MetroFamily Magazine September October 2023

FAMILY MENTAL WELLNESS

Because so many protective experiences happen in the school setting, ODMHSAS works with the Oklahoma State Department of Education to provide Project Aware grants for behavioral health aids to support teachers in the classroom. These individuals help consider what needs children are communicating through their behavior and how those needs can be met. Plus, they encourage classroom environments that are focused on meeting students’ relational needs before academic expectations are put in place. “It isn’t possible to achieve academic outcomes that we want to see without addressing social-emotional needs,” said Haney. “We have to meet those emotional needs first so that kids are ready to learn and take in new information.” In order to continue to reduce ACEs from a community level, Haney advises government, businesses and organizations to provide (and families to advocate for): • Improved access to high-quality childcare so parents can provide for their families • Investment in early childhood education programs and strong primary and secondary schools • Access to affordable, safe housing • Programs that promote connection and relationship-building for parents and children • Social and economic supports that aid families who are facing financial hardships, limited educational opportunities and other conditions that put families at risk for ACEs

• Enhanced youth connections to caring adults and mentors and opportunities to build skills for managing emotions • Family-friendly policies in the workplace, like paid family leave and flexible work schedules • Access to substance use treatment and other parenting interventions, and reduced stigma around parents seeking help for mental health challenges, suicidal thoughts or substance use When the community as a whole focuses on supporting families, the ripple effects of positive change extend beyond just our children. “The way to address ACEs is through multigenerational care, not only for the child, but also for the adults,” said Haney. “And the benefit in reducing ACEs is not just for children. When parents focus on those protective factors and positive experiences, they also find purpose, meaning and joy.” Editor’s note: This article is part of a 10-month series of articles and podcasts with 988 Mental Health Lifeline. Find the full series at metrofamilymagazine.com/mental-health.