Mental Health First Aid Logo
Mental Health First Aid Logo

May 10, 2015

Give educators the tools to fight mental illness

SchoolsYouth and Teen

Last week was National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week. Every day, about 20 percent of students entering classrooms across the nation are struggling with mental health challenges. Seventeen percent of high school students report they have seriously considered suicide in the past 12 months. Students who have experienced traumas, such as witnessing family violence or the traumatic loss of a loved one, may appear distracted, unfocused, withdrawn or moody. These students are often labeled “problem students” before schools have a chance to understand what is behind their learning struggles.

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Mental Health Resources

If a mental health or substance use challenge is affecting you or someone you know, there are several resources available to learn more or get connected with help. If you are in crisis, or you know someone who is, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or dial 911 in case of emergency.

View Resources