Nationally, Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week is recognized between May 7 and May 13, 2023. On May 11, 2023, to raise awareness and highlight the significance of the conversation, the David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health (DLC) will host several online events for community participation, with support from Naples Children & Education Foundation. Presentations are free and offered virtually. For more information, including registration for these free-of-charge virtual discussions, please visit DLC’s website.
Children’s mental health is a priority topic for Future Ready Collier, and network partners work diligently to identify the circumstances that contribute to mental and behavioral health challenges, implement required services, and holistically ensure that students are acknowledged for their individual needs. As a member of the Future Ready Collier network, and a leading voice in Southwest Florida advocating for and delivering hands-on mental health support systems, DLC regularly provides free community programming, trainings, and related opportunities to learn and come together.
The presentations currently scheduled for May 11, 2023, including the times being offered, include:
Building the Foundation: Infant Mental Health
8:30am-9:15am
1:00pm-1:45pm
This presentation will feature an overview of the cognitive changes that occur in the brains of children ages birth to 3 years old. Participants will learn about 10 developmental leaps and strategies to incorporate into their interaction with young children. Self-care tips and emotion management techniques will be discussed and additional resources, both nationally and locally, will be provided.
Shining the Light on Youth Mental Health
9:45am-10:30am
2:30pm-3:15pm
This presentation will review statistics and data related to the mental health of children and adolescents in the United States and will address common challenges for youth, including most prevalent diagnoses. Participants will learn how to recognize warning signs, address concerns, and utilize resources available in the community.
Let’s Talk About It!
11:00am-11:45am
4:00pm-4:45pm
This presentation discusses some of the biggest safety concerns among youth: social media, substance use and violence. Participants will learn about prevalence data and trends, and how to have preventative conversations with children and adolescents related to these topics.