The purpose of this special edition newsletter is to highlight some of the amazing mental health awareness activities that have been happening throughout our schools during the month of May.
Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the United States since 1949, and was was started by Mental Health America, an organization formerly known as the National Association for Mental Health. Each year in mid-March Mental Health America releases a toolkit of materials to prepare schools and community organizations for outreach activities. The theme for 2021 was #Tools2Thrive.
#Tools2Thrive was aimed at providing practical tools that everyone can use to improve their mental health and increase their resiliency regardless of their personal situation. Topics and tools covered: Adapting after trauma and stress, Dealing with anger and frustration, Getting out of thinking traps, Processing big changes, Taking time for yourself and Radical acceptance.
The four District Mental Health Specialists work with the 41 school-based Mental Health Liaisons to organize and implement a multi-tiered system of mental health supports for LCS students. Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity to bring awareness to the importance of mental wellness and resources that support mental health.
Below are examples of topics that were introduced throughout the district:
- Zones of Regulation
- Positive Messaging & Affirmations
- Mindfulness & Self-Care Plans
- De-stigmatizing Mental Health
- Celebrating Strengths & Wins
- Youth Mental Health First Aid
- Sanford-Harmony Social-Emotional Learning
- Replacing & Reframing Negative Thoughts
- Staff Recognition for Supporting Students
- Collaborative Learning & Building Connections
- Student Mental and Emotional Health Education
- You're Not Alone Student Ambassadors
Mental Health Awareness Month also provided an opportunity for You're Not Alone High School Student Ambassadors to reach out to their peers, reduce stigma and bring awareness to mental health and wellness.
Please follow us on our Facebook page: Lake County Schools Mental Health
