Columbia Schools Provide Vital Link to Mental Health Resources

By Paul J. Prim Last updated Aug 29, 2022

COLUMBIA, Miss. (WDAM) – As Minority Mental Health Month draws to a close, a school district in Pine Belt wants parents and students to know that mental health resources are available.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in seven children between the ages of 10 and 19 suffers from mental health problems. Unfortunately, many remain unrecognized and untreated.

Audrey Ward, a behavioral specialist at Columbia Public Schools, said the district’s goal is to meet the mental health needs of every student. This year, the district launched a new initiative that Ward says will make a big difference for teachers and students.

“We’re implementing something called Yale Ruler, and it’s a social-emotional learning program,” she said. “This whole first year is centered on the staff. We work on ourselves and, as adults, on what we bring each day. We really look at our emotions and attitudes and how they impact our students. »

According to the Centers for Disease Control, students with poor mental health struggle with school, grades, decision-making, and overall health.

Pine Belt Mental Health, Youth Villages and Canopy Children’s Solutions offer services for anyone in need of assistance.

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