Starting this academic year, the BLS clinical team composed of 2 school-based psychologists (Dr. Prosper and Dr. Kaye from Children’s Hospital), 3 social workers (Ms. Vasquez, Ms. Wang, and Ms. Abrha), and 3 school psychologists (Ms. Clougher, Mr. Lo, and Ms. Miller) are launching a mental health initiative (one of many to come, stay tuned!) to help raise mental health awareness, increase knowledge about how to increase socio-emotional wellness and decrease emotional turmoil, and promote overall wellness. This mental health initiative will consist of sharing a SEL (socio-emotional learning and wellness) tip every week (on Mondays). Today, Tuesday, October 10 has been named World Mental Health Day by the World Health Organization. The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. Today is thus a great day to start our mental health initiative of SEL tip of the week. So here goes: · Research has shown time and time again that the leading risk factor making individuals highly vulnerable to developing a mental health disorder is social isolation, alienation, and rejection. Furthermore, research has found that having at least one person in our life that understands us and cheers us on is a great protective factor for mental health difficulties. o SEL tip of the week: “Identify Your Person” Take some time today or this week to identify and/or remind ourselves of at least one person we can count on for emotional support and validation be it a friend, peer, co-worker, classmate, teacher, coach, guidance counselor, administrator, parent, extended family member, neighbor, etc. In addition, being kind to one another, embracing each other’s differences, and being curious about others and not judgmental can go a long way in reducing social isolation and alienation and therefore increasing mental wellness. Have a good week! Sincerely, The BLS Clinical Team