As we welcome the month of May, we also recognize it as Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a time to focus on the importance of mental, emotional, and social well-being, especially for our youth.
Here in Occoneechee Council, we are dedicated to equipping Scouts, leaders, and families with the tools and resources they need to foster a healthy, supportive Scouting environment. This commitment not only strengthens our community but also aligns with national efforts to address the growing need for mental health awareness and support.
Need to talk to someone about local mental health resources or help for your Scout(s)? Email our Special Needs committee.
Why Mental Heath Matters in Scouting
The past several years have brought unprecedented challenges for youth and families, with rising rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mental health challenges among young people have increased significantly, and suicide remains a leading cause of death for youth ages 10-24. Scouting plays a vital role in providing a safe, supportive space where young people can build resilience, confidence, and strong social connections-all of which are protective factors for mental health.
Local Resources in Occoneechee Council
Occoneechee Council is proud to offer several key resources and training opportunities to support mental health:
Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA):
Our council has strongly promoted Youth Mental Health First Aid, particularly through in-person training sessions at the Poe Center in Raleigh. These courses, available for both adults and youth, teach participants how to recognize the signs of mental health challenges, provide initial support, and connect individuals to appropriate professional help. The flexibility of in-person or hybrid blended learning ensures that everyone can access this valuable training.QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention Training:
QPR is a two-hour, evidence-based training that focuses on suicide prevention. It teaches participants how to recognize the warning signs of suicide, ask the right questions, and guide individuals to professional help. QPR has been introduced during Camp Durant summer sessions for adults, making it a practical and accessible resource for our Scouting community.
National Resources from Scouting America
Scouting America has made mental health a top priority, offering a range of resources and initiatives to support mental, emotional, and social health (MESH):
MESH (Mental, Emotional, and Social Health) Planning:
Scouting America encourages councils to use the MESH Planning Template to proactively address mental health at camps and events. This includes identifying local mental health resources, training staff, and developing crisis response plans to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all participants.Camp Staff Mental Health Training:
New national training materials have been developed to help camp staff recognize and support mental health needs among campers and peers. These resources ensure that staff are prepared to respond to mental health challenges and connect individuals to appropriate help when needed.Safety Moments:
Scouting America’s “Safety Moments” are brief, practical guides designed to be used at the start of Scout meetings. Topics include Depression, Psychological First Aid, Resilience, and Youth Suicide Prevention. Incorporating these Safety Moments into regular meetings helps normalize conversations about mental health and provides Scouts with tools to support themselves and their peers.
Access these Safety Moments here: Scouting America Safety Moments
Additional Resources from Jana Marie Foundation
Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA):
An 8-hour virtual or in-person course for adults to identify and respond to youth mental health or substance use challenges, including a 5-step action plan and adolescent development basics.QPR Gatekeeper Training:
A 1.5–2 hour session open to all, teaching how to recognize suicide warning signs, ask questions, persuade someone to seek help, and refer them to resources. Practical for anyone working with youth, including Scout leaders.CALM (Counseling on Access to Lethal Means):
Focuses on helping adults reduce access to lethal means for individuals at risk of suicide. Most useful for supporting individuals or families, rather than group settings like Scout units.
Visit the Jana Marie Foundation website for course schedules, registration, and more information on programs and resource
The Power of Community and Connection
Scouting is more than just outdoor adventures and skill-building-it’s about creating a sense of belonging and community. Research shows that participation in Scouting can boost self-esteem, foster resilience, and provide a network of supportive peers and adults. By prioritizing mental health, we help ensure that every Scout feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
How You Can Help
There are many ways to get involved and support mental health in Occoneechee Council:
Attend Training: Sign up for Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) or QPR training through the council or local partners.
Incorporate Safety Moments: Use Safety Moments at the start of Scout meetings to spark meaningful conversations about mental health.
Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with local and national mental health resources, including hotlines and professional support services.
Encourage Openness: Foster a culture of openness and acceptance where Scouts feel comfortable discussing their feelings and seeking help when needed.
Together We Can Make a Difference
Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of mental well-being and to take action to support our Scouts, leaders, and families. By leveraging local and national resources, we can build a stronger, healthier Scouting community where everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Let’s make mental health a priority in Occoneechee Council-this May and every month. Together, we can help Scouts develop the resilience and confidence they need to navigate life’s challenges and succeed in all their endeavors.
