It’s been a busy month! May is an opportunity to shine a light on prevention through different lenses. Mental Health Awareness Month and Children’s Mental Health Week provide a strong framework to understand the complex factors that can impact a person’s wellbeing. It is never too early to support your own health and the health of those around you because as we know, a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment helps improve and maintain mental well-being.
This month is also Foster Care Awareness Month, lifting up the message of this year's theme: Strengthening Minds. Uplifting Families. Culture, identity, and lived experience must always be a part of the conversations with children, youth, and their caregivers about their mental health needs while they are engaged with the foster care system. Visit the PCA America website to check out an array of resources and tools for improving and maintaining mental well-being.
Teacher Appreciation Week offered us the chance to celebrate the dedication and advocacy of teachers who are critical partners in prevention for families, creating a sense of safety and belonging for their students that extends well beyond the classroom.
From one parent to another, I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful Mother's Day this month. Of course, one day is not enough to truly recognize the incredible commitment that parents and caregivers have made and continue to make to their families throughout the year, showing up day in and day out to nurture, protect, and guide their children. It is only when we come together that we’re able to change the narrative around child abuse and neglect and stop it before it happens. Prevention is possible because of all of you.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Melissa Merrick
President and CEO, Prevent Child Abuse America