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Welcome to the new school year and to another year of quarterly Mental Health Newsletters! As we have officially left summer in the rearview mirror and are deep in the hustle and bustle that the school year brings, I’m here to remind you that it's important for both students and their families to prioritize mental health. This time of year brings a mix of excitement and anxiety (at my house, we call this “nerve-citement”), and supporting mental well-being is a key to setting everyone up for a great school year.
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STUDENTS - As we move into another school year, whether this is your first or last year at Brebeuf, let’s all remind ourselves of some things that we can do to set ourselves up for success:
- Set Realistic Goals: Begin the year by setting achievable academic and personal goals. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Establish a Routine: Consistent sleep schedules and healthy, balanced meals can greatly impact your mood and energy levels in a positive way. Aim for at least 8 hours of sleep each night and try to maintain a regular daily routine.
- Manage Stress: Incorporate stress-relief techniques and self-care into your routine, such as deep breathing exercises, physical activity, or journaling. Finding healthy ways to cope with stress will help you handle challenges more effectively.
- Stay Organized: Use planners or whatever digital tools you like to keep track of assignments, exams, and extracurricular activities. Being organized can reduce anxiety and help you feel more in control.
- Reach Out for Support: Don’t hesitate to talk to teachers, counselors, coaches, or trusted friends and family if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
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PARENTS - Here are some tips for how you can work to support your student now and throughout the school year:
- Open Communication: Encourage your teen to share their feelings and experiences. Create a safe space where they feel comfortable talking about their concerns without fear of judgment.
- Monitor Stress Levels: Be aware of signs of stress or anxiety in your teen, such as changes in behavior, sleep patterns, or mood. Offer support and be proactive in seeking help if needed.
- Encourage Balance: Help your teen find a balance between academics, social activities, and relaxation. Overloading them with too many commitments can lead to burnout.
- Promote Self-Care: Model and encourage self-care practices, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep. Your habits can influence your teen’s approach to managing their own well-being.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about mental health issues and available resources. Understanding what your teen might be going through will help you offer better support.
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As we move into this exciting new school year, remember that maintaining mental health is just as important as academic success and that you cannot have one without the other. By fostering open communication, encouraging balance, and seeking out support when needed, we can help ensure a positive and productive school year for everyone.
Stay connected, stay informed, and most importantly, take care of yourselves and each other.
Go Braves!
Libby Pollak, MSW
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MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
September is Suicide Prevention Month. Familiarize yourself with suicide prevention resources available including the 988 Lifeline. Click here for more suicide prevention resources you can use. Wonder how to determine if you (or your child) are experiencing a mental health condition? Click here. We understand that many of our students are facing challenges that can often go unnoticed. Some are struggling with financial difficulties, while others are caring for sick parents or surviving on limited resources. The Care Collective, rooted in our Ignatian tradition of cura personalis, is a platform that offers real relief for those in our community who need it most. And, as always, you can check out the School Social Worker page at Brebeuf.org for more mental health information and resources.
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With Brebeuf Cares, students are encouraged to use this form not only if they see something concerning, such as bullying or offensive misconduct, but also if they see or hear something more subtly troubling, like a friend who has become suddenly withdrawn, distant, depressed or has threatened to harm themselves.
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