Mental Health Awareness Week is designed to help people understand the misunderstood mental health issues people might not truly get. For anyone who goes through a mental health issue, it is important for them to have some kind of support system to help them.
At AHS, grades 9-11 participated in various activities dealing with mental health from October 9th through the 15th. They watched videos on the different mental health issues present in the world and talked about baggage people have. They also had the opportunity to ask mental health-related questions. One activity they did was with streamers, where they gave positive comments to classmates. They also got an advisory time to work on mindfulness or meditation.
Friday night’s football game will be a Green Out and shirts were ordered the week before. Through a generous anonymous donation, high school students got the shirts for free.
Posters with mental health tips on grounding techniques and signs of anxiety were also hung around the school. Included in the new posters, AHS students were highlighted in fall activities with inspirational quotes. Random students also received candy goodies and inspirational bracelets.
In the library, two comfy chairs with pillows were added as a place to take a mental health break if needed during the school day. Money raised from the Mental Health Awareness concert last May was used to purchase these items.
At AHS, we are lucky enough to have several people to help with any mental health issues that may arise. Any student is able to reach either of the counselors, Mrs. Stein or Mr. McLaughlin. They can also use the resources of the school therapist, Leah Wilhite, or Youth Services worker, Hailey Kofron. All are here to help and want the best for their students. Mrs. Stein states, “It’s fantastic that we are talking about mental health! Stopping the stigma around mental health is so important. I think the #1 thing for students to know is that they are not alone. Teachers, counselors, parents, other family members, and friends are here for you. Please reach out if you are struggling. Help is available, it CAN get better!”
Mental health is an important issue, and many people need a support system. Many are struggling alone, and it’s important to help them or have them reach out to someone they trust. Mental health should be your most important priority.
Other resources include: The National Disaster Distress Helpline, call or text 1-800-985-5990; theCrisis Text Line, text MHA to 741741; the Trevor Project, call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678678; and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-8255