Mental health awareness is an important issue for all schools and educators, who are often the first line of defense for their students. Education professionals have recognized the impact that a student’s mental health has on learning and achievement, and they realize that there’s a great deal that can be done to help students with mental health issues. Teachers and students should be provided with ways to recognize signs of developing mental health problems, and there should be opportunities around the awareness and management of mental health crises, including the risk of suicide or self-harm. Because teens spend most of their day at school, it is important to have mental health awareness and education become part of their programs. When we empower students with the knowledge and encourage dialogue, students will be able to get the help they need. 

Kana Takahashi
Chief Executive Officer, MindNation