Why are so many youth in trouble with anxiety, depression, ADHD, are overly medicated, with the rate of self-harm behaviours going up exponentially? Why are none of the current approaches to mental health disease working? Because we are asking the wrong question: It is not why the BEHAVIOURS, but why the overwhelming MENTAL and EMOTIONAL PAIN?

Our responsibility as adults

There is a concerning upward trend in mental health issues, and our youth are suffering in silence because they are not taught that it is a necessity to speak up about their anxiety and depression.  They are not given the tools and resources to understand the sources from which their mental and emotional pain stem from. As responsible adults, it is imperative we have understanding and awareness about why this is happening and where it comes from to create lasting change, cultivate mental health literacy, and help prevent self-destructive, self-harm behaviours. Mismanaged anxiety and depression are the #1 causes of suicide and suicide is the #1 cause of death for youth between the ages of 15-24. The signs are not always overt, but suicide is preventable with early intervention.

Magic Beyond Words

Maroochy North Shore Lions is partnering with Jazzmyn Lyon of “Magic beyond Words” (MBW) to present this upcoming workshop to help support the wellbeing of our youth. Jazzmyn has a Master of Health Science, is a Speech Pathologist and Wellbeing Facilitator with over 14 years of extensive experience in providing these techniques in the school system in Canada.

MBW is a set of different workshops and talks presented to adults and youth about the power of prevention and early intervention. Awareness is key, and given the sensitive nature of this topic, it must be addressed in an innovative and constructive way, which is why MBW works. The underlying message is the same for adults and youth, as we all need to hear the same message but in a different way. As adults, we are the root (cause), and the kids are the tree (effect). When we understand ourselves better, we will understand our youth better, be even more efficacious educators and parents, and therefore will be able to help our youth in the ways they need.

The main topic of this Workshop is “Understanding the Mind”, which targets the main risk factor, mental ill health (anxiety and depression).

In this workshop, Jazzmyn will discuss:

·      Criteria to recognise those at risk

·      The origins of a troubled mind and techniques to free the mind from self-destructive, negative thinking

·      Practical and supportive tools to create a healthy mindset

·      What shapes the personality

·      Understanding where thoughts come from and how to manage them in a positive way

RSVP

Please RSVP here or email maroochynorthshore_lions@hotmail.com ASAP to confirm your attendance, and the names of any other staff or parents that may be joining you. Limited spots are available.

Certificates of completion for professional development will be provided.

We believe that the wellbeing of youth is everyone's responsibility and that together we can make a difference.  Your support is very much appreciated, and we look forward to seeing you there.