Overview

Recently I [Matt] had a chance to interview 4-H youth member Bella who is also this year's 4-H club president for Hallwood in Yuba County. The following are Bella's responses to my questions.

About Bella

[Matt] What is your current role in the 4-H program? Describe your involvement and any leadership responsibilities you have.

[Bella] As the President of Hallwood 4-H, I create agendas, run the meetings, lead younger members by teaching them Parliamentary Procedure, and guide club planning. Additionally, I am a part of the horse project, the woodworking project, and the hiking project.

About Bella's Spark

[Matt] What is your “spark”?

[Bella] Although I have many sparks, nothing makes me happier than working with other youth in 4-H. For instance, one of my favorite parts of 4-H is when my club enters an exhibit into the Commodities Booth competition at the Yuba-Sutter Fair. Between working with other club members to create the display and watching the other 4-H youth show their project animals, experiencing the fair makes me feel more connected to the Hallwood 4-H community.

Bella's 4-H Accomplishments

[Matt] As a 4-H'er, what are some of your proudest accomplishments?

[Bella] As a 4-H'er, one of my proudest accomplishments is winning a Best of Division and a Best of Show at the Yuba-Sutter Fair for my bench I made in woodworking my freshman year. Additionally, I am proud to have won highpoint in the Ranch Horse Senior classes at the Butte County 4-H Show and reserve highpoint in the non-ranch horse western classes. Even so, I am most proud of how much I have grown as a rider by going to 4-H shows; now, I am better at maintaining a calm composure, and I have learned to work hard and feel accomplished regardless of whether or not I win.

Looking to the Future

[Matt] Where do you see yourself in the next three years?

[Bella] After graduating high school next June, I hope to attend a 4-year university in California to study Global Studies and Environmental Science. Although this is my last year in 4-H, I will always apply and carry with me a deep appreciation for agriculture and the impact that it has on people's lives.

Advice for 4-H Members

[Matt] What advice would you give other 4-H youth members?

[Bella] I would tell other 4-H youth members to explore their passions fiercely. 4-H has so many amazing opportunities, including fun projects, interesting categories for fair entry, chances to volunteer locally, and platforms to develop lifelong skills. Not only can participating in different parts of 4-H give youth members the ability to better understand themselves and their interests, but it can help create a stronger and more engaging community that will inspire others.

Impact of 4-H Volunteers on Bella's Life

[Matt] What impact have 4-H volunteers made in your life?

[Bella] Overall, 4-H volunteers have been immensely impactful in my life. By acting as role models of how to be an inclusive and kind adult, they inspire me to become a better person and work to achieve my dreams. Furthermore, I feel supported by their dedication to youth development. By putting forth effort for the club, 4-H volunteers lead by example and inspire me to be the best that I can be.

About the 4-H Program

To learn more about the 4-H program in Sutter-Yuba, please check out our website.

Overview

Recently I [Matt] had a chance to interview 4-H youth member Genevieve who is also this year's 4-H club president for Eureka Granite Bay in Placer County. The following are Genevieve's responses to my questions.

About Genevieve

[Matt] What is your current role in the 4-H program? Describe your involvement and any leadership responsibilities you have.

[Genevieve] As a senior in high school, this year will be my 12th and final year of 4-H. This year, I am looking forward to being the Eureka Granite Bay 4-H Club President. I will also be the teen leader for the Fiber Arts and Gardening projects this year. I am excited to participate in lots of committees to organize community service opportunities for the club! These leadership roles really mean a lot to me. I will be responsible for leading club meetings and officer meetings, as well as collaborating to lead project meetings.

About Genevieve's Spark

[Matt] What is your “spark”?

[Genevieve] My biggest spark is photography. I began to discovered this spark quite a few years ago when I participated in our club's photography project. Learning more about how to use a camera, and delving into aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings, combined with fun prompts and different types of photography was just what I needed to realize how much I love photography. I have since learned so much not only about my camera and editing, but also about the local bird species and their unique behaviors. I'm excited to share my spark, especially for bird photograph, this year when our 4-H club participates in the Back Yard Bird Count event in February.

Genevieve's 4-H Accomplishments

[Matt] As a 4-H'er, what are some of your proudest accomplishments?

[Genevieve] My biggest accomplishment as a 4-H'er is bringing my club together, and helping to lead various club activities. Most recently I helped to organize our club's cut out board entry in the Placer County Fair. I ran planning meetings, prepped the board for painting, and then organized for our club to help paint the board at our end of year potluck. Our club won the $500 grand prize for our cut out board, but the real reward was not the money, it was getting to lead the club in a collaborative activity, and then seeing all of our hard work pay off.

