Greenwood High School, in partnership with the Greenwood Education Foundation and Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, is taking proactive steps to destigmatize teen mental health.
In a joint effort involving community partners, the school district, and students, they are spreading awareness about mental health resources and letting struggling students know that they are not alone.
High school can be a challenging time for many teenagers, and mental health issues are a growing concern. According to Katy Frye, the executive director of the Greenwood Education Foundation, suicide is the second leading cause of death among high school students.
Therefore, it’s crucial to openly discuss these issues to normalize conversations around mental health.
To address this concern, students from the Bring Change 2 Mind Club at Greenwood High School, in collaboration with Anthem, took an initiative this week. They distributed promotional items featuring the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline phone number to their peers before school.
Junior Eleanor Guipe, a member of the club, shared her perspective on the importance of their actions. “When I was a freshman, I realized that a lot of people struggled but they didn’t want to talk about it.
I have had people come to me and ask me for help, and I have realized now that I have grown up, and that we have had all of these things come to light that people are more okay talking about it, and that it is not seen as a scary topic.”
The primary goal of distributing these resources is to remind students that help is always available, even in immediate crisis situations. By providing easy access to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, the school hopes to ensure that students in distress can reach out for support without hesitation.
Various Steps To Destigmatize Teen Mental Health
This proactive approach is part of a broader movement to destigmatize mental health issues among young people. Adolescence can be a vulnerable period, with teenagers facing academic pressures, peer relationships, and personal challenges.
Fostering a safe and open environment for discussions about mental health can be a lifeline for those who may be struggling.
Moreover, partnerships between educational institutions, foundations, and healthcare providers are essential in addressing mental health concerns effectively.
By joining forces with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Greenwood High School is amplifying its efforts to support students and raise awareness about available resources.
The collaborative effort not only seeks to address immediate crises but also aims to create a culture of mental wellness within the school community. It encourages students to look out for one another, share their experiences, and seek help when needed.
This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health in educational settings. Schools play a crucial role in students’ overall well-being, and efforts like these demonstrate a commitment to their mental health, alongside their academic success.
In addition to distributing resources, schools can also benefit from implementing comprehensive mental health programs, providing access to counseling services, and training staff to recognize signs of distress among students.
The work being done by Greenwood High School and its partners is a positive step towards breaking down the stigma surrounding teen mental health. It sends a powerful message to students that their well-being is a top priority and that they should never hesitate to seek help when facing mental health challenges.
Ultimately, initiatives like this can save lives by ensuring that young people have the support and resources they need to navigate the complexities of adolescence, making their educational journey safer and more mentally resilient.