Hoover AHHC (11th & 12th)

Overview: Students researched salient contemporary issues related to mental health. They designed various advocacy projects such as poster campaigns, infographics, PSAs, and outreach events to reduce the stigma around mental health issues and services.

Project Initiation: Seniors interviewed freshman about their knowledge about mental health issues and stigma attached to seeking mental health services. Seniors and juniors did personal reflections. Students were introduced to project partners - Mending Matters and Rady Children's Hospital - and the purpose of the project, to raise awareness of mental health concerns and reduce stigma associated with seeking mental health services. Seniors then planned and hosted an event "Positive Affirmation Wall". 

Project Exploration and Development: Students learned about mental health crises, disorders and treatment modalities. They researched treatment options on campus and in the community. Students learned the importance of destigmatizing mental health issues. Students also learned strategies for maintaining their own mental wellness. We hosted several guest speaker events and students created various campaigns to educate the Hoover student community. Following each event we had the opportunity to debrief and make changes to upcoming events. In English class, juniors completed an in-depth research project about as spect of mental health that interested them. Topics included depression and racism, eating disorders stigma in the Latinx community, etc. 

Project Revision and Exhibition: In English students working on research essays had opportunities for evaluation and revision of their work. Their final essays drove the development of the messages they wanted included in the mental health awareness activities and campaigns. In the senior classes, students worked in small groups to develop campaign posters and ideas for lunchtime and activities for Mental Health Awareness Month. They presented these to the class for peer feedback. They also completed personal reflections.

Teachers and Subjects: Elizabeth Lonnecker - English, Ellen Hohenstein - CCTE Mind Matters and Developing Future Mental Health Professionals

Industry Sector: Health Science and Medical Technology