May is Mental health awareness month and we want you to know that GEF has your back. We want to support all aspects of the young minds that we advocate for even outside of learning! Mental health is just like physical health which means you should make sure you’re active in its maintenance.
Prioritizing mental health is vital to a balanced education and life and it is vital to teach students the importance of this fact early. Integrating learning about mental health is something that we should celebrate and bring into the classroom.
If you or anyone you know are struggling with mental health, reaching out is the first step. We need to celebrate the courage it takes to speak with friends, family, or mental health professionals.
There are a lot of resources available for not only students but anyone who wants to take the step and discuss their mental health. School counselors are an amazing resource and mental health professionals are now more accessible than ever. By having meaningful conversations about mental health, we get one step closer to healthier, more fulfilled lives!
For resources, you can visit Youthwell and Calm 4 Kids to support the mental health of children and adolescents.
Local resources include: Mental Wellness Center Santa Barbara
Guidance for Educators
Trauma Informed Strategies to Use in Your Classroom
Child Trauma Toolkit for Educators
Managing Students Behavior During Remote Learning