Hough Mental Health Summit 2026

This class explores how dance can be an effective and healthy way for high school students to manage stress. Students will  learn that physical movement through dance helps release tension, improve mood, increase energy levels, and promote overall mental well-being.  We will  discuss common sources of stress for teenagers, including academics, extracurricular activities, social pressures, and future planning. Students will learn how movement can serve as a positive outlet for emotions and self-expression. The class emphasizes that dance does not require advanced skills or experience; anyone can benefit from moving to music in a supportive and judgment-free environment. 

This class focuses on journaling as a healthy and effective strategy for managing stress and promoting emotional well-being. Students will learn how writing about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences can help them process emotions, gain perspective on challenges, and reduce feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. Throughout the session, students will explore different journaling techniques, including gratitude journaling, reflection prompts, goal setting, and free writing. They wil practice expressing themselves in a safe and private way while identifying positive coping skills and personal strengths. We will also emphasize the importance of self-awareness and how regular journaling can improve problem-solving, emotional regulation, and overall mental health. 

This session will explore the powerful connection between music and mental health. Students will learn how music can influence emotions, reduce stress, improve mood, and support overall well-being. The session will discuss how listening to music, singing, playing instruments, and creating music can serve as healthy coping strategies during times of stress, anxiety, or emotional challenges.Students will examine how different types of music can affect feelings and energy levels and reflect on how music plays a role in their daily lives. The class will emphasize the importance of using music intentionally to promote relaxation, motivation, self-expression, and emotional regulation. 

  This session will introduce students to art therapy techniques as a creative and healthy way to manage stress, express emotions, and support mental well-being. Students will learn how artistic activities such as drawing, painting, coloring, and mixed-media projects can provide a positive outlet for feelings that may be difficult to express through words. Throughout this session, students will  explore the connection between creativity and emotional health, using art as a tool for self-reflection, relaxation, and personal growth. They will participate in guided art activities designed to encourage self-expression, build self-confidence, and promote mindfulness.Artistic skill is not required, as the focus is on the creative process rather than the final product. 

This session helps  students understand the causes and effects of test anxiety while learning practical strategies to build confidence and reduce stress before, during, and after exams. Students will explore common symptoms of test anxiety, identify personal stress triggers, and discuss how anxiety can impact academic performance and overall well-being. Through interactive discussions and engaging activities, participants will practice effective coping techniques such as deep breathing, positive self-talk, mindfulness, time management, and study planning. The session empowers students with tools to manage anxiety, improve focus, and approach tests with greater confidence, resilience, and a positive mindset 

This session helps students explore the relationship between social media use and mental health while developing healthy habits for navigating the digital world. Students will examine both the benefits and challenges of social media, including its impact on self-esteem, stress, anxiety, sleep, relationships, and overall well-being. Participants will learn how to recognize the effects of excessive screen time, social comparison, cyberbullying, and online pressure. The session also provides practical strategies for creating a positive digital balance, setting healthy boundaries, managing online stress, and using social media in ways that support mental wellness. Students will leave with a greater understanding of how their online experiences influence their emotions and behaviors, along with tools to make informed and healthy choices both online and offline.