May Is Mental Health Awareness Month: A Parent Resource Guide
This guide is brought to you through a partnership between the Carmel Central School District, the Prevention Council of Putnam, and the Carmel Communities That Care Coalition, united by a shared mission: to educate and empower parents and caregivers with accurate, practical information to help keep children safe and healthy.
Mental health is a vital part of overall health for children, teens, and adults. Mental Health Awareness Month, observed every May, is a time to reduce stigma, build understanding, and remind families that help and support are available
Why Mental Health Matters
- Mental health affects how children think, feel, learn, behave, and handle stress.
- Childhood and adolescence are critical periods for emotional development, and early support can improve lifelong outcomes.
- Mental health challenges are common, and experiencing them is not a sign of weakness.
Understanding Mental Health
- Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well‑being and affects how we think, feel, act, and handle stress.
- Mental health is important at every age, from early childhood through adolescence and adulthood.
- Mental health challenges are common and treatable, and seeking help early can make a positive difference.
- Mental health is just as important as physical health, and both are closely connected.
Signs a Child or Teen May Be Struggling
Consider reaching out for support if you notice behaviors that last several weeks or interfere with daily life, such as:
- Persistent sadness, withdrawal, or irritability
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Declining school performance or loss of interest in activities
- Excessive worry, fear, or emotional outbursts
- Risky behaviors or talk of self-harm
Parents are encouraged to trust their instincts and seek help early.
How Parents and Caregivers Can Help
- Start the conversation: Ask open-ended questions and listen without judgment.
- Normalize feelings: Let children know it’s okay to talk about emotions and ask for help.
- Model healthy coping: Caring for your own mental health helps support your child’s well-being.
- Seek professional guidance if concerns persist—your pediatrician, school staff, or a mental health provider can help.
When to Get Immediate Help
If a child or teen is in crisis or talking about harming themselves or others, help is available 24/7:
- Call or text 988 – Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Chat via 988lifeline.org
Confidential, free support is available for parents, youth, and families nationwide.
Support and Helplines
The Prevention Council of Putnam: 845-225-4646
Free confidential information and referral.
CoveCare Center: 845-225-2700
Provides mental health and supportive services for adults, children, families, and seniors.
Mental Health Association in Putnam County: 845-278-7600
Offers a variety of social programs and provides information and referrals.
Putnam County Crisis Intervention Hotline: 845-225-1222 (call or text)
Provides free confidential crisis intervention.
Putnam County Department of Mental Health: 845-808-1500
Provides referrals, Co-Response Team, Single Point of Access for youth and adults.
Student Assistance Services Counseling Center: Carmel High School Satellite Clinic: 914-874-1660
Services are provided by experienced licensed professionals in English and Spanish.
Trusted Sources and Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
https://www.cdc.gov/children-mental-health/about/index.html
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/children-and-families
New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH)