Activism And Mental health

Everyone should have a mental health strategy. Even though we know our readers like to WING it, mental health is just as important as physical health. I know what you might be thinking, what FalCAN you do to help? Well, you can lay the eggs of change- for yourself and others ;)

We had the opportunity to interview mental health leaders in our community about their activism and their county-wide impact. One student, who you’ll learn more about throughout the article, talks about her involvement in Student Wellness And Education Resources, or SWEAR. “I became a member of SWEAR by presenting my association with mental health issues and using them to help the district battle such issues in its student body.” She explains how the student-initiated group collaborated with community leaders, schools, and other organizations in order to destigmatize mental health issues and empower youth activists. The two SWEAR representatives of Scripps Ranch High School went to Marshall Middle School to educate the student body on available resources and essential mental health information In order to get accurate information, she tells us, “I partnered with the JED Foundation and Rady Children’s Hospital ” The activist explains 1 in 5 teenagers have or will have a mental illness The far-spread impact of mental health is why she worked with district board members to widen her support for the cause.

We got the opportunity to interview an SDUSD student board member, one of our very own, Lea Nepomuceno. As a board member, Lea represents students in many decisions that affect the district. She calls for change and talks directly to leaders in our district to pass resolutions. Lea stresses the importance of supporting the mental health of the staff that run our schools along with the students. Talking about an SDUSD wellness day, she says, “It was really great to see all the staff gather together in a commitment to community health and wellness.” Nepomuceno continues to inspire students to take action and make a positive

The two activ ps Ranch High School students, rallying for a change in our community. Both Lea, and the other activist, one of the authors of this article, supported a district-wide resolution recognizing student mental health and well-being on January 26th, 2021. The district now formally supports Senate Bill 14 which allows for mental health excused absences and calls for staff training to aid in mental health crises. The resolution was monumental in breaking the stigma and supporting student well-being. Remember that mental health day we all got? That was because of this resolution and the persistent advocacy of SWEAR and student activists across the district. Students have created momentum in inspiring vital changes for mental health policy and education, so let's keep the wings of change flapping

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Rewards:

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