The week of May 7 to 13 will be National Prevention Week. This national initiative is endorsed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

The Mental Health Education Club is collaborating with Metropolitan Family Services and other agencies to run activities that promote wellness related to substance awareness education and mental health during lunch periods (third period to seventh period, except for Monday) with the help of staff and students. 

“National Prevention Week is important because it’s something that’s endorsed nationwide. The whole purpose is to reduce the stigma around mental health and that’s also what Mental Health Education Club is all about,” school psychologist Kim Bernardi said.

The purpose of National Prevention Week is to reduce stigma and raise awareness of mental health and substance abuse.

On Monday, there will be a chalk walk at 7:30 before school at Door 16. Students and staff will write encouraging words on the concrete to support others.

Tuesday will have games such as a timed tower-building game using Smarties and the winner will receive free merch. You can also win free merch from a raffle.

There will be socializing and connecting activities available on Wednesday. Therapy dogs and a calming space at the Old Commons, will be available in the school on Thursday. 

To end off the school week, there will be a community agency fair in the Old Commons plus a photo booth where you can take pictures for free!

You can involve yourself more with substance awareness and mental health by being a part of the Mental Health Education Club every other Wednesday morning in room 1100 at 7:30 am. The club also has food and you can get free merch if you go to the club at least three times. 

If you have any mental health situations, you can always contact your counselor. They’ll be able to reach out to a school psychologist or social worker. The school is also able to provide resources outside of school if needed.