By Mercy Roland

CEO, MercySpeaks Initiatives | Host, Hangout with Mercy

As conversations around mental health continue to gain global attention, experts are calling for greater awareness and proactive support for the emotional well-being of children, teenagers, and families. In response to this growing need, MercySpeaks Initiatives, through its flagship television programme, Hangout with Mercy, is bringing mental wellness to the forefront with a special edition themed “Summer Reset: Protecting the Mental Health of Kids, Teens & Families.”

The programme features Bukola Oladeji, a Psychotherapist and HR Consultant, who shares practical insights into the emotional and psychological challenges confronting children, adolescents, and families in today’s fast-paced and technology-driven society. She explains that while academic demands, social media, peer influence, and changing family dynamics continue to shape young lives, intentional support systems can help prevent emotional distress and promote resilience.

According to Oladeji, protecting mental health requires more than responding to crises. It involves creating safe spaces where children and teenagers feel heard, understood, and valued. She emphasizes the importance of healthy communication, emotional intelligence, supportive parenting, and early intervention in helping young people navigate life’s pressures.

The discussion also explores practical ways parents, caregivers, educators, faith-based organisations, and community leaders can identify early warning signs of emotional struggles and provide the guidance, encouragement, and professional support needed to foster positive mental health outcomes.

A key message from the conversation is that mental wellness should become an everyday priority rather than an afterthought. Investing in the emotional well-being of children and young people today lays the foundation for raising confident, resilient, and purpose-driven adults capable of contributing positively to society.

Speaking at the end of the programme, Mercy Roland, CEO of MercySpeaks Initiatives and host of Hangout with Mercy, encouraged parents and caregivers to intentionally nurture not only the physical and academic development of their children but also their emotional and psychological well-being.

She stressed that building healthier communities begins with strengthening families, promoting open conversations about mental health, and removing the stigma associated with seeking help. According to her, protecting the mental health of the younger generation is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration among families, schools, healthcare professionals, religious institutions, civil society organisations, and government agencies.

Through Hangout with Mercy, MercySpeaks Initiatives continues to provide a platform for meaningful conversations that educate, inspire, and empower individuals while addressing pressing social issues and promoting stronger families and healthier communities.

As families prepare for a new season of learning, growth, and new experiences, this timely edition serves as a reminder that caring for mental health is one of the greatest investments society can make in the future of its children.

Broadcast Information

Programme: Hangout with Mercy

Host: Mercy Roland

Guest Speaker:
Bukola Oladeji
Psychotherapist & HR Consultant

Topic: Summer Reset: Protecting the Mental Health of Kids, Teens & Families

📺 Watch on OSRC TV: Saturday, August 9, 2026, at 7:00 PM

🔁 Repeat Broadcast: Monday, August 11, 2026, at 5:00 PM

Powered by: MercySpeaks Initiatives

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