SWIPE AWAY THE STIGMA CAMPAIGN
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V2
V2 is a dedicated organization with a long-standing commitment to supporting youth in its community. With over two decades of experience, V2 has developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by young people, particularly in the areas of mental health and well-being. In recent years, V2 has observed a troubling increase in rates of anxiety and depression among youth, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support and intervention.
THE
CAMPAIGN
In response to the increasing rates of depression, anxiety and suicide ideation, V2 has launched the "Swipe Away the Stigma" mental health campaign. This innovative campaign is designed to educate and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health by engaging youth and adults via information dissemination and educational resources. By encouraging open conversations and providing information and resources to essential mental health support, V2 aims to create a more inclusive and understanding environment where every young person feels empowered to seek help and support.
WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH?
Mental health refers to a person's overall psychological well-being, encompassing emotional, psychological, and social aspects of their life. It affects how individuals think, feel, and behave, influencing how they handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Mental health is a crucial component of overall health and is more than just the absence of mental illness; it also involves the presence of positive qualities such as resilience, the ability to cope with adversity, and the capacity to function effectively in daily life
Mental health is an everyone issue because it affects all aspects of our lives and is integral to overall well-being, regardless of age, background, or circumstance. Just as physical health is important for everyone, so too is mental health, which influences how we think, feel, and interact with the world around us.
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Kevin Breel: Confessions of a Depressed Comic at TEDxKids@Ambleside
Mental health stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes that surround mental health conditions and individuals who experience them. Stigma can be a significant barrier to seeking help, receiving appropriate treatment, and achieving overall well-being.
WHAT
IS STIGMA?
WHY is it IMPORTANT?
Reducing mental health stigma is essential to create a supportive and inclusive society that encourages open dialogue, seeks early intervention, and supports individuals on their mental health journeys. It requires a collective effort to challenge stereotypes, promote education, and provide a safe space for everyone to seek help without fear of judgment or discrimination.
As a community member, you can play a vital role in reducing the stigma around mental health. Here are several ways you can contribute:
Educate Yourself and Others
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Learn About Mental Health: Familiarize yourself with common mental health conditions, their symptoms, and how they affect individuals. This knowledge will help you understand and empathize with those experiencing mental health challenges.
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Share Accurate Information: When you come across misconceptions or myths about mental health, gently correct them with accurate information. Sharing facts and personal experiences can help dispel stigma.
Use Supportive Language
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Choose Words Carefully: Use person-first language, such as “a person with depression” rather than “a depressed person.” Avoid derogatory terms or labels that can perpetuate stigma.
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Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster an environment where talking about mental health is normalized. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to share their feelings without fear of judgment.
Challenge Stigmatizing Behaviors
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Speak Up Against Stigma: If you hear someone making stigmatizing comments or jokes about mental health, kindly speak up and explain why such remarks can be harmful.
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Model Acceptance and Compassion: Show empathy and understanding towards those experiencing mental health issues. Your behavior can set an example for others to follow.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
RESOURCESFOR
TEENS
Here are the top mental health resources for teens:
Crisis Text Line
A free, 24/7 text service that provides support for anyone in crisis. Teens can text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor who can help them through a difficult moment.
Teen Line
A confidential hotline where teens can talk or text with trained peer counselors about anything from anxiety and depression to relationship problems. Call 1-800-852-8336 or text TEEN to 839863.
NAMI Teens & Young Adults
nami.org/your-journey/kids-teens-and-young-adults/
The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides a wide range of resources tailored for teens and young adults, including educational materials, guides for managing mental health, and information on how to support friends.
Seize the Awkward
seizetheawkward.org
A campaign that encourages young people to talk about mental health with friends and provides tips on how to start those conversations. It includes videos, guides, and personal stories.
These resources provide a mix of crisis support, ongoing mental health education, and peer-based encouragement, making them valuable tools for promoting teen mental wellness.