What do you as a young person do over long breaks from school? For some young people we may hang out with friends, spend more time online/on our phones, vacation with our family, etc. Below are some other ways to unwind, relax, and focus on our mental health:
Practice relaxation techniques…
Keep moving…
Be involved…at home or in the community
Get your parents/guardians to play…
Relaxing Is Good For Your Mind & Body
Relaxation techniques are a great way to center yourself. Meditation, mindful breathing and yoga are great ways to ease stress and relax our minds. When it comes to physical relaxation create healthy sleeping habits by unplugging (from electronics) periodically during the day and before you go to bed. This technique can help quiet your mind and allow your mind to relax before you go to bed. When you practice healthy sleep habits, it supports our mental well-being and physical development by improving productivity and overall quality of life. Everyone can benefit from quality sleep and rest.
Connecting
We know that helping out is probably the least fun thing to do for young people, but it can be an important time to bond with our parents/caregivers. Needing to chat about upcoming events, struggling with a situation that you need advice with? There’s no better time to chat than when you are cooking dinner together, running errands or just hanging out together.
Getting your parents to play a board game, shoot some hoops, take a walk at the mall or in the neighborhood, or go sledding are ways you can have fun together! For parents, spend time doing what your children love like listening to music, doing art, hanging out, or playing a sport! It is more important than ever for youth to remain connected. Taking the time to show your care and are genuinely interested creates bonds and memories to last a lifetime. The bond you create with with a young person in your life will enhance their confidence in you!
Having a Trusted Adult, you can turn to like a parent, coach, a mentor, or your favorite teacher, can create a support system in both good and bad times. Trusted Adults are people that make you feel safe and people you can trust, no matter how embarrassing a problem is or difficult.
Things to Think About…
Who is a Trusted Adult (or your go to adult) that you can talk to about anything?
Do you know what resources are available to you locally as a young person?
You Are Not Alone!
IMatter– Resource for young people to connect to Mental Health professionals
988- Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
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