The Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District (LVJUSD) is committed to supporting the mental health needs of our students. In partnership with mental health agencies in our community, we’re building a network of resources to ensure that our students have access to mental health information and supports. Our website is a comprehensive, curated mental health website for our students and families that includes contacts for our local mental health partners. In addition, this website includes definitions and warning signs, book recommendations from the Livermore Public Library, and videos chosen specifically to aid in opening dialogue and providing a path forward regarding mental health concerns. 

Good mental health is critical to children’s success in school and life. Research demonstrates that students who are taught and learn social–emotional skills function better in all aspects of their lives. School climate, classroom behavior, on-task learning, academic achievement and students’ sense of connectedness and well-being all improve, which is why our Choose Love Program is such a valuable asset to our overall curriculum.  Mental health is not simply the absence of mental illness, but also encompasses social, emotional, and behavioral health and the ability to cope with life’s challenges. Left unmet, mental health problems are linked to costly negative outcomes such as academic and behavior problems, dropping out, and delinquency.

Source Credit: National Association of School Psychologists

Mental Health Awareness in Schools

According the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the start of many mental health conditions most often occurs in adolescence. Half of individuals living with mental illness experience onset by the age of 14. This number jumps to 75% by the age of 24. One in five youths live with a mental health condition, but less than half of these individuals receive needed services. Undiagnosed, untreated, or inadequately treated mental health conditions can affect a student’s ability to learn, grow, and develop.

Schools provide a unique opportunity to identify and support mental health needs by serving students where they already are. School personnel can play an important role in recognizing the early warning signs and symptoms of an emerging mental health condition and in linking students with effective services and supports.

Teachers, support staff, administrators, and parents throughout our district are being trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid. This program helps adults identify the signs and symptoms of a mental health disorder and to learn the skills for connecting our students with supports and services. 

Breaking the Stigma

Talking about Mental Health

Article: How to Talk to Your Children About War