Fall has arrived! As we settle into October and embrace the autumn season, it’s an important time to also focus on mental health and well-being. The changes that come with this time of year—shorter days, cooler weather, and busier schedules—can affect both children and adults in different ways. At our schools, we recognize the importance of addressing not only the academic growth of our students but also their emotional and mental well-being. We thank you for your partnership and for being an essential part of our school community. Together, we can make this month a fantastic experience for our students!
Laura Lupo
Mental Health Coordinator
360-318-2470

October is National Depression Month

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October is National Depression Month and Oct. 10 is World Mental Health Day. These designations bring opportunities to identify mental health challenges and seek help.
If you think you or someone you know might be experiencing depression, look out for these signs:
  • Feel irritable or grouchy
  • Focus on failures, feel guilty, or be self-critical
  • Lose interest in friends, activities, or school
  • Engage in risky behaviors
  • Sleep too little or too much
  • Change in eating habits
  • Have low energy or trouble concentrating
  • Experience headaches, stomachaches, or other pain
Our schools also have mental health supports available for students. Please connect with your child’s school counselor to learn more.
988 Lifeline
988 provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, available 24/7. You can reach the lifeline via call, text, or chat at 988Lifeline.org. If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Our schools also have mental health supports available for students. Please connect with your child’s school counselor to learn more.
NAMI Whatcom County
Locally, NAMI Whatcom County is a great resource and offers presentations, classes, and individual/family support groups.
Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program is available to Meridian staff and provides free short-term counseling, crisis intervention and assessment.

Supporting Mental Health at Home

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Here are a few ways you can promote positive mental health at home this October:
  • Maintain a Routine: Regular schedules for homework, play, and sleep can help create a sense of security and stability, especially during busier months.
  • Encourage Open Communication: Make time to talk to your children about their feelings, school experiences, and friendships. Let them know it’s okay to express their emotions, whether they’re happy, sad, or stressed.
  • Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation: Consider practicing relaxation techniques as a family, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, to help manage stress. Even simple activities like a nature walk or listening to calming music can promote relaxation.
  • Limit Screen Time: As the weather cools, it’s easy to turn to screens for entertainment, but too much screen time can affect mental health. Encourage activities that allow your children to engage their minds in different ways, such as reading, crafting, or outdoor play.
Resources for Mental Health Support:
  • If you notice your child showing signs of anxiety, stress, or emotional challenges, please don’t hesitate to reach out. As the district Mental Health Coordinator, I can also connect you with community mental health resources if needed. Laura Lupo 360-318-2470

October is National Bullying Prevention Month

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October is Bullying Prevention Month. Kindness is the foundation of a welcoming and inclusive environment. By showing respect and compassion to one another, we create a school where everyone feels valued and supported.
We want our school to be a safe, welcoming space where children come ready to learn. If your child is experiencing bullying, please connect with a trusted adult at your child’s school or use our safety tip line (Vector Alert). Safety tips can be sent online, or via text or phone at 855-977-0973. We also have more resources available on our district website.
Let’s work together to ensure that our actions reflect our values.

Disability History and Awareness Month

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In Washington, October is Disability History and Awareness Month. The month’s goals are to increase awareness, respect, and acceptance for people with disabilities, along with increasing pride for people with disabilities. Disability pride is about accepting and honoring each person’s uniqueness and seeing it as a natural and beautiful art of human diversity.
Right is the Disability Pride Flag. Each color represents a disability.
RED: Physical disabilities
GOLD: Cognitive and intellectual disabilities
WHITE: Invisible and undiagnosed disabilities
BLUE: Emotional or psychiatric disabilities
GREEN: Sensory disabilities

Bullying vs Being Mean

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The difference between being mean and bullying lies in intent, repetition and power. For kids, knowing the difference between bullying and being mean is important. Being mean usually happens when someone says or does something hurtful once or twice, often because they are upset or frustrated. It can still hurt feelings, but it’s not ongoing. Bullying, on the other hand, is when someone is repeatedly mean on purpose to hurt or control another person. Bullying happens over time and often involves someone trying to show power over another, like making fun of someone every day. Understanding this helps kids know when to stand up for themselves and others, and when to ask for help.
Meridian School District takes bullying very seriously. Anyone who believes that harassment, intimidation, or bullying has occurred should report the behavior to a teacher, counselor, school nurse or school administrator. To report unresolved, severe or persistent harassment, you can:
  • Contact the administrator at the targeted student’s school.
  • Contact the District Office at 360-398-7111.
  • Use the Vector Alert System to report online, by text, or by phone.
  • Print and complete the HIB reporting form found on the district website.

October Dates

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10/2: National Custodian Appreciation Day
10/4: No School
10/6: World Cerebral Palsy Day
10/8: International Dyslexia Day
10/9: National Stop Bullying Day
10/10: World Mental Health Day
10/14: Indigenous Peoples’ Day
10/26: National Make A Difference Day
10/31: Halloween