Student Mental Health

As school begins, many students can struggle with the back-to-school transition. Long days, academic demands, extracurriculars, and a large increase in peer interaction can leave some of our students feeling overwhelmed and tired. Sticking to healthy eating habits, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest sure do become critical for our bodies and minds to stay healthy.

It is no secret that there is a crisis in regard to youth mental health. More and more of our young people are facing struggles that they need help with. This is a complex and multifaceted problem that probably does not have one singular cause. Increased use of technology, especially social media, certainly has its role in this problem, so it will be interesting to see what happens if the current phone ban legislation is signed by Governor Shapiro.

Regardless, I implore you all to stay involved in your child's life, even as they try to push you out during their adolescent years. I realize how tough it can be to crack those shells, but it is so critical that we know our kids and keep a pulse on how they are really feeling.

There are resources within the school should you feel that your child is struggling. We keep updated contact lists of area therapists, and we have a Student Assistance Program that helps you find access to mental health and substance abuse counseling. Please call our office if you find yourself wondering how to help your kid. We are here to support you and your family throughout these sometimes challenging adolescent years.