National Mental Health Month emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, destigmatization and supporting our school communities. During the month of May we work to educate communities about mental health issues while advocating for accessible resources to ensure the wellbeing of all students and staff who are facing mental health challenges.
Mental Health Awareness Month began in the United States in 1949 and was started by Mental Health America (MHA). During the month of May, LACOE supports Mental Health America and other organizations interested in mental health promote mental health awareness through activities based on the annual theme. This year's theme is “Take Action for Mental Health” which emphasizes that we can all learn how to take action to improve our personal mental health and participate as part of the larger mental health movement.
The LACOE Mental Health and School Counseling Unit believes that all district and school staff play a vital role in fostering emotional well-being among students and adults. This May, during Mental Health Awareness Month, collaboration is key to creating a powerful impact on raising awareness, promoting healthy coping strategies, reducing stigma, building resilience, and ensuring that students have the support they need to thrive academically and emotionally.
RESOURCES
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The LACOE Mental Health and School Counseling Unit is providing the following professional development opportunities during the month of May:
School Social Work Academy
This training series provides support for school social workers during their first three years in the profession. During our May event, speaker Tory Cox will help develop your understanding of the Political Landscape in Schools and how to collaborate with key stakeholders.
When: May 1, 2025 | 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
View the flyer and registration information
Law and Ethics in School Mental Health
Designed to support school social workers and mental health providers working in schools. CEs are available for licensed and registered clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists and professional clinical counselors as well as licensed educational psychologists.
When: May 6, 2025 | 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
View the flyer and registration information
For ongoing mental health resources and professional development opportunities provided by LACOE, please sign up for the Mental Health and School Counseling Newsletter.
