The Healthier the Children, the Healthier The Parents

It takes place every year and brings to light issues surrounding the social and emotional wellbeing and development of children in the earliest years of life. 

This year’s theme is ‘including infants in children and young people’s mental health’. It is no secret that humans are social creatures, and in all cultures this fact is also true for infants. In fact, research has shown that babies are able to emotionally connect to their caregivers from their earliest days.

Also, newborns are capable of recognizing and imitating facial expressions and emotional responses. Infants also have an innate ability to learn how their caregivers’ actions relate to their own.

With so much evidence pointing to early emotional and social development, it is important to be mindful of laying the correct foundation for children in their early years. Children are like sponges, they absorb everything around them. It is important to take into consideration the type of environment and social exposure you place children in.

Although children and young people’s mental health refers to the mental health of all children from 0-18, it is usually focused on older children. This awareness week is a great opportunity for mental health workers and parents to think about how to include infants in children and young people’s mental health policies, services and strategies.

We at PsyMood believe that mental health awareness and wellbeing is important in all stages of life. We encourage a dialogue to share more information about the need for infants’ mental health, and what factors can negatively or positively impact development.

Use the hashtags #IMHAW21 #IncludingInfants on your social media and join the discussion!

If you feel the need to talk to someone about your mental health, PsyMood is here for you. Our mental health specialists can speak your language and understand your culture. Sign up today to speak with a specialist. We offer sessions at any time, anyplace!

Talk with a specialist that understands you. Sign up today for a free 15-minute session.