Coping Through Joking
A look at the mental health issues facing students
It’s all in our heads, so what about when our heads are broken?
October 31, 2017
Mental health is a problem in our community. It is the bane of many people around the world
“I would say three out of ten students talk about things that are going on relating to their mental stability,” Scott McMinds said. He is one of the school counselors. According to him, depression and self esteem are two of the larger issues that people come to him about.
“I’m not a therapist,” McMinds warned. He would never turn someone away, but he cannot help with the nuts and bolts of the matter. An outside therapist would be his recommendation in the end.
Youth Suicide Bullying Prevention (YSBP) is also another support the school offers for mental health. They are a student group dedicated to helping fellow students. Aina Zabinski, one of its valued members, believes that they can help with the basics. In the end however, she makes the same point as McMinds.
“We make whatever action is necessary, including contacting counselors or emergency services,” Zabinski said.
An anonymous student who has mental health issues believes that school’s resources are infinitely helpful. The counselors and YSBP always want the best, even if they are unable to do more than redirect a person to professionals.
“Just take it one day at a time,” they recommended. They make daily goals, in order to make it through the stressful slog of school.
Help is never out of reach.
If a person is still uncomfortable with the school, underneath there are several links to groups willing to help.
https://www.crisistextline.org/ Although the number they provide is for immediate crisis, the website has proven exercises and other links available, especially concerning anxiety and depression.
https://teenlineonline.org/ Similar to the Crisis Textline, this website provides a constant resource, one you can use at anytime.
https://www.additudemag.com/mobile-apps-for-adhd-minds/ This is a list of apps for people with attention difficulties, ADHD, ADD, etc.
http://autism.lovetoknow.com/Activities_for_Autistic_Adults Although the title says it’s for adults, the suggestions offered are available to anyone with autism.
