Lawrence UFSD Celebrates First Annual Mental Wellness Week

Lawrence, N.Y. —Recently, the Lawrence Union Free School District Mental Wellness Committee hosted its first annual Mental Wellness Spirit Week. Students and staff worked together to learn about the importance of mental and physical health for academic success and celebrated the various ways we can make a positive impact on our brain and body.

The objective of the week was to remind one another that the stigma of mental health challenges needs to be eradicated, and self-care and caring relationships have been proven to turn around the negative effects of stress. Each day brought events, books, speakers and a shirt to wear to bring the school district together in a positive way.

The week kicked off with “Music Monday,” during which students learned about the many connecting threads between music and wellness. Early childhood students participated in a pre-recorded mindfulness breathing session. Tuesday was labeled “Take Care of Myself Tuesday,” and students districtwide wore tie-dye to represent all of the emotions we experience as humans. On “Wellness Wednesday,” middle school and high school students attended a workshop on nutrition presented by nutritionist Izabella Levi. On Thursday, students wore green, the color of mental health awareness for “Thoughtful Thursday.” For “Fitness Friday,” all students and staff sported matching Lawrence Strong t-shirts.

The Lawrence Union Free School District believes that mental health is a critical part of academic success, student health and overall well-being. The district plans to make Mental Wellness Week as a yearly celebration and reminder to the school community that they are strong during adversity, and that there is no shame in struggling with mental health.

For more information about the Lawrence Union Free School District and latest District news please visit www.lawrence.org.