Univision 41 Features Promise Zone Family Advocate Mayra Rosendo in Story on Children’s Mental Health

English Transcript:

Anchor:
With the start of the school year, more cases of anxiety and stress among children are being reported. But a mother from the Bronx is working to change this stigma. We welcome Mayra Rosendo, who tells us more, because this is also part of her personal story.

Mayra Rosendo
For me, it’s very important to support parents during this new school year because of the stress and anxiety it can cause them. My personal experience—my children had special needs, and when I needed support, it was very important for me to receive it. I got the help I needed.

Anchor:
That affects children psychologically, especially when they’re in groups with other children who are developing. How do you deal with a situation like that?

Mayra Rosendo:
When children are seeing other kids and things, we support parents by helping them find the resources their children need. We help them communicate with teachers, and that’s the most important thing—seek the help children need in the moment.

Anchor:
How can parents identify that something is happening or that something is going on with their children?

Mayra Rosendo:
Sometimes children cry a lot or start showing behaviors—especially the little ones who can’t speak. They start acting out. Maybe they don’t want to go to school, or they cry a lot, or they get distracted. That’s how parents can identify that something is going on.

Anchor:
And what measures can parents take to prevent children from feeling this way when it comes to anxiety or stress? And if it becomes a more extreme case, should they go to the doctor?

Mayra Rosendo:
Yes, in some cases, these are things that can be resolved or improved through our program, with a worker who works one-on-one with them. They provide techniques for managing different types of anxiety. And if that doesn’t help the child, then they need to seek professional help—talk to the pediatrician or participate in some of the programs we offer.

Anchor:
Thank you very much, Mayra.