In an unwavering commitment to the well-being of students across the Greater Houston area, Communities In Schools of Houston (CIS) proudly joins hands with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to commemorate Mental Health Awareness Month in May. With a theme resonating "Take the Moment," CIS embarks on a mission to raise consciousness and foster resilience within the community.

For over four decades, CIS has been a stalwart advocate for student mental health, exemplifying its dedication through initiatives like the Mental Health Initiative (MHI), now celebrating 13 years of service. Positioned as the largest provider of mental health services in Harris County schools, CIS has tirelessly championed the cause of mental wellness, ensuring that no student navigates their journey alone.

Spanning across 163 school campuses in six districts, CIS embeds a full-time Student Support Specialist on each partner campus, delivering essential services and connecting students with vital resources. In the 2022-2023 academic year alone, CIS mental health professionals provided support to 7,569 students, with an additional 642 students served by mental health partners, amounting to a staggering 25,740 hours of dedicated care.

Shubhra Endley, LCSW-S, Director of Mental Health & Wellness at CIS of Houston, underscores the pressing need for proactive intervention amidst rising mental health challenges among students. Drawing attention to factors like adverse childhood experiences and social determinants of health, Endley emphasizes CIS's proactive approach, ensuring all staff members are equipped with trauma-informed practices and suicide prevention strategies.

 Tanya_Lone Star College_Conroe/Photo credit: Courtesy of Communities In Schools of Houston.
 

Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a poignant reminder of the prevalence and impact of mental illness. NAMI's statistics reveal alarming trends, with 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiencing mental illness annually and suicide ranking as the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-14. In Harris County alone, nearly 310,000 children and youth grapple with mental health disorders, highlighting the urgent need for accessible support systems.

Endley stresses the pivotal role of schools in identifying and addressing mental health concerns, with nearly 70% of students accessing interventions within the school environment. CIS has bolstered its efforts by expanding its roster of licensed mental health professionals and forging partnerships with esteemed agencies like Bo's Place and The Council on Recovery, ensuring comprehensive support for students and families.

 Photo credit: Courtesy of Communities In Schools of Houston.
 

Under the umbrella of the MHI, CIS delivers a multifaceted approach to mental health support, encompassing counseling, support groups, and referrals through campus-based professionals, the CIS Mobile Mental Health Team, and esteemed partners. With a focus on evidence-based interventions, CIS equips students with coping mechanisms to navigate challenges ranging from anxiety to grief, fostering a culture of resilience and empowerment.

As CIS embarks on this noble endeavor, it calls upon the community to rally behind its cause. Throughout May, all donations made to CIS will directly support the Mental Health Initiative, ensuring that critical services reach those in need. By standing together, we affirm our commitment to nurturing minds and shaping futures, paving the way for a brighter, more resilient generation.

For more information on Communities In Schools of Houston's Mental Health Initiative and how to support this vital cause, visit (https://www.cishouston.org/mental-health-initiative). Together, let us be the beacon of hope that guides every student towards a path of wellness and fulfillment. 

For more information about Communities In Schools of Houston, please visit www.cishouston.org.