Students Learn About Mental Health and Substance Use During Red Ribbon Week

St. Margaret’s Upper and Middle School students listened to speakers, attended seminars led by health professional and learned more about physical and mental health in a wide range of Red Ribbon Week activities across campus last week.

Red Ribbon Week is a nationwide initiative to raise awareness about the importance of a healthy, drug-free lifestyle. For the second year, St. Margaret’s expanded on Red Ribbon Week’s focus to add a mental health element to the week’s activities.

 

The week started with both Upper School and Middle School students hearing a presentation titled “Clearing the Air Behind Vaping” by representatives of the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence that educated the students on the most recent information on vaping including the rising rate of illness and death related to its use.

 

In addition, the Upper School heard a student homily about mental health challenges during Chapel, and the week concluded with an educational seminar on Friday in which students could choose one of five topics led by health professionals. There were discussions on managing stress, dealing with adversity, overcoming procrastination and accepting yourself.

 

In addition, the Upper School’s Tartan Inclusivity and Diversity Education group hosted a bake sale in the Upper School senior quad in support of LGBTQ+ anti-bullying. The money raised was donated to the Orange County LGBTQ+ Center, whose goal is to support LGBTQ+ youth in the area.