Teaching life-saving skills
What if we teach and instill in our youth to be confident; to communicate about and learn how to manage conflict, anger, sadness, and fear in a safe and healthy way; prioritize empathy and compassion; and, provide access to pro-social activities for all?
How would these lessons, skills, resources, and opportunities impact the health and well-being of our community and drastically aid in the prevention of mental illness and violence?
There is no obligation to teach these potentially life-saving skills. Obviously, not everyone learns how. Now, add in the fact that our culture is saturated in instantaneous, often impulsive communication and replaced in-person dialogue with “social” media.
The consequences are real. We’re doing it wrong. Itap time to pour our resources into prevention and early intervention. Enough is enough.
Gabriela Sandoval, Denver
