Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a crucial time to focus on the importance of mental health and well-being. It's a period for us to reflect on our own mental health, support those around us, and recognise the significance of mental wellness in our daily lives. At Stepping Stones Care, we are deeply committed to promoting mental health awareness and providing therapeutic care for our young people and staff. Two of our dedicated team members, Clinical Lead Sarah Stringfellow and Counselling Therapist Liam Barrett-Hawkins, share their insights on the importance of mental health and the approaches we take to support it.

Paying Attention to Mental Health and Well-being

Sarah Stringfellow emphasises the need to regularly check in with ourselves and others. She states, “Life's busy, people are busy, and everything is fast. It's really important that we actually stop and check in with ourselves and with other people.” In our fast-paced world, it is easy to overlook the mental health needs of those around us, as well as our own. Sarah highlights that therapeutic care is essential for addressing these needs, especially for our young people who have experienced trauma.

While we can't change past experiences, Sarah notes that understanding their impact is crucial for supporting our young people's current and future well-being. Research indicates that having just one supportive adult can significantly aid in a child's recovery from trauma. At Stepping Stones Care, we pride ourselves on having a team dedicated to being that support system. Sarah shares her personal strategies for maintaining her mental well-being, such as engaging in mindfulness activities and exercise. These practices help her stay grounded and present, allowing her to support others effectively.

The Power of Listening

Liam Barrett-Hawkins offers a different perspective on supporting young people's mental health. He believes that adults often feel pressured to provide the right answers and advice to children. However, he argues that young people need to feel heard and accepted for what they are experiencing. “I think what the young people are needing is to actually feel heard for what they're going through. Because what I believe is they're the experts in their own lives,” Liam explains.

By listening and validating their feelings, we empower young people to find their own solutions and build resilience. This approach fosters a sense of self-confidence, helping them navigate life's challenges more effectively. Liam's perspective underscores the importance of creating a supportive environment where young people feel safe to express themselves.

Building a Supportive Community

At Stepping Stones Care, we recognise the importance of a strong support network for both our young people and staff. Sarah and Liam's insights remind us that mental health care is a collective effort. By fostering a culture of openness, empathy, and support, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those we care for.

As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, let us commit to regularly checking in with ourselves and others, listening without judgment, and providing unwavering support. Whether it's through therapeutic care, open communication, or personal mindfulness practices, every effort counts in promoting mental well-being.

Remember, mental health is not just a topic for May but a year-round priority. By making it a part of our daily lives, we can create a healthier, more compassionate world for everyone.

You can view the full interviews with Sarach and Liam right here: https://www.youtube.com/@SteppingStoneCareUK