Mental Health & Suicide
Many kids in Norwalk were struggling with their depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal ideation... even before COVID.
Scroll down to see our infobrief, or click below to download our November 2020 slideshow about youth mental health trends, with updates on what's happening in Norwalk during COVID.
Mental Health Warning Signs
1-minute video by NAMI
Mental Health in Norwalk During COVID
Mental health section of TNP's 1/19/22 presentation for parents. Presenters: Gail Melanson, Mid-Fairfield Child Guidance Center, and Denique Weidema-Lewis, Norwalk ACTS. (12 minutes)
Click picture below to download 2-page infographic
What to know
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Adults may feel embarrassed to talk about anxiety or depression, but that stigma prevents people from seeking help. It's important to talk openly about mental health and stress with your family.
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Mental health struggles affect 1 in 5 of us each year. Acknowledge when you yourself are struggling. Role-model positive coping skills like reaching out to a friend, going for a walk, exercising, or meditating/praying. Recognize the value of counseling.
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Middle school is often a time when depression & anxiety develop. Children who do not have support and learn coping skills may turn to alcohol, drugs, or self-harm. Kids need to be have a couple of trusted adults they can go to for help.
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Learn the warning signs of a mental health crisis & how to help. Take a Mental Health First Aid or other training program in Norwalk or in the region.
Warning signs
Someone in your family may be struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental illness. Signs may include any or all of the following:
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Mood swings, sadness, apathy or anger
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changes in eating (either too much or too little)
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changes in sleep (can't sleep or can't get out of bed)
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racing thoughts / anxiety that won't turn off even at night
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isolating themselves from others
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pressured speech
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lack of interest in usual activities
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disorganization, inability to function as usual
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self-harm
To check up on your/family's mental health, take a free screening here. Kids can visit the school social worker or go to the School-Based Health Center. If you're worried about how someone is doing, ASK them, listen to them, tell them you care, and help them get help.
What do I need to know about mental health?
Mental Health FAQ
-
Adults may feel embarrassed to talk about anxiety or depression, but that stigma prevents people from seeking help. It's important to talk openly about mental health and stress with your family.
-
Mental health struggles affect 1 in 5 of us each year. Acknowledge when you yourself are struggling. Role-model positive coping skills like reaching out to a friend, going for a walk, exercising, or meditating/praying. Recognize the value of counseling.
-
Middle school is often a time when depression & anxiety develop. Children who do not have support and learn coping skills may turn to alcohol, drugs, or self-harm. Kids need to be have a couple of trusted adults they can go to for help.
-
Learn the warning signs of a mental health crisis & how to help. Take a Mental Health First Aid or other training program in Norwalk or in the region.
