25 Jul 2022
Prudence Foundation launches Stress Busters video to boost juvenile mental health in Asia
The new video provides entertaining and educational information to children featuring popular Cartoon Network characters
Hong Kong, 25 July 2022 - Prudence Foundation today launched a 60-second educational video, titled “Stress Busters”, across eight markets in Asia.
Jointly produced with Cartoon Network and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (‘IFRC’), the video touches on children’s mental health and well-being with easy-to-understand and relatable tips to overcome stress and anxiety. The video is part of Prudence Foundation’s SAFE STEPS Kids programme.
Marc Fancy, Executive Director, Prudence Foundation said stress and anxiety, if not managed properly, can have long-term adverse impact on a child’s physical and emotional development.
“Children today face more challenges and uncertainty, further exacerbated by the social and invisible impact of the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. We strive to equip millions of children in Asia with simple and friendly advice to help them deal with stress, and build mental resilience,” said Mr Fancy.
A UNICEF report in 2021 highlighted that more than one in seven adolescents aged 10 to 19 globally is estimated to live with a diagnosed mental health issue. The disruption to routines, education, recreation, as well as family income and health, is leaving many young people feeling afraid, angry, and concerned for their future.
Designed with the needs of Asia’s young audience in mind, the Stress Busters video leverages Cartoon Network original shows such as The Powerpuff Girls, We Bare Bears and Craig of the Creek. The well-known cartoon characters explain the importance and ways of coping with stress.
Awantika Sood, Executive Director of Consumer Products, Advertising and Partnerships - Southeast Asia at Warner Bros. Discovery, which houses Cartoon Network in its portfolio of brands, added: “The public service announcement offers six simple tips to help children overcome some common stress-related difficulties. Cartoon Network is a place that inspires kids to embrace their true selves and this video is an extension of this philosophy. We think its uniquely relatable format will connect with youngsters around the region.”
SAFE STEPS Kids Stress Busters is aired on Cartoon Network channels across eight markets in Asia, namely Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam commencing today. The video is available in English, Thai, Chinese and Vietnamese, reaching 35 million households every day.
Mariko Hirai, Youth Delegate, IFRC Asia Pacific, said: “Children of all ages in all types of environments are struggling with prolonged challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The new Stress Busters video is the collective commitment of the IFRC and National Societies to develop a culture of safety for children across Asia. It showcases the critical work we have been carrying out together across schools as well.”
The Stress Busters video will also be hosted on the SAFE STEPS Kids website at https://www.safestepskids.com and Cartoon Network’s social channels. Complementary collateral will be distributed to schools and communities across the region through the IFRC network.
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Media enquiries:
Jeremy Cheung | Email: jeremy.ky.cheung@prudential.com.hk
Hui-Yi Kho | Email: kho.hui.yi@prudential.com.hk
About Prudential plc
Prudential plc provides life and health insurance and asset management in Asia and Africa. The business helps people get the most out of life, by making healthcare affordable and accessible and by promoting financial inclusion. Prudential protects people’s wealth, helps them grow their assets, and empowers them to save for their goals. The business has more than 18 million life customers and is listed on stock exchanges in London (PRU), Hong Kong (2378), Singapore (K6S) and New York (PUK).
Prudential is not affiliated in any manner with Prudential Financial, Inc. a company whose principal place of business is in the United States of America, nor with The Prudential Assurance Company Limited, a subsidiary of M&G plc, a company incorporated in the United Kingdom.
About Prudence Foundation
Prudence Foundation is the community investment arm of Prudential in Asia and Africa. Its mission is to secure the future of communities by enhancing education, health and safety. The Foundation runs regional programmes as well as local programmes in partnership with NGOs, governments and the private sector in order to maximise the impact of its efforts. Prudence Foundation leverages Prudential’s long term mindset and geographical scale to make communities safer, more secure and more resilient. The Foundation is a Hong Kong registered charitable entity.
For more information please visit: https://www.prudencefoundation.com
About Cartoon Network
Cartoon Network, the leading kids’ channel in Asia Pacific, offers the best in original content from Cartoon Network Studios, Warner Bros. Animation, DC and Hanna-Barbera including global hits: Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, Teen Titans Go!, Looney Tunes, Craig of the Creek, Tom and Jerry and We Bare Bears; as well as Asia originals such as the International Emmy-nominated Lamput.
The brand is known for putting its fans at the centre of everything by applying creative thinking, fun and innovation across multiple platforms. Cartoon Network also reaches millions more through its websites, apps, games and streaming services including HBO GO. In Asia Pacific, Cartoon Network, companion brand to Boomerang, Discovery Kids and POGO, is distributed by Warner Bros. Discovery. www.cartoonnetworkasia.com
About International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC)
IFRC is the world’s largest humanitarian network, comprising 192 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies bringing together almost 15 million volunteers for the good of humanity. IFRC reaches 160 million people every year through long-term services, development programmes and disaster response. And IFRC works to improve global humanitarian standards and persuade leaders to act in the interests of vulnerable people.
Its strength lies in the volunteer network, the unparalleled community-based expertise and independence and neutrality. For more information please visit: https://www.ifrc.org/