Unity Week continued bringing our campus community together with Wednesday’s No Place for Hate (NPFH) presentation on mental health, a relatable topic that affects almost everyone in some way, shape, or form. Oftentimes, mental health can be overlooked or dismissed as a struggle, making it important to bring awareness to.
The discussion of mental health and mental conditions is surrounded by a constant stigma as it may be uncomfortable at times. However, there are students who are wrestling with their own mental health battles, unaware of what to do about it or too embarrassed to admit it. Thus, NPFH shared remarks on this subject and reminded students that they always have a place to talk.
“We want to show that it’s okay to be vulnerable and it’s totally fine to have these emotions because it’s not just like one person who’s having it,” said NPFH member Jaqueline Castillo (12).
The NP4H team who worked on this presentation, hosted on February 18th, highlighted common mental health disorders, important vocabulary, and statistics of students at San Juan Hills as well as across the country.
Attendees of the presentation heard from guest speaker Iris Vera, the peer support specialist at allcove San Juan Capistrano, who provided professional insight and shared community resources available for students.
“allcove San Juan Capistrano is a welcoming space for youth to connect, recharge, and access support. Whether you’re looking for community, mental health resources, or just a quiet moment to pause, allcove is here for you. Come as you are — you’re not alone,” according to allcove’s mission statement on their website.
The presenters also focused on creating a balanced lifestyle, wanting students to take away knowledge about how to work, study, and have fun all while keeping things under control.
“A lot of people focus only on school… rather than taking breaks and making sure that they themselves are feeling okay,” said NPFH member Lidia Muniz (12).
In order to relieve stress and mental health challenges, students are encouraged to take time for themselves and understand that it is okay to be vulnerable and seek help. According to the organizers, many students know about their resources but do not feel comfortable speaking up about them.
Unity week is about more than being aware, it is about taking action. By spotlighting mental health, No Place for Hate strives to create a campus culture where students feel supported, understood, and empowered to take care of themselves.
