Mindful Moments

As we step into September, we're excited for a month filled with new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and a continued focus on mental wellness. This is the perfect time to remind ourselves of the importance of self-care and connection as we navigate the school year together.

In this edition of our newsletter, we’re offering some valuable insights into setting boundaries and practicing self-care to promote emotional and mental well-being. We’re also highlighting important information on suicide prevention awareness to ensure we are all equipped with the knowledge and resources to support our students and colleagues.

Let’s take a moment each day to check in with ourselves and others—whether through a kind word, thoughtful action, or simply by being present. Small gestures can make a big difference in fostering a positive and supportive environment for our students, staff, and community.

Wishing you all a fantastic month ahead! Remember, we're here for each other every step of the way.

The start of the school year brings a surge in responsibilities. Establishing boundaries between work and personal life is crucial for maintaining balance and preventing burnout. Setting clear limits helps protect emotional well-being, reduce stress, and foster healthier interactions. Here are some strategies to help:

• Identify and communicate your limits.

• Schedule regular breaks and personal time.

• Practice saying no when necessary.

• Set specific work hours and stick to them.

• Engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being.

For more tips on creating and maintaining healthy boundaries, visit NAMI’s guide on Creating and Maintaining Healthy Boundaries.

Self-care is essential for mental and physical health. It boosts well-being, reduces stress, and builds resilience. By managing emotions and preventing burnout, self-care helps maintain a positive outlook and strengthens mental health. Here are some simple self-care practices to incorporate into your routine:

• Schedule Regular Breaks: Take short breaks throughout the day to recharge. Even a few minutes of stretching or deep breathing can make a difference.

• Stay Active: Physical activity is a great way to boost your mood and energy levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days.

• Connect with Others: Build and maintain relationships with friends and family. Social support is vital for emotional well-being.

• Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness techniques such as meditation or journaling to manage stress and stay grounded.

• Healthy Habits: Prioritize healthy eating and sufficient sleep to maintain physical and mental health.

For more insights on self-care and its benefits, check out this resource from NAMI: What Is Self-Care? How Can Practicing Self-Care Help with My Mental Health.

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a critical time to raise awareness and provide support. Here’s how you can help:

• Recognize the Signs: Recognize the Signs: Be mindful of warning signs like changes in behavior, withdrawal, or expressions of hopelessness. If you observe these signs, offer compassion and support. For more information on recognizing the signs, visit NAMI's website.

• Listen and Support: Sometimes, just being there to listen can make a significant difference. Offer a non-judgmental ear and let the person know they are not alone.

• Seek Professional Help: Encourage individuals to seek help from mental health professionals if they are struggling. Provide resources and support for finding appropriate care.

• Know the Resources: Familiarize yourself with local and national resources for mental health support and crisis intervention. Share these resources with others to ensure they have access to help when needed.

• For those interested, free print materials for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are available. Click here if you’d like more information.
  

Contact Information for Support:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 Call/Text or Chat @ 988lifeline.org

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

• Scheib 24/7 Mobile Crisis Line: 1-877-466-0660

In collaboration with local partners, The Greater Mercy Foundation and Blue Hole Regional Park, the Wellness Center is hosting a Suicide Prevention Awareness Walk on Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 9-11 am. Your support is warmly invited as we raise awareness for Suicide Prevention.

All Hays CISD staff are required to complete Youth Mental Health First Aid training. This training equips staff with the tools to recognize and respond to students' mental health needs, fostering a supportive school community. Hill Country MHDD, our TEA-designated local mental health authority, has offered this training to Hays CISD for nearly six years.

This training also ensures compliance with Texas Senate Bill 11, which mandates strategies to identify and support students with mental health challenges, making it a crucial part of enhancing school safety and student well-being. If you have not completed this course, please see the following options to enroll.

September 7th, 8:00 am-12:00 pm

September 9th, 8:00 am-12:00 pm

September 12th, 4:00-8:00 pm

Please scan the QR CODE for easy registration or click here.

Hays CISD is dedicated to becoming a 100% No Place for Hate® district, reflecting our commitment to creating a positive and inclusive environment for all students and staff.

To learn more about fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect in our schools, please visit this link:

https://web.cvent.com/event/d28b065b-a38c-4c56-ad2f-c0ab8dadff8e/summary

Together, we can make Hays CISD a model of respect and inclusivity!

Kaylynn Schrandt, the Animal-Assisted Support Liaison for the district, is working to introduce animal-assisted support across various campuses. Research highlights that these programs can provide significant emotional and psychological benefits, helping students and staff manage stress, anxiety, and academic challenges.

Several campuses, including Tom Green, Sunfield, Johnson, Camino Real, and Fuentes Elementary, have already identified innovative ways to incorporate these services to emotionally, socially, and academically support students. We look forward to expanding this support to even more campuses throughout the district!

In our new monthly feature, the Challenge Corner, we’ll provide engaging challenges designed to boost mental well-being and foster personal growth. Each edition will offer a new challenge, practical tips, or inspiring success stories from our community. Join us in embracing these challenges to enhance your mental health and make a positive impact in your life. Look for this motivating section in every issue!

This month, we challenge you to create a personalized self-care plan and implement it. Tips on how to get started:

1. Design Your Plan: Identify activities and practices that help you feel relaxed and rejuvenated. This could include exercise, hobbies, social time, or relaxation techniques.

2. Set Goals: Determine specific, achievable goals for incorporating self-care into your routine. For example, commit to 30 minutes of physical activity three times a week or daily mindfulness practices.

3. Hold Each Other Accountable: Share your self-care plan with a colleague or friend and check in with each other regularly to discuss progress and challenges.

4. Celebrate Success: Acknowledge your efforts and celebrate the small victories. Recognizing your achievements can boost motivation and reinforce positive habits.

Let’s support each other in prioritizing our mental health and well-being. Together, we can create a healthier and more balanced school environment.

Maritza Gonzalez, Director of Guidance and Counseling and CCR

LindaRae Johnson, District Mental Health Professional

Rachel Maldonado, District Mental Health Professional

Rena Bertelson, District Mental Health Professional

Kaylynn Schrandt, District Mental Health Professional(Part-time)

We’re thrilled to announce that Mental Health Interns are enhancing our mental health support across several K-12 campuses and through the Family Success Center this Fall.

• St. Edward’s University, 7 Master’s level counseling interns will be available throughout Fall 2024 to provide valuable support to our campuses. Learn more about their program here.

  
  

• Texas State University’s School of Social Work will contribute 2 Master’s level social work interns, throughout Fall 2024. Learn more about their graduate program here.

• Together, these interns will contribute a remarkable 200 hours a week, enriching our efforts to meet the mental health needs of our students and strengthen our support systems here at Hays CISD.

Hays CISD Counseling Offices Directory 2024-25

If you have any requests or suggestions for topics to include in our upcoming mental health newsletters, we welcome your input and would appreciate hearing your ideas. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Email: rena.bertelson@hayscisd.net