organisor at Save the People USA]