Cherish R. Johnson
WIOA State Youth Coordinator
Mississippi Department of Employment Security
FREE YOUR MIND: POSITIVE AFFIRMATION FOR YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULTS
May has been designated as National Mental Health Awareness Month. 21st century youth and young adults face many challenges as they try and navigate their way through life while seeking meaning and purpose. Research indicates that challenges such as struggling with decision-making, body image, exposure to violence, social exclusion, and discrimination can lead to poor mental health in youth. Taking a holistic approach of the intersection of the mind, body, and soul to combat the stigma associated with youth mental and behavioral health can be overwhelming and demanding. Practicing positive daily affirmations can assist youth and young adults to combat this stigma by igniting the process of embracing self-worth, self-confidence, self-appreciation, and self-love. Positive affirmations can also help youth and young adults build self-efficacy, resilience, improve relationships and academic success. Before you begin your start by telling yourself: 1. I am a strong, capable person; 2. I have experienced challenges in the past, and I am more resilient; 3. I am worthy of receiving good things and of accomplishing my goals in life; 4. The past is the past, and my past doesn’t predict my future; 5. I forgive myself for mistakes I made and I refuse to hold them against myself.
