New Mental Health Initiative Kicks off at Hopkins

During an all school assembly on Friday, February 2, student members of the Hopkins Peer Support Program introduced themselves to the Hopkins community to kick off the opening of a new mental health initiative involving juniors and seniors who are trained in providing assistance, guidance, and emotional support to their friends and classmates.

Each of the peer supporters, who are committed to increasing awareness of mental health issues and to fostering a supportive and positive school community, took time during assembly to share an issue they are currently dealing with as a way to show that everyone has challenges, fears, and room for growth. 

The initiative was kicked off with the tagline, “Your well-being matters to us and we are here to help.” 

Over the summer and during the fall term, Peer Supporters participated in training to learn the key skills they will need to be effective supporters to their fellow peers. Beginning this month, the peer Supporters will meet with students during the school day to offer support and guidance which could also include additional resources for receiving help.

Students can talk with a Peer Supporter about a wide range of topics, including academic challenges, social concerns, anxiety, stress, or any other issue. Discussions with a Peer Supporter are kept private unless there are concerns that rise to a level where mental health professionals are needed.

Following the introductions at assembly, the Peer Supporters held a fun and interactive quiz to share more information about the program and answer frequently asked questions.