By: Debra Cady, LCSW
I had the privilege of being a keynote speaker at the Missouri Children's Trauma Network Annual Summit.
We dove deep into "Learning through the Lens of Young People" featuring insights from five incredible young adults who shared
their experiences and tips on supporting youth with mental health challenges as they transition into adulthood.
I was honored to present their videos and elevate their voices in my keynote speech.
One of the workshops I taught was "Trauma-Informed Methods of Engagement (TIME)" for youth advocates, where I shared ways to prepare and support youth advocates to safely share their lived experiences and strategies to minimize unintended consequences by using trauma-informed strategies.
Here are the key takeaways from the conference that really resonated with me:
It's okay not to have it all figured out. Transitioning into adulthood can feel overwhelming, but there's no rush to have everything sorted. Let's reassure our youth that it's a journey, not a race, and that we're here to help them navigate every step of the way.
Peer support is crucial. Having someone who understands and can relate makes all the difference. Let's prioritize connecting youth with certified peer support specialists or near-peers to ensure they feel supported and understood during this pivotal time.
Trust takes time. Many young adults have faced challenges accessing and receiving mental health services in the past, leading to weariness AND wariness. Let's never give up on them and understand that building trust is key. Recognizing their priorities—like jobs, education, and stability—is essential in providing effective support and therapy on their timeframe.
Embrace individuality. There's no one-size-fits-all approach to adulthood. Let's empower youth to carve their own paths and support their unique visions for the future, free from societal pressures and comparing the progress of others.
Working with this age group fills me with excitement and hope for the future.
They're the leaders of tomorrow, and it's our duty to serve them well.
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