Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental health affects every part of our lives — our relationships, performance, and overall well-being. As we honor Mental Health Awareness Month this May, it's vital to remind ourselves and others that support is always within reach. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or thoughts of self-harm, you are not alone. There are trusted, confidential resources available 24/7 to help in times of crisis.

Crisis and Suicide Prevention Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
  📞 Call or text 988
  💬 Chat at 988lifeline.org
  Available 24/7, the 988 Lifeline connects you to trained counselors for free, confidential support for mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress.

• Crisis Text Line
  📱 Text HOME to 741741
  A free service available 24/7, connecting you with a trained crisis counselor via text. Ideal for those who may prefer texting over talking.

• Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ Youth Support)
  📞 Call 1-866-488-7386
  📱 Text START to 678678
  💬 Chat at thetrevorproject.org
  Specialized support for LGBTQ+ youth in crisis.

• YouthLine (Teens Helping Teens)
  📞 Call 1-877-968-8491
  📱 Text teen2teen to 839863
  Trained teen volunteers offer support under adult supervision. Available weekdays from 4-10 pm, with adult counselors at other times.

Referral Services

• Washington Mental Health Referral Services for Teens and Children
  Referral Website
  📞 Call 833-303-5437

• Psychiatric Urgent Care at Seattle Children’s offers same-day in-person and virtual (video) visits for children and teens ages 4 through 17 who need urgent mental health support but do not need the services of an emergency department.

In today’s world, kids face unique pressures that previous generations never encountered, from nonstop screen time and social media to the complexities of growing independence. But with intentional communication, support, and guidance, families can create a safe space for teens to navigate these challenges and grow into emotionally healthy adults.

Why it matters
Mental health is just as vital as physical health. Talking about emotions helps:

• Reduce stigma
• Normalize ups and downs
• Strengthen family bonds
• Build resilience

How to start the conversation
Keep it simple and consistent. Even small check-ins show you care:

• “How are you feeling today, really?”
• “Anything on your mind?”
• “What’s been stressing you out?”

Helpful tools

• ParenTeen Connect: Videos and prompts for talking about screen time, independence, and emotions.
• Let Grow: Encourages kids to build confidence by doing real-life tasks (laundry, cooking, errands).

You don’t need all the right words. What matters most is that your child feels heard, supported, and loved. Mental health is a journey — one you can walk together as a family.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, take a moment to check in with your child. Use tools like ParenTeen Connect and Let Grow to spark conversations, empower growth, and nurture a home environment where mental wellness is a priority.

SBLSD Events:

🎬 Screenagers documentary viewing
May 5-19, SBLSD families can stream the documentary “Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age” for free. 
Register for online viewing.

🧠 Behavior Bridges Workshop: Preventing Challenging Behaviors
When: Wed, May 28 | Time: 5:30-7 pm
Where: Victor Falls Elementary | Childcare provided (ages 5+)
Register online.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to shine a light on mental wellness and remind ourselves that mental health is more than just the absence of illness. It’s a dynamic, multifaceted part of our overall well-being that deserves recognition, support, and care.

Mental wellness isn't built on a single factor. It's shaped by a wide range of elements: emotional resilience, social connections, physical health, access to support, sense of purpose, and even our environment. When one area is out of balance, it can affect the others — just like a wheel missing a spoke.

This month, we encourage everyone to reflect on their mental health, check in with loved ones, and explore ways to strengthen the various aspects of their well-being. Whether it’s through therapy, exercise, creative expression, meaningful conversations, or simply rest, every step counts. Visit sumnersd.org/wellness for additional mental health and wellness resources.

If you or someone you know is in crisis or mental distress, please call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

What’s the impact of screens on our kids? Stream this free documentary

As we head into Mental Health Awareness Month, educate your family and friends about the impacts of social media and technology on our children’s mental health and well-being.

Starting May 5 through May 19, SBLSD families will have the opportunity to stream the documentary “Screenagers: Growing Up in the Digital Age” for free on demand. You can register in advance for online viewing.

An optional opportunity for families to connect and discuss their thoughts after watching the documentary will be held May 19. Registered participants will receive an invite.

About Screenagers:

Are you watching kids scroll through life, with their rapid-fire thumbs and a six-second attention span? Physician and filmmaker Delaney Ruston saw that happening with her own kids which started her on a question to delve into how it might affect their development. Through poignant, and unexpectedly funny stories, along with surprising insights from authors, psychologists, and brain scientists, Screenagers reveals how tech time impacts kids’ development and also offers solutions on how adults can empower their kids to best navigate the digital world to find balance.