Minnesota 4-H State Ambassadors connect mental health education to advocacy

Each year, the Minnesota 4-H State Ambassadors select a statewide service theme to engage all Minnesota 4-H youth in learning about a community issue and taking steps to make a positive, collective impact. 

The 2024-2025 statewide service theme is “Mental Health and Wellbeing” because mental health affects everyone. 

Every month, the 4-H State Ambassadors will share a topic that provides opportunities to learn about and take action on mental health and wellbeing through service.

May: Educational and leadership paths in mental health advocacy

For the month of May, the Minnesota 4-H State Ambassadors are addressing our statewide service theme of mental health and wellbeing through the topic of promoting educational and certification opportunities. Mental health awareness and education are crucial components of fostering a healthier, more informed society.

Why leveling up your understanding is important

• Breaking the stigma: Mental health education plays a key role in reducing stigma. By understanding mental health better, we can engage in conversations that normalize seeking help, promoting wellbeing and fostering empathy.
• Early intervention: The sooner a mental health issue is identified, the better the chance for intervention and support. Education can help recognize warning signs and provide access to early resources, whether for oneself or for others.
• Improved support systems: Strong support structures from family members, friends or community members, can reduce stress, increase resilience and improve overall mental health outcomes. Educated and equipped "villages of care" is key to supporting others, protecting emotional health and responding to crises.
• Empowerment: By leveling up our understanding, we empower ourselves to take action. People who understand mental health are more likely to seek help when needed and advocate for supportive policies and services.
• Developing lifelong skills: Mental health is not just a concern in times of crisis. Educating ourselves about mental wellbeing can lead to lifelong skills in stress management, emotional regulation and resilience.

Educational resources for youth under 18 years of age

Whether you’re a young person seeking to understand mental health for yourself or improve your communication skills with friends and peers, there are numerous opportunities to elevate your knowledge and advocate for mental health and wellbeing in your communities. 

• All Feelings Matter: In this lesson, youth in grades K-2 learn that all feelings matter by naming different emotions and creating a feeling monster that showcases those feelings.
• Mental Wellbeing: A series of seven lessons designed to open up the conversation with middle school-aged youth about mental health and wellness, handling emotions and figuring out who we are as individuals.
• Stress Management: This lesson plan introduces the idea of stress. Youth learn how stress affects us, the importance of seeking help when feeling overwhelmed and stress management techniques to cope with stress. Ideal for grades 6-12.
• Social Emotional Wellbeing: A Guide to Support Youth Thriving: This collection of resources helps youth reflect, connect and thrive while managing the effects of stress and loss. Designed for youth in grades 3-8.

Educational resources for adults 18 years of age and older

Adults who take the time to educate themselves about today’s youth experiences and the challenges they face are better equipped to respond empathetically and effectively when crises arise. This proactive approach also empowers adults with the knowledge to build safe, inclusive environments that foster belonging and support for young people on any given day. 

Here are some opportunities that adults can pursue: 

• Changing Our Mental and Emotional Trajectory (COMET) training is a two-hour interactive training that equips participants with the skills to reach out meaningfully and supportively to those struggling with mental health challenges, particularly in rural, farming, urban and suburban communities. It empowers individuals to initiate conversations using a simple, evidence-based seven-question guide, fostering supportive connections without expecting them to "fix" the situation and providing resources for further help when needed.
• Children's mental health case studies - Explore a robust story about a child experiencing mental health struggles. Learn how professionals and other adults surrounding the child and family can offer support and research-based interventions.
• Children's mental health e-reviews - Each online eReview issue summarizes research and gives practical ideas for use in community settings.
• Teens online and social media use - This resource discusses the impact of social media on teens, highlighting both its benefits and risks and provides parents with tips for guiding their teens in using these platforms safely.

Certification and education in mental health are key components of developing a society that supports the mental wellbeing of all its members. From youth to adults, there are numerous opportunities to increase mental health literacy, become better equipped to support others and advocate for systemic change. Whether you're starting early or enhancing your knowledge as an adult, investing in mental health education is an important step toward creating a more supportive and understanding community.

By becoming more informed, we all contribute to breaking down the barriers surrounding mental health and ensuring that everyone has access to the care and support they need.