May 13, 2025
Students can’t reach their full potential unless they feel their best. That’s why schools must promote mental wellness through accessible resources and caring adults. This is especially true in May, which is nationally recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month.
Established in 1949 by the nonprofit Mental Health America, then known as the National Association for Mental Health, the awareness month aims to educate the public and reduce the stigma around mental health issues.
Whether it is a school counselor, teacher or friend, students need to have someone they feel comfortable confiding in. Since they interact with their students every day, teachers are especially well-positioned to identify if a student is exhibiting unusual behaviors. In doing so, educators can guide students in getting the support they need.
Failing to address mental health issues worsens a student’s quality of life. It impacts academic performance, emotional well-being and physical health.
The National Library of Medicine’s 2009 research notes that some mental health illnesses and stress can directly affect the immune system.
Furthermore, disorders like depression and anxiety can also raise heart rate and blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart or metabolic disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
To avoid these adverse effects, students must feel supported.
Fortunately, LHS is exemplary in providing its students with a variety of mental health resources.
First, students have access to four school counselors they can connect with. School counselors are instrumental in guiding students to achieve their academic and personal goals.
Failing to address mental health issues worsens a student’s quality of life.
Students can connect with counselors outside of one-on-one meetings by attending lunchtime events such as Cocoa with the Counselors in the winter and Lunch and Learn sessions held throughout the school year, which provide information relating to college.
Furthermore, LHS partners with New Jersey Statewide Student Support Services, which provides students, parents, faculty and staff with mental wellness support services.
ILLUSTRATION BY MARIAH ALLEN
Unfortunately, some students hesitate to take advantage of these services.
According to EducationNC, a North Carolina-based organization focused on educational opportunities, people often avoid seeking help because of misinformation about mental health issues and disorders, embarrassment due to stigma, fear of broken confidentiality and worry about domestic repercussions.
To counteract these concerns, students must be educated about the importance of maintaining good mental health and the dangers of ignoring their feelings. They should feel confident that they can get the support they need without facing repercussions.
Every student deserves the chance to thrive—not just academically, but emotionally. With compassion, education and strong support systems, schools can make that goal a reality.
