Explore Mental Wellness: AHS Hosts Engaging Mental Health Fair in Athens!

On April 30, Athens High School hosted its third mental health fair, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Week. This event aimed to spotlight the importance of mental wellness and self-care. It provided students with valuable resources to manage stress and mental health challenges.

Various local organizations participated, including the Family Resource Center and the Limestone County Mental Health Center. Students explored these booths to learn about the mental health services available to them. The Athens-Limestone Hospital and Thrive Alabama also offered insights into self-care strategies. An engaging highlight was therapy dogs from Luminous Counseling Services, bringing joy and comfort to students.

The fair was organized by the Mike Jones Chapter of Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society and the Active Minds Club. They also led other initiatives throughout the week, such as Awareness Wednesday, where students donned green to show their support. Additionally, a door decorating contest inspired creativity, with hallway doors decorated with messages promoting kindness and positivity.

Social media buzzed with students sharing their experiences from the fair, showing a growing trend towards openness about mental health issues. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, mental health awareness is crucial, especially among youth, as 1 in 5 teens experiences a mental health condition. This fair not only educated students about resources but also fostered a supportive community.

Active Minds officers conducted A.S.K. (Acknowledge, Support, Keep in Touch) training for peers, emphasizing the power of support in mental health. This approach aligns with expert views that peer support plays a vital role in mental wellness. Mental health professionals have long emphasized that understanding and connection can significantly impact recovery and resilience.

Overall, the mental health fair at Athens High School was a significant step in promoting awareness and support among students, paving the way for healthier conversations about mental health in the community.

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