Okaloosa County schools launch mental health campaign with workshops, wellness walls, and more
Okaloosa County, Florida – To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month this May, Okaloosa County School District is launching a number of projects meant to promote emotional well-being and start important discussions in all of its schools. The district will conduct workshops, peer-led support circles, and creative activities meant to assist students, staff, and families develop resilience and interact with essential resources under the slogan “Turn Awareness into Action.”
Every school will have a “Wellness Wall” early in the month where people may put uplifting messages, offer coping tips, or just celebrate moments of gratitude. Over the weeks that follow, guidance counselors and mental health specialists will visit classrooms to offer age-appropriate conversations on stress management, self-care practices, and detecting indications of distress in oneself and others. Parent-teacher groups have also been asked to plan family-friendly activities—like community walks and mindfulness art evenings—to support the idea that mental health is a shared responsibility.
“We are committed to the mental health of every student and staff member in our district,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Our Mental Health Team plays a vital role in ensuring that our school communities have the support they need to thrive. Mental health is not just the absence of illness—it’s about resilience and well-being. As we move through Mental Health Month, I encourage everyone to reflect on their mental health, engage in open conversations, and take steps toward better mental wellness.”
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Statistics indicate that one in five people may have a mental health issue at some time, so highlighting why OCSD considers these initiatives more than symbolic acts. The district wants to break the stigma that too frequently stops people from looking for help by bringing discussions about anxiety, depression, and stress into the open. Apart from classroom talks, OCSD has scheduled drop-in counselling times at several campus sites so staff and students may talk privately with qualified professionals without having to schedule an appointment.
The district’s all-encompassing mental health resource portal stays online to assist these efforts. A carefully selected list of local hotlines, evidence-based self-help courses, and recommendations for spotting early warning signals of emotional suffering may be found by parents, teachers, and students. Reflecting the many needs of Okaloosa County families, technical support personnel have made sure these resources are readily accessible and translated into several languages.
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The district urges everyone—young and old, in all roles—to take deliberate actions toward well-being as Mental Health Awareness Month moves on. Every action adds to a culture of care and resilience, whether it is five minutes for deep breathing, contacting a friend, or just checking the resource page for direction. To get complete information about digital resources, drop-in hours, and future activities, visit the OCSD Mental Health and Wellness page at this link.
