MACHESNEY PARK, Ill — It’s ok, to not be ok.
That is the message Harlem School District administrators have for their students, who were asked to put their books away during the second half of the school day.
“We have had suicides in the school from like current students and alumni,” said Harlem High School senior Penelope De La Torre. “So I think it’s a way for the school to address those issues.”
More than 40 mental health professionals took over the last three periods of the school day, filling the classrooms with topics like stress management, empowerment, and suicide prevention.
Students say it’s not always easy to start a conversation with friends and family regarding their mental health. Administrators hope that by setting aside time at school they are able to continue the conversation at home, and seek help if and when they need it.
Associate Principal Jeremy Bois says they wanted to focus on positive relationships, mindfulness, and mental health.
