The conversation has been getting bolder and louder over the part decade or so on Mental Health. Businesses are now putting in place some training around starting and managing a conversation when a change is noticed. We know a lot about self-care and the importance of observing our self-care techniques as ‘non-negotiable’.
However, with the report published below, we can see how earlier intervention is essential. Check out the link below… the stats are shameful.
1 in 9 of children in full-time education aged 5 to 15 has a diagnosable mental health condition. Maybe read that again.
In 2017 there were 226 recorded suicides of people in full-time education including primary schools. Again – shocking.
We know education about road safety has reduced road deaths. We know regular brushing of our teeth reduces teeth decay. We start learning these things at home before we’ve event gone to school.
Shouldn’t parents be talking openly to their children about feelings, kindness to others, it’s ok not to feel ok and it’s a strength to alway talk about our feelings? Surely this would start to normalise mental health.
Of course not every parent is equipped to provide this guidance.
Schools have a lot on their curriculum. Considering the huge cost to society, business, NHS, communities, families etc, isn’t it now worth making part of Ofsted’s school inspection look at the provision of mental health resources in our schools to nourish the future generations making them more robust in dealing with life issues?
The earlier the intervention the better the recovery.
Do we make a difference now or wait for the time bomb to stop ticking and just explode?
Jane James's Consultancy Limited 