Take a deep breath. Students now have a place to relax and recharge.
The school’s Wellness Center is designed to help with stress and mental health for everyone. Students will now have a much-needed space to unwind from the pressures of high school life. This Wellness Center has been designed to help relieve stress and support mental health, and provide a sanctuary to help keep the balance of busy academic and social lives.
On October 8th, EHS Principal, Mr. Brian Hutchinson sent out an email regarding the opening of the new space. Located in room 25, right next to the health office, the Center is available during most hours of the school day – other than lunch and activity period.
The Wellness Center was created to promote wellness to our school and to improve students’ well being. School counselors shared how they envisioned the space, and emphasized the benefits of having a dedicated area to recharge during a busy or stressful school day.
One of the counselors, Mrs. Denise Connon, elaborates, “The Wellness Center provides a calm space where students can relax, meditate, or simply take a break from their busy school day. This area is designed to provide a peaceful environment for reflection and rejuvenation. EHS Counselors are available to work with students on techniques to manage stress and anxiety, including mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, and time management skills.”
It is extremely important to the members of staff that students’ mental health is being addressed and recognized so they can help in every way. The room is designed to be calming and welcoming, with natural lighting, cozy seating, and even mindfulness tools, life puzzles, coloring books and fidgety gadgets.
Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Sue Borgognone states, “As a school counselor, we are part of the wellness center as supervising the center. In this role, we will make sure students know that the wellness center is a place where students can come to decompress and take the time that they may need to get themselves to a place where they feel better and ready to go back to the classroom and process with their day. Students should also know that the counselors are available to speak to them if they need that.”
It is very helpful that the school’s counselors make themselves available at all times, and encourage students to reach out when they need their support. This outlook fosters a caring and open environment.
Mrs. Connon explains further, “We want students to leave the Wellness Center able to recognize the importance of mental well-being, identifying signs of stress or anxiety, and knowing when to seek help. The Wellness Center aims to equip students with knowledge, skills, and resources that they can carry with them beyond the school day. By focusing on mental health, coping strategies, available resources and physical health we hope to empower students to lead healthier, happier lives.”
Staff members want to make sure students leave the Wellness Center able to recognize the importance of mental well being, identify signs of stress or anxiety, and know when to seek help. The Wellness Center is here for every student, whether they need a quick breather or a place to process their tough emotions.
Remember, taking care of mental health is just as important as grades and outside school activities.
Breathe.
