Mental Health Monday

That is exactly what we asked our seventh and eighth-graders this year and apparently, a lot is on their mind... anonymously submitted of course, which prompted more detailed and honest responses (see below). We used these topics as ways to generate meaningful group discussions, spread awareness, promote stronger bonds, and a greater sense of community. The students did awesome participating on all fronts I might add.  

 

So why did I choose this as the last Mental Health Monday publication for this school year? Well, because I feel strongly that if we believe in community, and the concept that “it takes a village”, and I think we do, when raising our youth, then we need to be creating further opportunities to talk with them, to each other, and better understand what it’s like to grow up today. We also need to be transparent, and this is not just for seventh and eighth-graders, rather, with all students. As we near summer break, I am hopeful that some of these conversations (if not already happening) can continue to occur at home. Or minimally, this helps you get a sense of what some of them are thinking about and attempting to manage in addition to their academics. This has been a notable year for all, and as we reflect on our experiences, I am optimistic that we have learned a thing or two. Mainly, that we need to slow down and communicate more. We need to look towards the future of supporting our youth’s mental health needs strategically, creatively, and promptly with less stigma attached. Most student’s difficulties do not surface from academics, rather from interpersonal and social issues. 

 

I often remind myself that talking in its simplest form is what separates us from animals and distinguishes us as having superior intelligence. Intelligent people know that the wisest and most beneficial thing in life and relationships are good conversations.   

 

I am wishing everyone a wonderful end of the school year and summer break. I am proud of our entire Canterbury community for all the great things that took place, despite Covid-19 and in everyone’s resilience this year. Stay Healthy. Go Cougars and congrats to the Class of 2021!  

 

Respectfully submitted,

Patricia M. DeV​​ost, LCSW
Middle and Upper School Counselor

“All Problems Exist In The Absence of Good Conversation” 
- Thomas Leonard