How eLuma is Fighting the Adolescent Mental Health Crisis, One Intervention at a Time
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating people about the importance of mental wellness and advocating for those who may be struggling.
At eLuma, we recognize the pivotal role school-based mental health services play in supporting students’ well-being. We wholeheartedly embrace Mental Health Awareness Month as an opportunity to illuminate the significance of this issue to educators, administrators, parents, and community members.
Children’s mental health is vital to their overall well-being, shaping how they think, feel, handle stress, and interact with others. Mental disorders among children are increasingly prevalent, with conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and behavior disorders affecting millions of students across the nation.
Statistics reveal the urgent need for intervention and support. 1 in 5 students seriously considered attempting suicide, and 1 in 10 attempted suicide (CDC). Every young life lost to suicide serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need for mental health awareness and accessible services.
Support Often Starts with School
School-based mental health services can give students access to providers who can offer services such as screening, referrals, and treatment that they may not be able to receive otherwise. In fact, many students prefer and benefit from virtual school-based interventions.
Recent studies have shown that virtual mental health services have increased access to care and improved student outcomes.
It’s also crucial to recognize the specific needs of vulnerable communities, such as BIPOC youth, who often face additional challenges and stigmas regarding mental health. Statistics show that Black and Latinx kids are 14 percent less likely than White kids to get help for their depression.
Despite cultural pressures, many BIPOC youth are actively working to destigmatize mental health and seek support through community resources.
Studies reveal that LGBTQ+ students are also at a significantly higher risk for mental health issues due to factors such as discrimination, bullying, and lack of support. According to recent data from The Trevor Project, LGBTQ+ youth are almost five times as likely to have attempted suicide compared to their heterosexual peers. Many LGBTQ+ youth encounter barriers to accessing adequate mental health support within school environments, and implementing inclusive and affirming mental health services within schools is crucial to addressing the unique needs of LGBTQ+ youth and fostering environments where all students can mentally and emotionally thrive.
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, let us advocate for comprehensive school-based mental health programs, ensuring all students have equitable support.
By promoting open dialogue, providing accessible services, and embracing the strength of community support, we can empower students to navigate their mental health journeys with courage and resilience.
Community Mental Health Strategies
Educators play a pivotal role in helping students access the mental health support they need to thrive. Each member of a school community can take steps to create an environment of sustainable mental wellness:
Mental Health Tips for Parents
- Encourage Self-Care: Prioritize your own well-being as a parent to better support your child. Make time for activities that promote relaxation and rest, such as short meditation sessions or enjoying outdoor activities together, like walking or playing with pets.
- Establish Healthy Boundaries: Help your child establish clear boundaries with schoolwork and social media. Encourage breaks and downtime to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy balance in their lives.
- Promote Open Communication: Foster open communication with your child and offer a listening ear. Encourage them to reach out to friends, family, or school counselors if they’re struggling with their mental health.
- Embrace Mindfulness: Encourage your child to incorporate mindfulness techniques into their daily routine, such as deep breathing exercises or short breaks to clear their mind and reduce stress.
Mental Health Tips for Students
- Prioritize Personal Well-Being: Take time to engage in activities that promote mental and physical health, such as reading, exercising, or spending time outdoors.
- Establish Healthy Boundaries: Create a healthy balance between academics and personal life. Schedule breaks and limit screen time to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted adult or school counselor for support during challenging times.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and avoid comparing yourself to others. Take breaks from social media and focus on activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Mental Health Tips for Teachers
- Prioritize Personal Wellness: Take care of yourself to better support your students’ academic and emotional needs. Prioritize regular exercise, adequate sleep, and activities that promote relaxation and rest. Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to manage stress and stay grounded amidst challenges.
- Establish Work-Life Boundaries: To prevent burnout, set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Learn to say no to additional responsibilities that may encroach on personal time.
- Proactively Support Students: By addressing mental health proactively, educators can create a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes emotional resilience, self-care, and positive coping strategies.
- Engage in Professional Development: Stay motivated and effective in teaching by pursuing continuous learning opportunities. Workshops, conferences, and webinars can enhance teaching skills and foster professional fulfillment.
Mental Health Tips for School Administrators
- Support Teacher Well-Being: Provide resources and support for teacher wellness, including access to mental health resources and opportunities for professional development.
- Foster a Supportive Community: Cultivate a culture of support within the school community where teachers feel comfortable seeking help and discussing mental health openly.
- Prioritize Student Mental Health: Implement programs and initiatives that prioritize student well-being, such as universal screening and access to mental health resources.
- Encourage Collaboration: Foster collaboration among staff members by providing opportunities for networking and sharing best practices in promoting mental wellness within the school community.
By implementing these tips and fostering a supportive environment, we can work together to promote mental wellness and create better outcomes for students, teachers, and the entire school community.
Whether it’s anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, early intervention for students can make a world of difference—that’s where eLuma comes in as a trusted partner in your Multi-Tiered System of Supports.
A Mission to Support All Students’ Mental Health
At eLuma, we’re committed to building a more compassionate educational environment through our end-to-end student services. We believe that by working together, we can create a culture where every student feels valued and empowered in their journey to well-being.
Our tailored solutions are designed to meet each school community’s unique needs and contribute to nurturing a thriving school culture and climate. Through services such as universal screening, teletherapy, tiered intervention, social work services, caregiver training, and consultative support, we actively support schools in fostering an environment where students feel valued and empowered. By addressing the diverse needs of students and promoting mental wellness, our solutions play a vital role in creating a positive school climate conducive to learning and growth.
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s join forces to advocate for mental wellness in schools and find support solutions that create better outcomes for students in need. Together, we build brighter futures and ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential!
