As National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month observed in September, North Attleborough High School is continuing its commitment to supporting student mental health alongside its community partners.
On Thursday, Aug. 21, freshmen participating in the district’s annual Step-Up Day received mental health awareness kits, which were provided by the Jed Foundation (JED) and the Red Sox Foundation. The kits included a journal, an adult coloring book, colored pencils, a fidget ring, mindfulness cards, resources from JED and more.
“North Attleborough High School’s partnership with JED has helped us ensure our students and families are receiving the most comprehensive support for their mental wellness and any mental health struggles that might arise while they’re at the high school,” said Philip Allessi, clinical leader and school psychologist. “It’s a partnership which recognizes that our student success is just not in the classroom, but also in learning the skills necessary to live a happy and healthy life after graduation.”
North Attleborough High School was among a select group of schools chosen to receive the kits through their involvement in the JED High School Program.
“North Attleborough High School’s commitment to supporting student wellbeing is clear. These kits are a simple but powerful way to remind students that their mental health matters,” said JED School Mental Health Specialist Krystal Skaggs.
The KyleCares Foundation and JED enrolled North Attleborough High School in their JED High School Program in 2021. As part of this initiative, JED works to develop long-term strategies to address mental health and wellness. Since its enrollment in the program, JED and KyleCares have partnered with the district’s Active Minds chapter, a student-run organization focused on prioritizing students’ mental health, on numerous programs and initiatives.
For resources and information, visit jedfoundation.org or dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.