pronounce their name. If you’re unsure, ask – but be mindful that some young people may find it embarrassing to have to explain their name to someone else (132). If you mispronounce the young person’s name, apologise quickly and move on. Don’t dismiss their correction, and don’t over-apologise. Excessive apologising forces the young person to feel they should comfort you. Be culturally competent and safe Cultural competence Being culturally competent when providing Youth MHFA includes: – Being aware that a young person’s culture will shape how they understand both health and poor health – if you can, take the time to learn about the culture of the young person in front of you – Being aware that specific cultural beliefs that surround poor mental health in the young person’s community may differ from what you are used to – Learning how poor mental health is described in the young person’s community – if you can, take the time to learn what words and ideas are used to talk about the symptoms or behaviours – Being aware of what concepts, behaviours, or language are taboo – if you can, take the time to learn what might cause shame – Asking questions about their experience with empathy, compassion, and patience (135) Some forms of verbal and non-verbal communication are appropriate in certain cultures, while others are not appropriate. For instance, some individuals may regard prolonged eye contact as rude. Some cultures encourage the use of silence while others are embarrassed or made to feel awkward by it. In some Islamic cultures, silence may mean concern for privacy. In French and Spanish cultures, silence is a sign of agreement. In some cultures, it
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