Mental Health Matters to Everyone

Having to deal with everyday pressures can take a toll on us negatively, but it’s also important to prioritize your mental health. That being said, there are many counselors and resources available on campus for students who are struggling with mental health.
On campus, Mental Health Clinician Cesar Gonzalez is available to provide therapy services for students. A variety of coping mechanisms that he suggests students could utilize when stressed are exercising, listening to music, writing in a journal, coloring or drawing, and reaching out to friends for support.
Mr. Gonzalez has several ideas for dealing with stress.
“The best way to deal with stress is by acknowledging and becoming aware of what is causing it and learning to break things down, for example having lots of homework,” he said.
There are a variety of strategies that students can use to maintain good mental health. First, it’s important to acknowledge whether you’re in a good place or not. If not, you should reach out for support and become aware of your emotions.
“I deal with stress by reminding myself everything will be fine and going into any situation with a good mindset,” junior Emma Lopez shared.
Validating your emotions is important as it’s okay to feel the way you’re feeling and be aware that it is normal to experience mixed emotions throughout the day. Also, surrounding yourself with positive people in life and sustaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes eating, sleeping, and taking care of yourself physically, is a good way to take care of your mental health.
“A strategy I use to maintain good mental health is to make sure to not overwhelm myself with so much and take time for myself by hanging out with people I care about, or just watching TV.” stated junior Kimberly Pacheco.
There are many mental health resources available for students on campus. The school offers individual therapy services and crisis response, including risk assessments for suicidality and threat assessments. It also facilitates connections between students and various support systems, such as the link crew and clubs on campus.
Lead Mental Health Clinician Kristy Rangel provides animal-assisted psychotherapy with the help of her co-therapists, Jeter, Scout, and Judge. Therapy dogs have played a crucial role in reducing the stigma associated with receiving mental health services and have become a familiar presence to many of our students.
“Jeter, Scout, and the soon-to-be-joining Judge, are instrumental in fostering connections with the students, helping to lower barriers and create a safe, secure atmosphere for students to share their stories and process their emotions in a therapeutic environment” Rangel explained.
Students seeking assistance with their mental health can reach out for help in a variety of different ways. They can reach out to their academic counselor or teachers who can connect them to the resources on campus. Students can scan the QR code in the library to request support. They can also submit a student support form that counselors can respond to acquire the help they need.
Lastly, don’t be afraid of reaching out and asking for help because your mental health is what matters the most.