Last night we enjoyed an insightful discussion about Mental Health Awareness for our May Community Conversations. Our moderator Cherri Rowe was joined by advertising professional and Managing Director at Capella Partners, Julie Jennings, along with Owner & Lead Therapist at Taylor Made Child & Family Solutions LLC, Erica Taylor, LCSW-S.
Julie is a 20-year advertising and retail professional. With an extensive agency background, Julie has a depth of knowledge around traditional, digital and social marketing as well as public relations, business-to-business and retail sales. She is the mother of two boys (11 and 7) both gifted with special needs including ADHD, dysgraphia and speech delays.
Erica is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a bachelor’s and master’s degree from The University of Texas at Arlington. With over 12 years of experience working with children, adults, and families in a variety of settings and with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief interventions.
They discussed many key points such as the difference between mental health and mental illness, how to have hard conversations with your younger ones, what warning signs to look for, and so much more!
Here are some of their take-a-aways:
- Exercise a lot of patience with your younger ones
- Kids will always tell you if you just ask them what’s going
- Don’t be afraid to ask about resources for your kids’ at school
They also discussed some warning signs to look out for in your child in case they aren’t fully communicating how they feel. Always observe them, especially when they come home from school. Take note when they are acting out; it is usually something else that they’re trying to communicate.
Teens also need just as much attention as the younger kids. Always talk to their teachers. Considering they spend most of their days with them, you can gain much insight as a parent.
Resources:
- Taylormade Child & Family Solutions LLC
- Julie Jennings – jennings@gmail.com
For the full video visit our youtube channel here!
