Students and staff at Paris Junior High, Paris High School and Travis School of Choice are learning about mental health awareness this week. Mental Health Awareness Week is observed the first week of October. Promoting mental health awareness is essential for the well-being of students and staff.
Students and staff have been invited to come and listen to guest speaker, Julie Morris – Trauma Informed Specialist from DFPS, during their lunch. Morris and Paris ISD Social Worker Kameshia Cooper spoke about mental health being just as important as physical health, it is an essential aspect of our overall well-being. Recognizing warning signs and learning ways to maintain good mental health are valuable skills for students and staff.
There were opportunities for discussion and questions. Morris and Cooper each gave their own personal story about their lives and their own mental health. Cooper told the students, “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance. I’ve learned to walk through it and I’ve learned to dance through it. I can guarantee the storm won’t last and through it all, you will find your strength!” It’s important for individuals to know they’re not alone and have resources available. Students and staff were given ways they could reach out to someone for support.
Photo: PJH student Ze’Keilyn Williams ask the group a question during the presentation.
