May 2021

Summer is just right around the corner and whether you are traveling, vacationing, or doing nothing, we would like to remind you to practice social distancing and wash your hands (as needed). Here are some ideas that you can bounce back when you run out of things to do while you're in summer mode...or share it with someone you think may enjoy some of these activities. We hope you all take care of your physical and mental health!

Learning Objectives:

Students will learn fun ways to enjoy their summer.
Students will practice mental and physical activities that will keep them healthy.

Pre-Test

I know what I want to do for summer.
I have a list of ideas to keep me healthy.
I am up for a challenge this summer to bring back my physical and mental health.

Create a bucket list!

Summer is one of the best ways to catch up with yourself. That break allows you to reflect on the school year and gives you time to be creative with your time. Create a bucket list of all the things you wish to accomplish. Try to challenge yourself by listing different activities that will boost your mental, physical, spiritual and psychological strength!

Activities to try on your own!

Pet a dog
Try deep breathing
Use a stress ball
Practice gratitude

Exercise with a friend
Eat a healthy meal
Try some yoga
Go for a nature walk

Go to sleep earlier
Read a good book
Try mandala coloring
Keep a journal

Pray or take part in an organized religion
Practice meditation
Serve your community
Build your own rituals

Post-Test

I know what I want to do for summer.
I have a list of ideas to keep me healthy.
I am up for a challenge this summer to bring back my physical and mental health.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month! During this month, we celebrate and recognize the mental health of all individuals who are persevering through days that are challenging and days that are easy. This week, we would like to dedicate this lesson to join the national movement to raise awareness about mental health. Please know that if you or someone you know is living with a mental illness, you are not alone. Since the pandemic, the mental well-being of many individuals have become alarming, as people faced all kinds of new stress, anxiety, etc...Together, we can break the stigma and shed light on how we can advocate and support one another!

Learning Objectives:

Students will learn how to break the stigma on mental illness.
Students will learn about self-care and how to find coping skills that are helpful to them.

Pre-Test

I know what stigma means.
I am capable of taking time for self-care.
I am familiar with the different types of mental illness.

What is Stigma?

According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary online, stigma means, "a mark of shame or discredit." Stigma is the idea of putting labels on someone. That individual then lives with that label.

There are at least three types of stigmas:

Stereotypes - attitudes about a group of people.
Prejudice - a preconceived opinion, agreeing with the stereotypes.
Discrimination -an unfair treatment based on prejudice.

How do you Combat Stigma on Mental Health?

In order to reduce the stigma on mental health, we must educate ourselves and others the impact on how the stigma affects those who live with a mental illness. Mental health shouldn't be a taboo topic that cannot be addressed. Unfortunately, in some culture, mental illness is frowned upon and any dialogue surrounding mental health is highly avoided. However, when we know better, we do better. That begins with us to educate ourselves so that we can educate others. By reducing the stigma on mental illness, together, we can advocate and support one another to live healthier and receive the treatment one needs.