Looking to the Future

[Matt] Where do you see yourself in the next three years?

[Genevieve] In the next three years, I see myself in college studying in the field of biology. Moving away from home is a big step in everybody's lives, and I already know that my participation in 4-H will help me to easily adjust to a new college lifestyle. 4-H has taught me so many valuable life skills, how to make friends, keep organized records, communicate in a professional manner, take responsibility for my actions, and most of all step out of my comfort zone. All of these skills will certainly help me to be a successful college student.

Advice for 4-H Members

[Matt] What advice would you give other 4-H youth members?

[Genevieve] I think it is very important, especially for new 4-H members, to remember that everyone else in the club was once a new member in a group full of strangers, and we know just how you feel. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, and have fun! 4-H is a place where everyone can fit in. Whether you are interested in animals, leadership, or community service, there is something for everyone. Every 4-H club is happy to see new faces and include you in their group.

Impact of 4-H Volunteers on Genevieve's Life

[Matt] What impact have 4-H volunteers made in your life?

[Genevieve] 4-H volunteers and the program as a whole have made a really big impact on my ability to get up in front of a group and talk to an audience. Having a supportive group of 4-H volunteers that always helped me feel welcome and safe really allowed me to become a more independent person. When I started 4-H, I was apprehensive and afraid to stand up in front of the club to make even the smallest announcement. Now I lead every meeting with confidence, all thanks to the support from our club's 4-H volunteers. As a senior member I now can appreciate how much adult volunteers make everything in 4-H possible through their mentorship and guidance.

About the 4-H Program

To learn more about the 4-H program in Placer County, please check out our website.

Promoting Healthy People and Communities

One of the public values of the University of California's Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources is the promotion of healthy people and communities. One aspect of healthy people is promoting mental well-being. As we recognize national mental health day on October 10, we have an opportunity to promote the mental health of our young people. 4-H is a positive youth development program committed to developing healthy youth. As such, 4-H has an opportunity to support the mental well-being of our young people. Toward this effort, below is an overview of mental health concepts and terminology. Numerous hyperlinks and resources for further research are provided below.

Overview of Mental Health

According to the World Health Organization, “Mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” 

The U. S. Department of Health and Human Services says, “Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.” 

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) explains that Any Mental Illness (AMI) includes a mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder. Examples of AMI include: depression, anxiety, eating disorders, attention deficit disorder, and substance abuse.

The NIMH explains that Serious Mental Illness (SMI) includes, “a mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder resulting in serious functional impairment, which substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities.” 

Watch Mental Health Video

Prevalence of Any Mental Illness in U. S.

Figure from National Institute of Mental Health.

Mental Disorder and Good Mental Health

Figure from Fusar-Poli (2020) "What is good mental health?"

Core Domains of Good Mental Health

According to Fusar-Poli (2020), the following are core domains of good mental health:

• Mental health literacy
• Attitudes towards mental disorders
• Self-perceptions and values
• Cognitive skills
• Academic/occupational performance
• Emotions
• Behaviors
• Self-management strategies
• Social skills
• Relationships
• Physical health
• Sexual health
• Meaning of life
• Quality of life 

Determinants of Mental Health

According to the World Health Organization, multiple social, psychological, and biological factors predict the mental health of people, including:

• Economic stress
• Physical and sexual violence
• Discrimination

What Is Attachment Theory?

Attachment theory focuses on the enduring emotional ties between people, starting in infancy. The goal of an innate attachment behavioral system is to maintain adequate care and protection. When people face threats to their safety and security, they try to increase proximity to an attachment figure to restore a sense of security.

