Overview
There are a variety of resources, organizations, and state agencies available to schools that are working to improve school mental health and address student wellness. Key resources are highlighted below, and key places to explore include:
Resource Highlights
Fact Sheet
Our two-page Fact Sheets detail key research and steps that parents, schools, and policymakers can take to improve an issue impacting children’s mental health.
Download the Fact Sheet: Strengthening Student Mental Health
Classroom WISE Resource Modules
This series of six modules, part of the Classroom WISE (Well-Being Information and Strategies for Educators), is a collection curated by the National Center for School Mental Health and the Mental Health Technology Transfer Center (MHTTC) Network.
Universal Screening
Universal Screening is a key opportunity for students to identify their own skills and strengths that they can use when facing challenges, and a best practice that can identify anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts in youth and then connect those students to resources.
Mental Health Literacy Units of Instruction
In 2021, lessons for elementary, middle and high school students were released which focus on developing the skills that students need to maintain mental health and wellbeing and recognize and support others who may be struggling. There were created in partnership with Department of Public Instruction, school staff, parents, and youth.
Download the lesson plans for K4 through 12th Grade: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
School-Based Peer-Led Wellness Programs in Wisconsin
Students are actively helping their peers and addressing youth mental health in school districts throughout the state. School-based peer-led wellness programs are in place in 300 schools or districts, reaching the majority of Wisconsin’s 421 school districts. Youth leading these groups, along with their adult advisors, help to improve mental health and wellness in their school communities, which often radiates out to their broader community. A variety of programs are in place, including Hope Squad, NAMI Raise Your Voice Club, REDgen School, and Sources of Strength. Each dot of the map represents a school or district participating in one of these peer-led wellness programs.
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Schools can access a variety of comprehensive resources from DPI.
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