The application for teen mental health training opened Feb. 6, providing an opportunity for U-High students to become more informed about mental health and illnesses and to help others with mental health. 

Once trained, students should be able to define and identify mental health and illnesses, understand common signs and symptoms, destigmatize mental health and learn how to support friends facing these challenges.

 Aria Choi, U-High counselor, believes that the more people learn about how our thoughts, feelings, decisions and actions impact learning, relationships and overall health, the healthier the community will be. 

Ms. Choi hopes this program will help move U-High onto a healthier path. 

The deadline to apply is Feb. 16 at 8 a.m. Students can contact their counselor or Dean of Students Ana Campos to learn how to apply. Training will take place March 22 or 24 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Ms. Choi encourages anyone, regardless of background knowledge, to apply. 

“Do not feel pressure to feel like you need to know anything about adolescent mental health,” Ms. Choi said. “If you are genuinely open to learning more about mental health topics, about supporting your peers, that’s enough to express your interest in the program.”