Mental health. One of the most important aspects of one’s life, shaping who they are and who they become. Where can people who struggle with their mental health go to when they feel alone?
By: Jazlynn Borda & Serenity Ceja
As high school students at Redwood, you may be struggling with your own mental health and may be too afraid to speak up about it. However, here at Redwood High School we care deeply about your physical and emotional health. We want what is best for you, and there are many resources on campus to help tend to your struggles: people, places, and even hotlines.
Some of the main people who offer help at Redwood are our Redwood Councilors. Meant to help, support, and encourage. They are more than people who help you set up your academic career. They are here to support you. We have many councilors on campus, ranging from your grade to your last name. Those people include 9th Grade A-L: Aubrey Buchanan, 9th Grade M-Z: Maria Cabrera, 10th Grade A-L: Sonia Torres, 10th Grade M-Z: Luis Matta, 11th Grade A-L: Angelica Jauregui, 11th Grade M-Z: Roberto Mariscal, 12th Grade A-L: Jazmine Martin, and 12th Grade M-Z: Calvin Cole.
What are some signs that you are struggling with your mental health? You probably don’t know it, but it is extremely common for teenagers to have a mental health illness and not know what is causing it.
According to Jennifer Rivera, she says, “one thing that I’ve noticed that indicates mental health illness is lack of motivation, not wanting to do their homework or not wanting to be involved, or being alone.”
Indicating signs of mental health illness can’t be noticeable at times, and may just be seen as being tired. If you are usually a student who never procrastinates, is very social, and is always on track with your academics, and you are showing these signs, don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
However, there are far more symptoms of mental health decline. These include persistent sadness, intense worry, social withdrawal, extreme mood swings, and altered sleep or appetite. All of these are signs you may be struggling with your mental health. Don’t feel alone if you are experiencing these symptoms because you aren’t.
So many people struggle in silence, and this only worsens their health. It is important to speak up about what you feel. You may be thinking, there are so many other things I should be worrying about, and that your mental health is the least of your worries, but you’re wrong. Your health should ALWAYS come first.
Why is mental health important? What does it affect? Mental health can alter your way of living. You are at risk of increasing chronic disease risk, weakening immunity, and fostering unhealthy behaviors. Some more common effects are lack of sleep, too much sleep, low motivation, and feeling out of place. Not to mention how your body’s functions will be severely unhealthy. It’s important to put yourself in a safe environment and get the help you need to feel your best.
Maybe you want to speak up, but are too scared to be judged or have everyone know your business. Well, fear not because our councilors are meant to keep everything between you and them. Luis Matta, a counselor here at Redwood, says, “We want to reinforce that and remind students that it is confidential what we discuss,” showing you are in a safe place when talking to your counselor, and not to mention all the other anonymous ways to get assistance with your mental health. There are always hotlines and communities you can join online to talk and improve your mental health.
Your mental health is valued here at Redwood by everyone. Family, Friends, Teachers, Staff, and counselors, there is always a place to go for help. All to your preference. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The sooner you ask, the sooner you heal. Prepare yourself for your future. Leave high school with a healthy mind and be ready for all the success you have to come by reaching out for help.
If you’re struggling to speak up and need to contact someone immediately, please call or message the following numbers.
(800) 273-8255-National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Text “go” to 741741 (24hrs a day)
Visalia Crisis Line (8:00-5:00) – (559) 627-1490
Visalia Crisis Line (after hours & weekends) • (559) 730-9922
Tulare County Warmline (24/7) • 1-877-306-2413
VUSD Safe School Helpline (8:00-5:00) – (559) 730-7999
Trevor Helpline (LG+) • 1-866-488-7386
Councilors:
9th Grade A-L: Aubrey Buchanan 730-7708 [email protected]
9th Grade M-Z: Maria Cabrera 730-7703 [email protected]
10th Grade A-L: Sonia Torres 730-7770 [email protected]
10th Grade M-Z: Luis Matta 730-7712 [email protected]
11th Grade A-L: Angelica Jauregui 730-7736 [email protected]
11th Grade M-Z: Roberto Mariscal 730-7391 [email protected]
12th Grade A-L: Jazmine Martin 730-7770 [email protected]
12th Grade M-Z: Calvin Cole 735-8171 [email protected].
Serenity Ceja
jazlynn borda delgado
Tags: clubs & lifestyles, mental health, rangers, Redwood, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, redwood journalism, redwood rangers, redwood sports, rhs, visalia ca
