"I believe in ordinary acts of bravery, in the courage that drives one person to stand up for another."
Lately I have been flying through the Divergent book series. The above quote is one of the lines that inspires the Dauntless faction. I found myself marking this page and going back to re-read its context several times.
As we embark on Children's Mental Health Awareness Month, I feel that this quote adequately represents our role as Professional School Counselors, and as Advocates. On a daily basis, we encounter a range of student concerns. Although not all of our students possess a "diagnosis", per say, they regularly encounter situations, that, if not approached with the proper coping skills, can have a significant effect on their overall "mental health".
It is our job, as the quote states, to stand up for these students. To provide them with personal/social skills & tools that they can utilize. To challenge rules that may deny them access to opportunities or services. To be their voice, a listening ear, and sense of support at all times. Does this require acts of bravery on our part? Absolutely. Will we encounter individuals who consistently come from a place "no"? For sure. But will our unwavering determination inspire others and eventually be recognized? With time. And we will be on our way towards the development of high aspirations & support for every child.
This Thursday, May 8th, SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) encourages you to wear GREEN in support of Children's Mental Health Awareness. "Listen, Don't Label. Ask, Don't Fear." As advocates, let's help them to raise awareness. Visit http://www.pasocpartnership.org/resources/childrens-mh-awareness-week for more information.
As we embark on Children's Mental Health Awareness Month, I feel that this quote adequately represents our role as Professional School Counselors, and as Advocates. On a daily basis, we encounter a range of student concerns. Although not all of our students possess a "diagnosis", per say, they regularly encounter situations, that, if not approached with the proper coping skills, can have a significant effect on their overall "mental health".
It is our job, as the quote states, to stand up for these students. To provide them with personal/social skills & tools that they can utilize. To challenge rules that may deny them access to opportunities or services. To be their voice, a listening ear, and sense of support at all times. Does this require acts of bravery on our part? Absolutely. Will we encounter individuals who consistently come from a place "no"? For sure. But will our unwavering determination inspire others and eventually be recognized? With time. And we will be on our way towards the development of high aspirations & support for every child.
This Thursday, May 8th, SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) encourages you to wear GREEN in support of Children's Mental Health Awareness. "Listen, Don't Label. Ask, Don't Fear." As advocates, let's help them to raise awareness. Visit http://www.pasocpartnership.org/resources/childrens-mh-awareness-week for more information.
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