Lived experiences heard: when the voices of children and families bring real change
Today we mark World Mental Health Day. This year's theme, "Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change", reminds us of something we see at Orikami every day: change begins when a person is truly heard.
EVERY EXPERIENCE IS KNOWLEDGE
The child who is afraid to go to school. The teenager who spends more and more time alone in their room. The parent who is exhausted despite giving everything they have. Their stories are not "just feelings". They are valuable knowledge. They tell us what is really happening and what is really needed.
That is why at Orikami we look at a problem in the context of the whole family, not only the member who shows a symptom. When every voice in the family has its place, it becomes easier to find new ways of being together.
HOW TO TRULY LISTEN TO YOUR CHILD
- Get down to their level and look them in the eye.
- Name feelings instead of minimising them: "I can see you're angry" rather than "It's nothing."
- Don't rush to give advice, sometimes your presence is enough.
- Trust their experience, even when you don't fully understand it.
A quiet child isn't always a calm child.
Some children don't cause "problems" precisely because they hide their worries, so they won't be a burden to their parents. It's worth asking even the calmest ones: "How are you, really?"
PARENTS HAVE A VOICE TOO
Parents often put their own experience last. Yet children sense a parent's stress even when nothing is said. Caring for yourself is not selfish. It is the foundation from which your child learns how to calm down.
Your calm is your child's first lesson in calming down.
WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY 2026 THEME
Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change
Theme set by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH).
WHEN TO SEEK SUPPORT
If, for more than a few weeks, you notice changes in your child's behaviour, sleep, appetite, mood or school performance, or if you yourself feel exhausted and drained, talking to a professional can help. Asking for help is not weakness. It is care.
The Orikami team
WE'RE HERE FOR YOU
Every child and every family deserves a safe and supportive environment. If you have questions or would like to book a first session, get in touch.