Addressing Life Stressors in High School

The Salinas Union High School District (SUHSD) Wellness Center at Alisal High School meets each student\u27s academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs to achieve their aspirations. Many students are experiencing mental health challenges during this period in their lives. Staff shortages, lack of family support, and lack of healthy coping mechanisms lead to increased needs of mental health resources. This project addresses students\u27 lack of resources for life stressors and addresses the need for more resources. The project consisted of implementing short presentations on communication, healthy/unhealthy relationships, and self-esteem to about 470 students. The findings from this project showed that 71% of students found this information helpful and that the information they received increased their awareness about identifying potential stressors and ways to practice self care. It’s recommended that the agency continue to provide students with these PowerPoints to promote healthy coping skills and allow for student engagement