May was designated National Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949 by the US Congress due to the increased number of veterans suffering from mental illnesses after returning from World War II.  It’s a powerful movement that brings attention to the fact that mental health matters as much as physical health.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!
In order to best support our students and families, we want to hear from you! What is the best way for you to receive information about mental health? What do you want to learn more about? Please take 5-minutes to complete this brief survey, it will open in a new tab. Thank you!
NAVIGATING THE TEEN YEARS
How do I help my child through the challenges they face in the teen years? by the Child Mind Institute (6 minutes)

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WHEN SOMEONE TELLS YOU THEY’RE FINE, BUT THEY’RE NOT
Fine.  Okay.  Alright.  We have all had someone tell us they were one of those things and known that it couldn’t be further from the truth.  Here are some ideas for things to say to create an environment that encourages someone to open up about what’s really going on.

It seems like something is bothering you.  I’m here to listen if you want to share.
Do you want to go to (coffee, lunch, take a walk).  I feel like we have a lot to catch up on.
I’ve been fine before.  I’m here if you want to talk.

DO:  
Listen.  Actually pay attention to the person who is speaking and avoid the urge to talk about personal experiences
Ask:  Ask if they have thought about what they might need to feel better,  If they haven’t, support, listen, and talk it out with them
Confidential:  Keep it confidential unless it is life threatening
Normalize:  Assure the person that having a mental health concern is common and there are a lot of resources to help.
Follow up:  It takes courage for someone to speak up about what is bothering them. Touch base in a few days to see how the person is feeling.

DON’T:
Tell them “they shouldn’t feel that way.”
Use the word crazy
Tell someone what they SHOULD do, instead, ask what they want you to help them with.
Assume they want your advice.  Many times, people just want someone to listen and help them feel less alone..
Make comparisons.  Telling someone “it could be worse” minimizes their experience and invalidates their feelings.
WHEN THE WORLD DOESN’T LISTEN. BE THE FRIEND WHO DOES
We Can Talk About It: 60 | Seize the Awkward by the Ad Council (1 minute)

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WHERE TO START:  STARTING CONVERSATIONS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH
Dear___________________.

For the past (week/month_____________, I have been feeling (moody, agitated, stressed, hopeless, overwhelmed, ______________),  I have struggled with (sleeping, changes in appetite, lack of energy, inability to concentrate, sadness, anger, _______________).  Telling you this makes me feel (nervous, anxious, embarrassed, empowered,_______________), but I’m telling you this because (I’m afraid, it’s impacting my friendships, I don’t know what to do, I don’t want to feel like this, _________________).  I would like to (tell my family, talk to my doctor, talk to my teacher, get better, find support,_____________) and I need your help.

-Mental Health America
CELEBRATING STAFF
Mental health matters and for the month of May,  thanks to the generous donations from Dandelion Organic, Smith Gardens, and Tony’s coffee, staff will see how much they are appreciated each week throughout the month.  A huge shout out to these wonderful organizations (Dandelion Organic Delivery, Smith Gardens and Tony’s Coffee)!



SELF-CARE AND GUILT
It’s understandable to feel guilty about missing work, especially if you value your job and the responsibilities that come with it.  It’s important, however,  to recognize that it is normal and necessary to prioritize your well-being from time to time.  Whether your sick or need a personal day, here are some steps to help address the feelings of guilt:

Acknowledge your feelings:  It’s okay to feel guilty but try to accept these feelings without judgment. Recognize that your well-being is important and taking a personal or sick day is a legitimate way to take care of yourself.

Focus on recovery:  Instead of dwelling on guilt, focus on getting better if you’re sick or addressing the personal issue that’s keeping you away from work.  Taking time to rest and recuperate will ultimately benefit you and your employer in the long run.

Challenge Negative Thoughts:  Remind yourself that taking care of your mental and physical health is essential for overall well-being and productivity.

Normalize self-care:  Remember that taking a personal day is a healthy part of maintaining work-life balance.  It’s important to prioritize your well–being and address any personal needs or stressors that may be impacting your ability to perform at your best.

Practice Self-Compassion:  Be kind to yourself!  Everyone needs time off to re-charge and taking care of yourself is not selfish – it’s necessary for long-term health and happiness.

Focus on Self-Care:  Reflect on what you need the most, whether it’s rest, relaxation, or engaging in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul.  Prioritize activities that help you feel rejuvenated and refreshed

Set Boundaries:  Whether sick or taking a personal day, use the time to disconnect from work and focus on self-care.  Avoid checking emails or taking work-related calls.

Taking a personal day is not only beneficial to you, but also for those around you. By prioritizing your well-being, you’ll be better equipped to show up as your best self in both your personal and professional roles. With a proactive mindset, you can alleviate any feelings of guilt and make the most of your time off to focus on self-care and rejuvenation.

KEY DATES

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May 6-10 – Teacher Appreciation Week
May 8 – National School Nurse Day
May 10 – No School, Staff Learning Day
May 27 – No School, Memorial Day