Date

5-2025

Document Type

Capstone Project (Open Access)

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Health, Human Services and Public Policy

Major

Collaborative Health & Human Services

Abstract

Rates of anxiety and depression are too high among youth in Greenfield. Portola Butler High School is an alternative education institution serving students that struggled in traditional school environments. Many students at continuation schools deal with unique stressors such as academic struggles, family issues and social isolation which can significantly affect their mental well-being. Located in a rural area with limited access to mental health resources, Portola Butler faces unique challenges in addressing the mental and emotional needs of their students.The intervention included a presentation to a class of high school students at Portola Butler Continuation School. The focus was on the importance of increasing mental health awareness among teenagers and addressing common challenges with coping skills. With a resource card distributed to participants this project also aimed to provide mental health resources and support to students. The expected outcomes were to improve student knowledge on resources available to them and teach healthy coping skills. The post survey showed that few students are comfortable in reaching out for mental health services. This project successfully met the goal of increasing awareness on mental health. About nine students out of the eleven feel somewhat comfortable in reaching out for mental health services. Recommendations for the next steps include expanding mental health services to reach more students, increasing community awareness about the importance of mental health support, and securing additional funding to sustain and grow the program.These steps will help further address the high rates of anxiety and depression among youth in Greenfield.

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