Girl Scouts Mental Health Awareness Patch

As a former Brownie and Girl Scout, I am so excited to share the news about this Girl Scout patch. Bravo to the Girls Scouts and the International Bipolar Foundation!

The International Bipolar Foundation patch is available to all scouting organizations. It originated with the Girl Scouts of the United States of America, but it has also been distributed to American Heritage Girls, Girl Guides, and others. 

"With the increase in youth bullying, suicide, and drug use, Girl Scouts are actively fighting to create change. Through a program to educate and reduce the stigma of mental illness, Girl Scouts can earn the Mental Health Awareness Patch developed by us for playing a positive role in their communities.

With approximately 1 in 4 people in the U.S. diagnosed with a mental illness, awareness of those impacted is also growing. 

The opportunity to learn about mental health is consistent with the Girl Scout organization's dedication to the health and well-being of all girls. In earning the patch, scouts:

Learn how the brain impacts mental health.

Explore how discrimination against those with a mental health condition makes it difficult to seek help. 

Learn about many great achievers who experienced mental illness. 

Research how mental health is portrayed in the media.

Create anti-stigma campaign activities." 

Click the link below to access the activity packet and learn more about how to earn the patch.

                                                 http://tinyurl.com/nnodnsb

This could be an opportunity for nurses with mental health challenges to help Girl Scouts earn patches. Nurses with mental health or other challenges challenges could also gain valuable volunteer experience.