Children's Mental Health Awareness Day

In recognition of Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, and because we know spring can be a stressful time for our students, It’s important that we take time to check in as a community and be sure we all know how to access support when needed. Additionally, many students and parents have come to us with questions regarding the impact of social media on student well-being.

One common question was about the recently released Netflix series, “13 Reasons Why,” which is focused on a teen dying from suicide and revealing the reasons for her death through a series of tapes. You may have seen commentaries on the series in the press. It’s important for our community to be aware of films, social media, apps and other technology that may have an impact on our kids. It’s important to recognize this has been a concern in our city and want you to be aware. At the bottom of this memo, you will find links to important information on stress management, warning signs for teen’s mental health concerns and talking points about the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why.”

Stress management:

·         Stress Management and Coping

·         American Academy of Child Adolescent Psychiatry

Warning Signs:

·         Mental Health and Teens: Watch for Danger Signs

·         Preventing Youth Suicide: Tips for Parents & Educators

13 Reasons Why:

·         Thirteen Reasons Why Talking Points

·          For Parents: Thirteen Reasons Why

If you have questions about your students possible mental health concerns, please contact our school social worker, psychologist, counselor or nurse.

Sincerely,

Office of Communication 

Minneapolis School District