Mental Health Curricula and Resources

• 4-H Mental Health and Wellbeing Champion Group. (2023). 4-H Mental Health and Wellbeing Champion Group: Suggested Curriculum & Programs. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IR4xxriqNk14IpYuIXlV-k3sO0NB1YlbU8P44JB-wQ8/edit 
• Bercaw, S., & Johnston, K. (2018). GEM: Get Experience in Mindfulness: An Awareness and Acceptance Stress Management Program for Ages 10 and Up. University of Delaware. https://shop4-h.org/products/gem-get-experience-in-mindfulness 
• Dellifield, J., & Raines, A. (2018). Your Thoughts Matter. The Ohio State University. https://shop4-h.org/products/your-thoughts-matter-navigating-mental-health 
• Iaccopucci, A., Lewis, K., & Soule, K. (2019). Mindful Me: A 4-H primary mindfulness curriculum. University of California. https://shop4-h.org/products/mindful-me-a-4-h-primary-mindfulness-curriculum 
• Iaccopucci, A., Lewis, K., & Soule, K. (2020). Mindful mechanics: A 4-H mindfulness curriculum for adolescents and adults. UCANR. https://shop4-h.org/collections/healthy-living-foods-curriculum/products/copy-of-mindful-mechanics-a-4-h-mindfulness-curriculum-for-adolescents-adults
• Liechty, L., & Berkenes, T. (2023). Mindful Teen: From Surviving to Thriving. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. https://www.extension.iastate.edu/4h/iowa-4-h-mental-health-and-well-being
• Lobenstein, M. M., Park-Mroch, J., Crowley, L. L., Bean, C., & Voss, M. W. (2022). A review of youth mental health curricula in peer-reviewed studies addressing access, equity, and belonging. The Journal of Extension, 60(2), 1. 
• Mental Health First Aid. (2023). Mental Health First Aid for Teens. National Council for Mental Wellbeing. https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/population-focused-modules/teens/
• Norrell-Aitch, K. (2013). Be SAFE: Safe, Affirming and Fair Environments. Michigan State University. https://shop.msu.edu/products/Bulletin-HNI101-USB 
• Rhodes, A., Garcia, Z., Lewis, K., & Norrell-Aitch, K. (2023). Understanding Stress and Trauma in Youth Webinar Series. UCANR.
  

Mental Health Crisis Resources

If you are thinking about suicide, or worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline Network is available 24/7 across the United States. Here are additional resources:

• National suicide prevention lifeline
• 1-800-273-TALK (8255) [24/7 Hotline]
• 1-888-628-9454 (Spanish)
• 1-800-799-4889 (TTY)
• This hotline is available 24 hours a day.
• Crisis text line
• Text “MHFA” to 741741 to speak with a compassionate, trained crisis counselor, a volunteer who has been trained to help with problem-solving and will address the caller's situation.

References

Fusar-Poli, P., Salazar de Pablo, G., De Micheli, A., Nieman, D. H., Correll, C. U., Kessing, L. V., Pfennig, A., Bechdolf, A., Borgwardt, S., Arango, C., & van Amelsvoort, T. (2020). What is good mental health? A scoping review. European Neuropsychopharmacology, 31, 33-46. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.euroneuro.2019.12.105

Mental Health First Aid USA. (2020). Youth Mental Health First Aid Participant Processing Guide. In. Washington, DC: National Council for Behavioral Health.

National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Mental Illness. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness

Penn State PRO Wellness. (2018). Teen Health: Mental Health Penn State Health Children's Hospital; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1i9OktVsTWo 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023). What is Mental Health? U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health

World Health Organization. (2023). Mental health. World Health Organization,. https://www.who.int/data/gho/data/themes/mental-health 

World Health Organization. (2022). Mental health. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response

Overview

Recently I [Matt] had a chance to interview 4-H youth member Marlie, who is also this year's 4-H club president for Long Valley in Placer County. The following are Marlie's responses to my questions.

About Marlie

[Matt] What is your current role in the 4-H program? Describe your involvement and any leadership responsibilities you have.

[Marlie] I am currently the Long Valley 4-H President. I facilitate the monthly club meetings. This is my 7th year in 4H. I have held other offices such as Secretary, Treasurer, and others. I have been part of the horse project, the rabbit project, and lifeology.

About Marlie's Spark

[Matt] What is your “spark”?

[Marlie]

Marlie's 4-H Accomplishments

[Matt] As a 4-H'er, what are some of your proudest accomplishments?

[Marlie] I have several proud accomplishments from being a 4-H member. I have become a more confident and comfortable public speaker. I have also learned a great deal about rabbit care and showed my rabbit at the Gold Country Fair for several years. In addition, I've acquired many leadership skills, including horsemanship; I now ride on a regular basis, and participate in several shows a year.

Looking to the Future

[Matt] Where do you see yourself in the next three years?

[Marlie] In the next three years, I hope to stay involved in 4-H as I finish high school. After I graduate, I plan to attend college, but I am unsure of what I want to study, maybe something with animals, the environment, or working with kids.

Advice for 4-H Members

[Matt] What advice would you give other 4-H youth members?

[Marlie] I'd encourage new 4-H members to get involved as much as you can. Not only do you learn more about a passion you have, but you meet new people.

Impact of 4-H Volunteers on Marlie's Life

[Matt] What impact have 4-H volunteers made in your life?

[Marlie] The Long Valley 4-H volunteers have had a positive impact on my life. My Aunt Bobbie was the club president and encouraged me to join when I was in 4th grade. Jackie Rhodes owns the property we meet at and opens her animals and barn to the 4-H members, which has allowed me to have hands-on learning experiences.

About the 4-H Program

To learn more about the 4-H program in Placer, please check out our website.