New Season - Quick Mental Health Check
As we get to the end of September, temperatures have gotten cooler, leaves are changing, most schools have been back in session for almost two months and students are establishing routines. We all get busy with school, extracurricular activities and life, but it is vital to keep a check on our mental health. The changing of seasons is a good time for a quick mental health check.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2021, more than a third (37%) of high school students reported they experienced poor mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, and 44% reported they persistently felt sad or hopeless during the past year. We must provide access to and communicate about mental health support opportunities for all students, staff and families. This month we are focusing on your mental health and encouraging you to reach out for help.
Quick Ways to Boost Your Mental Health
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states “mental health” refers to your overall psychological well-being. Anyone can experience challenges with their mental health. Here are some tips for students and educators that may help boost their mood:
1) Track gratitude and achievement with a journal.
Include three things you were grateful for and three things you were able to accomplish each day. Draw or doodle if that’s your jam. Make this journal entry truly your own!
2) Take time to laugh.
Hang out with a funny friend, family member or colleague; watch a comedy or check out cute videos online. Laughter helps reduce anxiety. Don’t forget that it’s OK to laugh at ourselves at times. Let’s try not to take life so seriously and take a moment for humor.
3) Sleep is our body and mind's best way to recharge and rejuvenate.
One way to get better sleep is to take a break from the stimulation of screens – television, phones, tablets or computers – in the hours before bedtime. Consider reading or listening to relaxing music instead.
4) Take a 30 minute walk in nature.
Walking could be a stroll through a park or a hike in the woods. Research shows that being in nature can increase energy levels, reduce depression and boost well-being. (American Psychological Association, 2020)
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988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline - Team Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services
Kentuckians in crisis can now connect with suicide prevention, mental health and substance abuse counselors using a nationwide, easier-to-dial phone number – 988.
Like 911 and other national, three-digit phone numbers, 988 was created to be easier to remember and make crisis care easier to access. Available 24/7/365 and free of charge, callers to 988 will connect with a compassionate, highly-trained mental health professional who can help address their mental health concerns.
Counselors are part of a Kentucky network of call centers linked to other invaluable, lifesaving services. If someone calls 988 from Kentucky, the national hotline can connect the caller with local resources for additional supports. This helps get callers connected quickly to the individual support they need.
Upcoming DEIB Events
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Sept. 28: Equity Playbook e2L Leadership Training, Kentucky Valley Educational Cooperative
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Sept. 28-29: Equity Playbook e2L Instructional Coaches and Counselors Training, Green River Regional Educational Cooperative
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Sept. 29-30: Equity Playbook e2L Instructional Coaches and Counselors Training, Northern Kentucky Cooperative for Educational Services
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