Geneva Students Tackle Mental Health Stigmas

GENEVA, IL—Geneva High School students are on a mission to prove that taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.

As Mental Health Awareness month begins, students are working in collaboration with the Geneva 708 Mental Health Board to participate in education and advocacy messaging about mental health.

Some of their efforts include tying green ribbons on the grounds of the high school, middle schools and Geneva City Hall. Additionally, students will post positive, uplifting messages in the school hallways and air a mental health tip or strategy each day in May on the morning announcements.

“Mental health is essential to everyone’s overall health and well-being. While one in five people will experience a mental illness during their lifetime, everyone faces challenges in life that can impact their mental health,” the city said on its website, applauding the students’ efforts. “The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound impacts on the mental health of people of all ages, and now more than ever it is critical to reducing the stigma.”

May 13 has been designated "Lime Green Day" in the district where students will be encouraged to wear green, and all sports teams with a home game that day will be encouraged to wear lime green in their warm up attire.

Geneva's Mental Health Board said it is proud of the student's efforts in encouraging everyone to prioritize their total well-being.

The Board also invites the community to check out the resource flyers provided by Mental Health America.