Mental Health Month will be observed across the country this May, but Garland ISD’s Guidance & Counseling Department is already working to raise awareness among students and families. The district aims to provide support and education, as well as diminish the stigma of mental illness, through guidance lessons, individual and group counseling, special events, community resources and crisis intervention. Common signs and symptoms of mental health conditions include:
- Dramatic sleep and appetite changes or decline in personal care
- Rapid or extreme shifts in emotions or depressed feelings
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Detachment from reality
- Inability to cope with daily problems
- Excessive fears or worries
- Excessive anger, hostility or violence
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Suicidal thinking
According to the American Psychiatric Association, if several of these signs and symptoms exist, it may be useful to follow up with a mental health professional. For a list of resources and Guidance & Counseling contact information, visit the Counseling page. You can also report concerns anonymously through the district’s Anonymous Alerts app, which can be downloaded in the Apple App Store or Google Play. Just enter the activation code garlandisd when you open the app.
Information provided by Garland ISD.