West NY News

Chautauqua Tapestry and the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County recently undertook a weeklong initiative at Westfield Academy and Central School aimed at promoting mental wellness among students. Their involvement, from March 28 to April 4, focused on enhancing students' resilience, self-care, and mental health awareness through various activities.

In collaboration with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Sources of Strength, the programs ‘It’s Real: Middle School’ and ‘It’s Real: High School’ were introduced to 6th and 9th graders, respectively. These evidence-based programs aim to help students identify emotional challenges and encourage them to seek support when necessary.

Throughout the week, students participated in activities designed to develop their real-life strengths. This included exercises in identifying trusted adults and learning daily self-care strategies, such as mindfulness, movement, yoga, and breathing techniques. These exercises underscored the importance of maintaining mental health and seeking help when needed.

Jake Hitchcock, Westfield's health teacher and Dean of Students, remarked on the initiative's success: “This was a great opportunity for the Middle School and High School Students of Westfield Academy & Central School to learn about Stress, Anxiety, and Mental Health Issues. The students learned about these topics through various teaching strategies and were given numerous resources to use both in and out of the classroom, thus opening more avenues for them to obtain assistance if needed. I would highly recommend this presentation to any schools or community organizations that would like additional information and resources regarding these topics."

Chautauqua Tapestry and the Suicide Prevention Alliance expressed their appreciation for being part of the Westfield Academy community, highlighting the school's dedication to wellness and hope. Further information can be accessed at TapestryCHQ.com and PreventSuicideCHQ.com.