Mental Health Resources for Students

The mental health of students is a growing concern for parents and educators everywhere. For too long, the American education system has put high levels of responsibility and stress on students. 

At BlueSky, we do our best to support and encourage our students. During the school year, our team of support professionals are in constant contact with students. But over summer breaks, students don’t have the same level of support. Below, we’ve created a list of mental health resources that students may use at their own discretion.

Mindful

While talking to someone about mental health is always recommended, students can benefit from doing some research into these topics to better understand their feelings and the world of mental health. Mindful is the voice of the emerging mindfulness community. The site introduces mindfulness through courses, training, personal stories, news, advice and directories. As a Public Benefit Corporation, it aims to help people achieve better health and cultivate a compassionate society.

Change to Chill

Change to Chill by Allina Health provides free mindfulness and stress relief resources for teenagers. The website houses informational articles, activities, and lesson plans. The goal is to help teens become aware of the things that stress them out and equip them with relevant tools and resources to better manage stress and anxiety, so they can live happier, more resilient lives. Included on the site is a stress quiz that helps users figure out the root of their stress and how to best manage it.

Mindfulness for Teens

Being a teenager is stressful. Most teens haven’t yet developed effective methods to reduce that stress. Mindfulness for Teens is a resource for teenagers who want to learn to live a mindful lifestyle. The site focuses on methods to use mindfulness to handle stress. Resources include videos, downloadable meditations, and informational articles. Behind the site is Dr. Dzung Vo, MD, FAAP, a pediatrician specializing in adolescent medicine at British Columbia Children’s Hospital, clinical associate professor at the University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine, and author of The Mindful Teen: Powerful Skills to Help You Handle Stress One Moment at a Time.

Down Dog

Movement is a great way to destress, boost confidence, and increase focus. Physical activity releases endorphins, which balance our mind and body’s reaction to stress. Down Dog is an app that offers fitness training videos. Options include yoga, HIIT, meditation, running, and barre. Users can select the length of time, level of intensity, focus, and music for the class. This is a great option for personalized fitness classes that you can take from anywhere.

BlueSky is here to help

At BlueSky, online learning is personal. We pride ourselves on our one-on-one support and student resources. Your advisor, counselor, and social worker are always available, even when school isn’t in session. Don’t hesitate to contact them if you need to, even to only say hi.

Of course, students shouldn’t disregard professional help. But these resources can stand in when they need support. For students needing immediate help, there are call and text lines open 24/7 to assist them. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).