Mental Health Resources for Educators

COVID-19 continues to be a backdrop for new challenges people are facing every day. Although schools are back in session, learning looks and feels very different this year. Educators, in particular, may be feeling the weight of new rules and regulations and heightened health and safety concerns. These cumulative stressors can impact mental health and wellness. In response, the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) and the Ohio Department of Education (ODE) are providing a new resource, the ABCs of Mental Health:

A: Ask yourself how you’re feeling.

B: Be aware of signs and symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and suicide.

C: Care for yourself and others.

This resource, available online at mha.ohio.gov/ABC, include a variety of tips, tools and supports to help educators acknowledge and become more aware of their feelings and any potential signs and symptoms or changes in behavior they may be experiencing, so they know where to turn for immediate support for themselves or a friend.

The ABCs of Mental Health were developed by Ohio’s leading suicide prevention experts with teachers, administrators, and school staff specifically in mind. “We want people to know that they’re not alone; that it’s OK, to not be OK,” said OhioMHAS Director Lori Criss. “We especially want all education professionals to know that what they are feeling is valid, that suicide is preventable, and that help is available.”

In addition, EnvisionEdPlus is offering a free, one-hour session called Take Five to Thrive. The training, developed in partnership with Miami University’s Center for School-Based Mental Health Programs and the Ohio Mental Health Network for School Success, offers education leaders practical strategies to support their teams and themselves. Participants will:

  • Discover five quick and easy activities for minimizing stress as individuals and in teams

  • Develop a strategy to replicate this training for your staff or team

  • Receive a virtual swag bag with resources, tools, and training options to manage stress all year

This live, virtual session is being offered on Wednesday, December 2 and Friday, December 4.

People feeling lonely and overwhelmed with emotions such as sadness, depression, and anxiety are encouraged to call the Ohio CareLine at 1-800-720-9616 to speak with a licensed mental health professional.

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