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A HELPING HAND

Thoughtfully Designed

Though there are numerous coping mechanisms students could utilize for their own psychological well-being, these practices all depend on the adolescent and what their needs are. For instance, some may require a shoulder to lean on and open ears while others may enjoy alone time to recharge their social battery and recollect themselves. 


In the study conducted on ECTA students, they were asked about what they, themselves, did to maintain their own mental health.



Many spoke out saying that partaking in personal hobbies, connecting with people that they trust, and practicing self-care are the main things to focus on when trying to improve/maintain your mental health.


One student, in particular, gave a helpful explanation on how they practiced self-care: “To keep up with my mental health, I try to focus on the positive and think about how I can change or better the situation. I also try to set a good amount of time for myself to make sure I’m doing well mentally and I’m not overwhelmed.”


When it comes to confronting people about our struggles, it is understandable that it feels like a daunting task. For some, we build walls of fear, barricading ourselves in the darkness, too afraid to reach out, thinking: “What will they think of me?” “What are they going to do to me?” “Is it better to just stay quiet?” But vocalizing your feelings is, ultimately, the best step in moving forwards. 


It might seem scary and you may not get what you need right away, but “…you just sometimes need to keep talking to people until you get the help that you need,” says Mrs. Rawson, achievement coach at East Career and Technical Academy.


“If you’re struggling…find someone you trust and confide in them. Don’t be afraid to get help because the sooner you can start identifying the issue, the sooner you can start overcoming [it].” (Meraz)


Mrs. Rawson concludes, “I hope that students at East Tech know that they can reach out and that we will help them…even in your saddest moments, life isn’t always like that…things will be better again.”


“Know that your feelings are valid, learn what is making your mental health difficult to maintain, and understand that while it may seem bleak now, the storm never lasts forever and the sun will shine soon enough.”

  • Noe  M., student

A Helping Hand: Featured Work
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