As hallways in Niagara schools are bustling with activity again, the topic of student mental health and wellbeing has just become more visible after 164 schools uncovered their Wellness Wall-program.
Niagara’s two major school boards, NCDSB and DSBN both collaborated with Pathstone mental health to theme walls in high-traffic areas to spark conversation about supporting students and caring about mental health while balancing life and studies.
Topics vary between grade level, but include messages about Back to School Prep & Stress Management, Social Media Risks & Responsibilities, Being an Upstander and Ending Bullying, Body Positivity & Self Love, and Being That Person, Because Everyone needs Someone.
The goal, said Pathstone, is to provide opportunities to talk, take action and suport fellow students.
On Monday, at Prince of Wales school in Thorold, two students were given the task of “building” out the wall along with principal Brad Mayhew.
“The Wellness Wall is one more strategy being implemented in our school to promote mental health awareness and well-being for students. It allows students to support one another and take on a more active role to become more aware of their own mental health and that of others. Kids have enjoyed being able to connect with others in a positive manner through this student engagement effort.”
If students have a concern, they can visit the wall, and scan the QR code to be taken to Pathstone’s website where they can be linked immediately to a counsellor who can help.
“We are just a phone call away,” said Kim Rossi, director of PR and philantrophy at Pathstone.
Currently Pathstone hosts in-person walk in clinics in 9 areas across Niagara.
They are reachable 24/7 through the Crisis & Support line, at 1-800-263-4944.
