In early September 2024 I was interviewed by a member of youth-led, US-based "Peace of Mind Initiative" (https://www.instagram.com/peace.of.mind.initiative/), whose goal is to destigmatize teenage mental health challenges. [Note: For the purpose of having an authentic conversation, my responses to the questions were not prepared in advance, nor rehearsed. Apologies for the moments of low sound quality!] Key points in the conversation: 👇 00:07 - What inspired you to pursue a career in Psychology? 01:11 – What drove you to start your Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/workwithcharis/) to share Mental Health resources? 02:25 – In your 22 years of experience, how do you think that shaped your perspective on Mental Health? 04:50 – In your experience, what are some common stressors you’ve seen in students and how do you address that as an Educator? 09:39 – How do you think schools could implement good mental health practices and which ones do you think are the best for students’ wellbeing? 10:55 – What signs of mental health struggles do you look for when children are going through something? Say a child is not feeling well, what are some signs that show they need help? 13:33 – What strategies do you recommend for youth to help them build a more healthy and stable mindset? 15:33 – Could you expand on the importance of positive adult role models in a young person’s mental health journey? 18:07 – How do you think friends play a role in a young person’s mindset and mental health? 20:18 – Did you experience any challenges while attempting to promote mental health policy changes in your school? 25:07 – What do you hope to achieve through your work and what kind of impact do you want to make? 29:56 – What advice would you give to someone, like a young student, who’s interested in Psychology or wanting to become a Mental Health advocate? 31:31 – Are there any specific mental health struggles you’ve been through personally that you’d like to share?

🙏 You are invited to explore the various categories of material in this group: mental health & wellbeing, facilitation, education, self-awareness. 📢 Please say Hi and share what brings you to this community! 🖐 In the images below you can discover the main points of my professional educational path, thus far. From growing up in emotionally adverse circumstances to studying Psychology and then discovering the wonderful world of experiential learning, as well as social issues which affect the world. You can read more about me here: https://www.withcharis.com/about