A mental health service is stepping up to help school counselors in the Ysleta Independent School District. Emergence Health Network (EHN) recently trained around 100 counselors in mental health first aid.
This training equips counselors with essential skills to support students dealing with mental health challenges. Over eight hours, participants learn how to handle situations like panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, and substance abuse.
Luis Chavarria, EHN’s Community Training Director, shared, “The Mental Health First Aid Youth Program gives counselors an action plan for helping young people facing mental health challenges. It’s crucial to connect them to professionals when needed.”
He also pointed out that mental health struggles don’t require a diagnosis. Students may experience anxiety, depression, or emotional stress from various life situations. Proper training can significantly impact their lives.
School counselor Lucy Gonzalez from Alicia R. Chacón Elementary School echoed this sentiment. She said, “It’s our duty to assist students who are struggling. Having trained staff on campus means we can provide immediate help when a crisis arises.”
Counselors who complete this training receive a certification that needs renewing every year. EHN also offers this training to other school staff and community members, aiming to broaden understanding of mental health issues and enhance immediate support networks.
This initiative comes at a crucial time. Recent changes in Texas law, specifically Senate Bill 12, now require schools to get written consent from parents before providing mental health services. This law, effective September 1, also mandates that parents be notified of any alterations to these services.
In light of this new legislation, Ysleta ISD confirmed that counselors undergo this training every three years for recertification.
Enhancing mental health support in schools not only meets legislative requirements but also fosters a healthier and safer environment for students. As mental health issues are on the rise among youth—recent surveys indicate that 1 in 5 students experience mental health challenges—investing in training like this is more critical than ever.
Schools that prioritize mental health training can create a supportive atmosphere, helping educate teachers and staff so they can better assist students in need.
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