Throughout the past year, our PAWS (Peer Alliance for Wellness Support) group has worked collaboratively to decrease the stigma of mental health, improve our school culture and make a positive impact on those around us. Thanks to a grant from Tri-Star Charitable Foundation and leadership from the Barb Smith Suicide Resource & Response Network, Nouvel Catholic Central was able to host a safeTALK training on campus. The participants ranged from high school students, NCC teachers, guidance department, athletics department, parents and board of trustees.
When asked why it was important to bring this training to Nouvel, Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Boros, shared "It is no secret that depression and anxiety are on the rise and our school community is far from immune to these issues. However, by working together we all have the ability to be the change and save a life. From coaches to peers and teachers to office professionals, we are all vital to preventing suicide and allowing each and every person we encounter know that they are loved and valued. We are so excited to have the opportunity to have Barb Smith here to provide us with this invaluable training opportunity!"
Additionally, when asked about their experience from the student perspective, Tony Kamano, junior, and Onna Zeleniuk, senior, shared that they felt that all student participants were able to take away valuable information from the training. "We learned different ways to check in on friends and why it's so important that others know they have people they can turn to." "I've already noticed a difference. It's great to see that even as students, we can work together to provide a safer, more open and understanding campus."
Parent, Bethany Warezak shared, “I’m so thankful to Mrs. Boros for organizing this very important training for our community. I feel empowered and aware because of Barb Smith’s class.”