Back to school, back to health
Belmont High School students wearing yellow ribbons to show support for suicide prevention.
While some students may disagree, this time of year we call Back to School is an exciting time representing another stepping-stone in our children’s scholastic journey. Back to School is an opportunity to recommit, re-engage and reconnect with friends who were missed over the summer. The importance of connection and socialization for students cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that socializing with peers greatly improves mental well-being. By returning to school, students can immerse themselves in activities like sports, clubs, and social events, significantly boosting their overall emotional state.
In addition to providing a rich learning environment, many of our schools also serve as health hubs in collaboration with public health organizations and healthcare providers that can have a profound impact on students' mental and physical health. These partnerships provide crucial mental health services, vaccinations, and health checkups, all while educating students about wellness.
A great example of this is the recent Summer Learning Academy organized by The L.A. Trust for the Student Advisory Board (SAB) members from fifteen LAUSD Wellness Center campuses. This virtual event served as an orientation for incoming SAB members, fostering learning and collaborative planning for the upcoming school year. SAB members gained insight into their roles as peer health educators, navigators, and mobilizers within their school communities, championing healing, recovery, and youth empowerment.
The students received informative training in QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention, a critical skill given the concerning findings from a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The study, released in February 2023, highlighted a worrisome increase in sadness, violence, and suicidal ideation among teenage girls, with 75% of U.S. teen girls reporting persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2021. Equipped with this critical skill, they are better prepared to address mental health concerns and provide support to their peers in need. "Our student health leaders are catalysts for positive change. With their knowledge and compassion, they're shaping a healthier, brighter tomorrow for us all,” said Maryjane Puffer, Executive Director of The L.A. Trust.
During the academy, students learned about the various services offered at their campus or nearby Wellness Center, including mental health care, vaccinations, and physical checkups. They also received training on maintaining well-being so they can share this information with their peers once school starts.
Throughout the school year, students will participate in weekly training sessions led by an Adult Ally from The L.A. Trust. These sessions focus on four core competencies: mental health, substance abuse, sexual and reproductive health, and oral health. By delving into these subjects, students gain a comprehensive understanding of vital health topics that they can share with others. Moreover, students will have an opportunity to develop their marketing and communication skills by creating engaging social media posts, flyers, informative brochures, and organizing campus events to share their insights and experiences.
As the school year begins and these extraordinary individuals step into the spotlight, The L.A. Trust celebrates their potential, applauds their commitment, and supports their endeavors. We are proud of our student health leaders. Armed with their ambitious energy and comprehensive health knowledge, their impact will shape our communities and spearhead our mission of providing education and access to high quality, compassionate care.