State of the CIS Mental Health Initiative: Mental Health Awareness Month 2022

Author: Shubhra Endley, LCSW-S, CIS of Houston Director of Mental Health & Wellness

During this academic year as more of our students returned to in-person learning – many of them may have stepped onto a campus-experiencing a true first day of attending classes and meeting their new classmates and teachers beyond a computer screen.  

This adjustment to a “new normal” being on campus with new structure norms and after living for two years in unknowns which included the experiencing personal loss of loved ones has created unimaginable distress for students across the country.   

As a result, there is a brighter spotlight being shed on the depression, anxiety, and suicidality experienced by students today.  Professionals and experts are identifying what additional supports students and families need to be healthy and enhance well-being in our world. 

After experiencing two years of living through a disrupted world, there is an increased awareness regarding the importance of mental health –especially in regards to the mental well-being of students and families. 

Communities in Schools of Houston continues to emphasize the updated definition of the World Health Organization regarding mental health by not merely focusing on the absence of mental illness but providing the support necessary for our students to flourish today.   

This academic year Communities In Schools of Houston expanded the reach of the Mobile Mental Health Team to address the increasing needs of our students and families due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our team consists of licensed mental health professionals who provide supportive counseling at specific targeted campuses throughout the program year.  Additionally, we have created new and deeper partnerships to meet the mental health and wellness needs of our students and families.   

This month we will be highlighting the array of mental health and wellness services provided across 6 independent school districts and the Lone Star College System that support our students to not just survive but thrive as they continue their achieve in life journeys. 

Learn more about the CIS Mental Health Initiative.