Prioritizing Mental Health as the School Year Begins
By Genesis Mora September 24, 2025
The beginning of the year can be difficult, from finding your new classes, getting accustomed to going to school again, managing sleep, and the scorching heat! Consequently, it is important to not only address students' physical health, but also their mental health.
September, one of the early months of the school year, is a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting those who are struggling, and reminding everyone that mental health deserves attention and care.
Here, in South Gate High, the Psychiatric Social Workers (PSW’s), school climate advocates, and counselors provide lots of support for the students, whether it's individually or by holding different events or activities at lunch.
Image of the Well-Being Center located in B-28.
Photo courtesy of Genesis Mora.
For example, all the students who take the Health class under Ms. Valdez and Mrs. Joseph, are formally introduced to the PSW’s and are taken to the Wellness Center to learn about the services they provide. The PSW’s state “We are here to support you with whatever challenges you may face–whether it’s stress, school or personal struggles. Our job is to make sure you feel safe and supported so you can succeed in and out of the classroom.”
In addition, the school climate advocates work to strengthen community on campus by creating safe spaces, promoting respect, and ensuring students know they are never alone in facing their challenges.
You can also find support through teachers and students. In particular, you can become involved in one of the school's sports teams, which helps maintain good mental and physical health.
Student Athlete, Damian Guzman, says “It initiates teamwork, builds new connections, clears my mind and enhances cognitive performance. Sports also helps me practice breathing exercises.”
Furthermore, Ms. Higgins, a science teacher adds “breathing exercises are essential because they activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and concentration, based on scientific evidence.”
When you build strong relationships with peers, it creates a sense of belonging, providing emotional support including validation, as well as reducing stress. Team sports also assist in strengthening key skills like communication, active listening, problem solving, collaboration, empathy and patience.
Dr. Sotelo, an English teacher at SGHS, suggests hiking as a “form of relieving stress and a chance to embrace the natural world around you.” He also says drinking yerba mate, a herbal tea native to Argentina and Uruguay, which provides natural energy and nutrients, “could be an effective way to reduce stress and enhance work habits.” Additionally, Ms. Higgins mentions that getting morning sunlight, taking cold showers, and prioritizing sufficient sleep can further improve one’s mental health. These simple ways remind us that mental health can be supported not only through school resources, but also by the daily choices we make to care for our bodies and minds.
As September ends, remember to take each day one step at a time, and know that caring for your mental health is just as important as caring for your grades or your future. Whether through school resources, supportive teachers, friendships, or small daily habits, there are many ways to strengthen your well-being.
Most importantly, help is always within reach. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, for immediate support.
“Always have a plan, but enjoy the detours.”