Family Centre & CAS To Host Info Sessions
Family Centre, in collaboration with Bermuda Hospitals Board’s Child & Adolescent Services [CAS], will host two free Information Sessions aimed at supporting families of children aged 4-18 in the Bermuda community.
A spokesperson said, “As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the first session, focusing on anxiety, will take place on Monday, May 20, 2024. The second session, addressing depression, will follow on Monday, May 27, 2024. Both sessions will be held at Family Centre, located at Sunshine League House, 27 King Street, Pembroke, with dinner served at 5:30 PM and the workshops running from 6:00 to 7:15 PM.
“University of Melbourne Ph.D. candidate, Daniel Cavanagh’s local research on adolescent mental health in partnership with the Bermuda Hospitals Board revealed the number of adolescents in Bermuda experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression is 5-6% higher than post-pandemic global averages. These collaborative workshops aim to provide parents and guardians with crucial information about anxiety and depression, including their warning signs and strategies to support children experiencing these mental health challenges. With the increasing prevalence of anxiety and depression among children and adolescents, these sessions offer invaluable insights for families to better understand and address these issues.”
According to Family Centre Director of Counselling Services, Susan Richardson, “We recognize the importance of equipping families with the knowledge and tools to navigate mental health challenges, and these sessions provide a valuable opportunity for parents and guardians to learn and connect.”
The spokesperson said, “Family Centre Counsellor, Cherise Carey will lead the anxiety information session, while CAS Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Carla Bean, will lead the depression information session. CAS Child Psychiatrist Dr. Peter Yates will be available at both workshops to address questions about medication for anxiety or depression.
“While there is no cost to attend, a suggested donation of $10 per family, per workshop is appreciated to help cover the cost of dinner. Interested participants can sign up online at https://tfc.bm/family-groups or by calling 232-1116 for more information.”
Dr. Peter Yates of Child & Adolescent Services states, ” Through this partnership, both our organisations have aimed to create a supportive environment where families feel empowered to address mental health concerns and foster resilience in their children. We are pleased, excited and look forward to continued collaborations with the Family Centre team.”
The spokesperson said, “These sessions underscore the commitment of Family Centre and Child & Adolescent Services to promote mental wellness and support families in the Bermuda community. We encourage all families with children aged 4-18 to participate in these informative sessions to gain valuable insights and resources for supporting their children’s mental health.”
