Evidence-based mental health education program 'be nice.' (created by the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan) recently hosted their Seventh Annual West Side Student Symposium in Grand Rapids, welcoming hundreds of students and staff from Michigan schools to strengthen mental health awareness and suicide prevention in schools.
With suicide standing as the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 24, the 'be nice.' school program plays an essential role in empowering young leaders to educate their school communities on mental health. The annual be nice. Student Symposium provides a unique platform for these students to come together and gain a deeper understanding of the role they play in cultivating a supportive school environment. Attendees, including 400 from 29 schools on the west side of Michigan, took part in hands-on activities, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities designed to build resilience and enhance mental health support within their schools.
"Mental health is an essential part of well-being, especially for young people navigating their formative years," said Matt Cook, Vice President of Community Relations at Lake Michigan Credit Union. "LMCU is dedicated to building thriving communities, and we are proud to partner with 'be nice.' to empower students with the knowledge and tools they need to support mental health in their schools and beyond."
"This event is about giving students the training and confidence they need to support one another in a meaningful way. Thanks to LMCU's support, we're bringing students together to foster critical discussions about mental health," said Christy Buck, Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan - be nice. "When students are educated and empowered, they become a powerful force for change in their own schools, helping to break down stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health."
Key Symposium highlights included interactive group discussions on barriers to effective programming, strategies to foster mental well-being, and workshops to reinforce the simplicity and effectiveness of the 'be nice.' action plan. Eric Hipple, former Detroit Lion quarterback, 'be nice.' Ambassador, and mental health advocate, was also a participant and guest speaker at this year's symposium. Students left the event with connections to other student leaders, as well as activities and ideas to encourage ongoing education, engagement and mental health awareness throughout the year.
Make a difference by taking the pledge to adhere to the 'be nice.' action plan, tuning into past webinars specifically touching on youth and mental health, and more by visiting 'be nice.'
Courtesy of West Michigan Woman.
Photos courtesy of Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan-be nice.
