Bullying Prevention Month Bullying has become a very important issue that deserves increased awareness and prevention. Bullying can lead to a number of long-term consequences including increased risk for mental health disorders and challenges socially and environmentally. It is common for bullying to lead to mental health challenges including depression and anxiety. The goal of Bullying Prevention Month is to “prevent childhood bullying—and promote kindness, acceptance, and inclusion (Pacer, 2022).” Although bullying is most commonly associated with and affecting young children, it is important to consider the occurrence and impact of bullying with adults as well. This can happen in the workplace and even among friends. There are many great ways to encourage a kind, accepting, and including environment for all. - Talk about bullying: Discuss what is inappropriate and unkind behavior. Also, review safety plans to address this behavior such as talking to a trusted adult as well as assertive communication with those who are bullying. Assertive communication can include setting boundaries and learning to say no. Another important aspect of this technique is to encourage others to be kind to each other.
- Encourage healthy communication: This can be exemplified through talking to each other more frequently and encouraging exploration of emotions as well as the highs and lows of the day. Normalize talking about hard things!
- Encourage empowering and self-esteem building qualities and activities: Help others to explore and do what they love and what makes them feel good about themselves. This can be scary for young children but with positive encouragement and support, children can develop into who they want to be!
- Model positive behavior: This is crucial in interactions with others. When in doubt follow the golden rule-treat others the way you would like to be treated!
(stopbullying.org, n.d.) ADHD Awareness What is ADHD? According to the DSM, ADHD is “persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development (DSM, 2017).” This disorder can include symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity later in life but requires symptoms to be present throughout childhood especially prior to age 12 (DSM, 2017). ADHD can be the effect of genetics as well as adverse environmental situations (ADHD Awareness Month Coalition, 2022) As of 2011, 9.5% of children in the U.S. were diagnosed with ADHD (ADHD awareness month coalition, 2022). Symptoms of inattention can include (DSM, 2017): - Failure to give close attention
- Difficulty remaining focused
- Inability to listen when spoken to directly
- Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- Loses things necessary for tasks or activities
- Easily distracted
- Forgetful
Symptoms of hyperactivity can include (DSM, 2017): - Fidgeting or tapping of hands or feet
- Restlessness especially difficulty remaining seated
- Inappropriate social behavior
- Unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
- Often “on the go”
- Talking excessively
- Interrupts or intrudes on others
The goals of ADHD awareness are to increase understanding of the diagnosis, encourage assessment and appropriate treatment, as well as share stories of encouragement and help. Due to ADHD, requiring a childhood history of presentation and behavior, assessment can be complicated and extensive. If you or someone you know is dealing with related issues, reach out to an experienced mental health professional who can assist in creating a plan for diagnosis and treatment. Visit the following resources to learn more about ADHD and to increase awareness in the community: - CHADD-Children and adults with ADHD
- ADDA-Attention Deficit Disorder Association
- Accommodations for students with ADHD
- ADHD questions and Answers – ADHD Awareness Month 2022
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