How Can We Better Support Our Young People in Today's Society?

Today I want to take a moment to shed light on a topic that touches the very fabric of our society—mental health among children and adolescents in Australia. Our young ones, the tender saplings in the garden of life, are facing challenges that cast shadows on their vibrant spirits. It is with a heart full of compassion that we delve into understanding the prevalence of mental disorders such as Depressive Disorder, Conduct Disorder, and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder among 4–17-year-olds in this beautiful land.

The methodical approach taken to uncover the layers of this issue involved the use of the parent-version of the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children Version IV, alongside the Child Behaviour Checklist. These tools, complemented by standard questionnaires assessing health-related quality of life and service utilization, painted a picture that calls for our collective attention. Among the findings, it was discovered that 14% of children and adolescents bear the weight of mental health problems. This revelation is not just a number but a reflection of souls in need of understanding, support, and healing. These young beings are not only grappling with their internal storms but are also at an increased risk for suicidal behaviour and are navigating the turbulent waters of life with less than adequate support, as only a quarter of those in need had sought professional help in the six months prior to the survey.

As we stand at this crossroads, looking into the eyes of our future generation, the call to action is clear. The balance between clinical interventions for individual families and broader, population-focused interventions requires our mindful consideration. The high prevalence of mental health issues among our youth highlights the urgency for approaches that not only address individual needs but also foster a supportive environment that nurtures the holistic well-being of our communities.

As the writer of this article and the read, we understand that the path to healing and transformation is often perceived as straightforward—simply apply the solution and watch the problem dissipate. However, the persistent challenges faced in achieving holistic wellness beg the question: If the solutions are so simple, why do the problems persist? The answer lies in the approach adopted by mainstream clinical support systems, which, unfortunately, lean heavily toward intervention rather than prevention. The prevailing model of healthcare, as sanctioned by our government, is analogous to applying a bandage to a deep wound without treating the underlying cause. While intervention is necessary and can be life-saving in acute situations, this approach is fundamentally flawed when it comes to fostering long-term health and well-being. True healing requires a holistic perspective that addresses not just the symptoms, but the root causes of imbalance. This includes considering the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual's life. However, the current healthcare paradigm prioritizes quick fixes and pharmaceutical interventions, neglecting the preventive measures that could mitigate the onset of illness and promote sustained health.

For me, I believe it deeply goes beyond the surface-level treatment of symptoms. This is one of the core reasons I established Gaianostics. We aim to raise the vibration of the Earth and transform the mindsets of future generations by advocating for a shift from intervention to prevention. This involves educating individuals about the importance of holistic healing modalities, lifestyle changes, and the profound impact of mental and emotional well-being on physical health. By fostering awareness and providing unique healing modalities, we support individuals on their journey to holistic wellness, advocating for a system that nurtures healing from the ground up. In doing so, we challenge the status quo, advocating for a world where health care is truly about caring for health in all its dimensions, before the onset of illness.

At GAIAnostics, we are deeply committed to the holistic well-being of every individual journeying towards healing and self-discovery. Our approach transcends the conventional, weaving together ancient practices and modern insights to foster a profound connection between the mind, body, and spirit. As we navigate through the complexities of our modern world, the need for inner peace and balance has never been more critical. This understanding is at the heart of our teachings in meditation, yoga, and journaling - each a pathway to healing, offering a sanctuary for reflection, growth, and transformation. In addition to these transformative practices, GAIAnostics proudly offers a supportive community through our FREE (available by donations) advocacy, holistic counseling, peer support, mentoring, and educational opportunities for our youth. Recognizing that healing is a journey best embarked upon with support, we are dedicated to providing a compassionate and nurturing environment. Our programs are designed to empower individuals, providing them with the tools and knowledge to explore holistic healing modalities. Remarkably, we are committed to making this journey accessible to all, offering opportunities to learn these modalities free of charge. This initiative is a testament to our belief in the universal right to healing and the potential within each person to achieve a state of complete well-being.

In our journey towards raising the vibration of the earth, it's crucial to guide our youth towards healthy lifestyle choices, including moderation in alcohol and substance use. Open conversations about these topics are essential in fostering responsible decision-making. At GAIAnostics, we are committed to supporting each individual on their path to healing and growth. By implementing these supportive practices in our community, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our young people, shaping a future that is bright, balanced, and brimming with possibility. Improving the mental health of our young people truly starts with me and YOU!

By nurturing the holistic well-being of our community, especially the younger generation, who are the torchbearers of tomorrow's enlightened society. Recognizing the profound impact of small gestures, we advocate for community involvement that not only uplifts individuals but also harmonizes collective consciousness. Here, we share eight transformative ways to support and inspire our young people, ensuring their journey is filled with purpose, connection, and wellness.

Firstly, extending a helping hand to a single parent in your neighborhood can set a powerful example of community solidarity and compassion. This act of kindness not only alleviates the challenges faced by single parents but also fosters a nurturing environment for their children. In parallel, encouraging our youth to engage in activities that spark joy and purpose is crucial. Whether it's through art, sports, or volunteering, these experiences enrich their lives, boosting their mental health and self-esteem. Additionally, learning new skills to navigate tough times is invaluable. By embracing practices such as mindfulness, journaling, or simply setting achievable goals, young individuals can cultivate resilience and a positive outlook on life.

Creating meaningful connections is the cornerstone of emotional well-being. Encouraging young people to nurture relationships with friends, family, and even pets can offer them a sense of belonging and support. Activities like sharing meals, enjoying nature, or engaging in hobbies together can strengthen these bonds. Moreover, emphasizing the importance of adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and a nutritious diet are fundamental steps towards holistic health. These habits lay the foundation for a balanced life, fueling not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. You can support young people by leading by example, illuminating the path for our youth, demonstrating the strength in vulnerability and the power of emotional intelligence. It's crucial for young people to grasp the essence of emotions – what they are, how to recognize them, and, most importantly, how to navigate and regulate them. In a world that often equates vulnerability with weakness, we strive to dismantle these misconceptions. By openly sharing our own struggles and vulnerabilities, we pave the way for teenagers to do the same, fostering an environment where emotional expression is not just accepted but celebrated.

The goal of improving the mental health of young people extends beyond mere awareness; it's about transformation. By showing, rather than telling, we empower children and teenagers to embrace their emotional selves fully. This approach not only aids in their personal growth and healing journey but also contributes to raising the vibrational energy of our planet. At GAIAnostics, we believe that by leading with empathy, openness, and understanding, we can inspire future generations to cultivate a more compassionate, resilient world. It's through these collective efforts that we can truly make a difference, transforming mindsets and healing hearts, one vulnerable moment at a time.

At GAIAnostics, we believe in the power of healing that transcends traditional boundaries, advocating for a world where every child is embraced with love, understanding, and the opportunity to flourish. Together, let us sow the seeds of awareness, support, and transformation, as we journey towards a future where the mental health of our children is held in the healing light of our collective embrace. 

If you are able to, please make a donation to GAIAcendents.