Through the generosity of the Ryan Patrick O’Shea Foundation, on January 26th, twenty-one peer (student) leaders and seven adult leaders were trained to participate in Sources Of Strength; a national program whose mission is to create a culture promoting wellness, where students feel comfortable to get help when they are struggling emotionally, feel overwhelmed or suicidal, or are having a tough time with anger, anxiety or depression.
The program acknowledges a silent truth: students are likely more aware of friends or classmates who are struggling sooner than most caring adults and their influences on the behaviors of their friends and peers cannot often be matched by adults. Harnessing those truths, when peers leaders work together with caring adults, students can get the help they need. Through the program, peer leaders aren’t encouraged to become psychiatrists; they are strengthened with resources to recognize the needs of their peers before they become critical. With knowledge of prevention and a referral to a caring adult, the stigma of mental health is reduced, the community is stronger and help is available.
As the academic year progresses, our peer leaders will kickstart a community-wide campaign highlighting both our collective and individual Sources of Strength. We look forward to observing our students exemplify the distinct strength, hope, and courage that define the unique spirit of SHA.