This is something I heard about a few weeks ago. My furious outrage needed time to get to the point of civility before being able to post about it.
A local woman volunteered to run a week long, free teaching at the local high school as part of their health program. It was about mental health. The school decided not to let her run the course because those in power didn't want to give the teens "ideas". (Hmmm, I wonder if the teacher's union had anything to say about this as well...)
The response by the school raises the question, "What kind of "ideas" do they mean?" That it's okay to ask for help? That being constantly overwhelmed is not a good thing? That depression or any other mental health challenges aren't a sign of weakness? What kind of "ideas" can come from learning symptoms and being made aware? Our young people already learn about sexual relations and STDs. Did that give them "ideas"?
How about learning some skills to deal with loss and the emotional roller coaster that we're thrown into by those situations? How about giving them the tools to overcome traumatic events or to stay well in the day to day grind? How about planting the "idea" that it isn't their fault if they find themselves struggling?
What if their parents live with mental health challenges? Genetics play a role in some cases. Shouldn't they know that?
Heaven forbid if one of these young people, after attending these classes, came forward as a victim of sexual or physical abuse...teens and children are most vulnerable. What if these classes gave them the courage to speak up? What if this is the only place where they learn the "idea" they have rights? That's definitely dangerous territory.
What if we armed these kids with the concept of wellness tools before they need them? How much of a difference would it make in their lives as adults? But we don't want to give them "ideas" do we?
How about giving any teen who may be in the midst of a difficult time some options because suicide isn't the only answer? What if this is the only opportunity to let them know they are not alone?
The tragedy here is by keeping silent, by snuffing out even a whisper of mental health dialog, by not opening the door, lives could be lost! It's that serious! What if this program gave someone else the knowledge about when to speak up as a friend, about when to seek an adult's help? The "idea" that lives deserved to be saved...shocking!
Changes in society's attitudes begins with the children. I am so very sad that our local high school is still in the dark ages.
Perhaps the staff could benefit from a week's teachings as well!
"But they and our fathers acted proudly, hardened their necks, and did not heed Your commandments." Neh 9:16
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The Robes
"Coming up behind Jesus, she (the woman who had bled for 12 years) touched the fringe of His robe." Luke 9:44 And she was heal...
The administrators of our school systems need our prayers in order that they may see truth and discern wisdom!
ReplyDeleteHaving been a teacher (at college level) I can understand a little bit the resistance. Perhaps, as you hinted at, perhaps if the volunteer offered to teach the program to the teachers, or buddied up with teacher(s). The school is responsible for what is taught there, and unless is it approved (school board, curriculum, accreditation) it is usually not supported. Also, if it is not a government approved program it often doesn't fly. BUT - such programs are so needed. It is sad that when you have someone so willing to share something so necessary that it couldn't happen. I hope this person doesn't give up and tries another approach. Often the alternative programs are move open to innovation. It is tragic when prevention is turned away. Can certainly understand your outrage.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your input and insight into the school side of things. Perhaps teaching the teachers is a good place to start. I'll pass that idea along. Blessings!
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