By Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera

Each year during the first week of October, the National Alliance on Mental Illness recognizes Mental Illness Awareness Week. With that observance and Children’s Health Day on Oct. 2, this is an appropriate time of year to acknowledge how millions of Americans – including children – are living with a mental health condition, and that mental illness affects everyone directly or indirectly related to that individual – including family, friends and coworkers.

Unfortunately, in recent years our nation has seen a significant increase in youth mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. For parents and other adults supporting a child with a mental health condition, there are many challenges to overcome. That is why Erie County is working diligently with providers in our community, and our Department of Mental Health to develop a smartphone app as a resource for parents and caregivers.

In addition, the Erie County Office of Health Equity is offering youth mental health first aid training sessions to the public. This training is for adults, 18 years and older, which will give them the tools they need to provide immediate and practical support to youth ages 12 to 18 years old who are experiencing a mental health challenge. The course is free though registration is required.

Hundreds of county residents have participated in mental health first aid this year, which has taught them to have productive conversations about mental health and substance use and to guide others toward appropriate care. Contact healthequity@erie.gov or visit www.erie.gov/mhfa for information.

Another support network addressing youth mental health is the Erie 1 BOCES SMART collaborative (Supporting Mental Health by Advocating for Resources Together). This initiative brings together educators, community agencies and county government representatives to share best practices across school districts and personnel to work together on integrated solutions. As a group, we meet regularly to openly share resources available in Erie County that are available to school districts and families in their districts.

Nearly 80% of chronic mental health conditions emerge in childhood. While mental health concerns are frequently seen in public schools, the pandemic’s combination of isolation plus other mental health issues has intensified the need for added supports. Erie County government has recognized this and has stepped forward to respond.

As our children head back to school, I encourage parents and caregivers to utilize these resources and to be vigilant in monitoring their child for mental health condition signs and symptoms. It is important that we work together to support youth mental health and to create a world where young people can thrive.