How Student Led Mental Health Initiatives Build a Healthy Campus
What happens when students take ownership of mental health on campus? Check out these student led mental health initiatives at St. Agnes that support the entire person.
Written by Tess Pacetti ‘26
St. Agnes Academy’s mission statement focuses on “celebrating life in a joyful, optimistic, and productive manner.” With a strong emphasis on student mental health, the administration and student organizations at St. Agnes strive to create a safe and healthy environment.
The school understands the importance of providing students with opportunities to relax from the stress of schoolwork and take a moment to reflect. This reflection allows for personal growth and development within the student population and fosters a healthy community of academy women.
From student-organized mental health club organizations to care dogs on campus, the student body is constantly encouraging mental health support. Learn more about how these student led mental health initiatives – including workshops and snack breaks – uplift and assist students in their journey through high school and into college.
Discover Our Mental Health-Based Club Organizations
St. Agnes boasts a wide selection of student-led mental health clubs. These clubs, which are established, run, and supported by students in the community, are a great opportunity for students to learn more about mental health.
The education and knowledge shared by these clubs foster peer support and community. These strong sisterhood bonds between students encourage growth as a class.
Examples of Mental Health-Related Clubs
- Psychology Club
- Music as Medicine Club
- Mental Health Awareness Club
- Get Fit Club
These clubs and other clubs, like Book Club and Craft Club, create outlets for creative and personal expression with opportunities for relaxation and reflection. These outlets are proven to improve mental health and lower stress and anxiety levels.
Our clubs also include guest speakers and workshops, allowing for a more hands-on approach led by students themselves. The result is a more engaged student body.
We Support Care Dogs On Campus
A unique and appreciated mental health initiative at St. Agnes Academy is the care dogs that frequent the campus. These dogs allow students to take a much-needed break from studying and enjoy the company of furry friends.
Research shows that the presence of care dogs can have significant impacts on students' mental health. It lowers stress, anxiety, and blood pressure and leads to a reduced chance of depression.
Student Government, which is a student-run operation at St. Agnes dedicated to providing students with the best opportunities and experiences, requests these dogs during stressful midterm and final exam seasons to support students. The student government communicates with local organizations to provide the puppies for students and spreads awareness throughout the school.
The care dogs are a beloved and important mental health service at St. Agnes. They are an adorable opportunity for students to relax from the pressures of school work and reduce their stress and anxiety levels to improve their mental health.
The small moments of joy in the school day can lead to overall well-being and create a comfortable atmosphere on campus for the students.
Student Government Operated Mental Health Support Events
As you can see, the student government plays an active role in creating mental health support opportunities and providing access to mental health resources.
In addition to thinking about the role of our furry friends on campus, the student government oversees key events. Each event is designed to give students the ability to rewind and enjoy time away from the academic pressures of our curriculum while feeling supported in the community.
Examples of Student Government Led Initiatives
- Snack and Study Breaks: Student government provides study and snack breaks for students looking to recharge from the pressures of high school. This time allows students to reflect and focus on the challenges ahead.
- Wellness Workshops: Student government offers mental health workshops in collaboration with the counseling office to spread awareness of mental health issues and promote healthy practices.
- St. Agnes Traditions: Traditions and surprise snack days offer relaxation and the ability to unwind for students. Fun and beloved traditions, like Veritas Vacation Day, are events that students look forward to during their time at St. Agnes.
These initiatives ensure that students have access to mental health support throughout the school year.
The Impact of Student Led Mental Health Initiatives is Clear
The various opportunities and experiences that St. Agnes provides to students is designed to foster mental health support and create a community of openness. The skills taught and acquired by the students are essential in the immediate use of high school and create the right groundwork for managing higher education journeys after St. Agnes.
These student led mental health initiatives allow students to be engaged and active in mental health awareness and help decrease the stigma surrounding mental health in society. The transparency and advocacy that results from our student initiatives create a more comfortable and relaxed atmosphere on campus.
By preparing students for their lives beyond St. Agnes and teaching them about the importance of mental health, the students and administration create a lasting impact on current students and future peers in the community. Learn about our comprehensive student support services. Know that you are always supported!
