By the time students reach high school, the pressure intensifies. They’re balancing academics, extracurriculars, social lives, college planning and the influence of social media. Many struggle with anxiety, depression, even thoughts of self-harm.
Roswell High School leaders aren’t shying away from the problem. They're tackling it head-on, thanks to the Hornet Wellbeing Committee, supported by the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA).
Co-Chairs Nina Kosakoski and Allison Walker work closely with the school's Social Worker Valerie Rogers to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention through engaging activities and open conversations. This isn't just for students, but teachers and staff members as well.
Rogers has witnessed firsthand the impact of these efforts. “Having been the school social worker for more than 20 years, I can attest that over the last 5-6 years our mental health crisis cases have increased dramatically. In 2023, I was involved with 276 crisis intervention referrals from a small crisis to hospitalization.”
“In a world filled with social pressures and various stressors, it can be challenging to prioritize self-acceptance and acknowledge it's okay not to be okay,” explained Principal LaToya Miley. “We try to help students foster balanced development, improve social relationships, strengthen the mind-body connection, prepare for future challenges, and promote prevention and early intervention.”
Former committee co-chair Kim Friedman said the program has impacted her life too. “Developing these themes and activities for the students made me aware of so many tools we can use as adults to support our own well-being. I wanted to get past the slogans and hashtags and give students concrete examples of activities they could do on their own when they are feeling down or stressed out."
“I have certainly seen a significant shift in the acceptance of help and the willingness to talk openly about mental health,” added Rogers. “High schoolers are the best advocates and truly lifesavers of their friends.”
Hornet Wellbeing Committee activities:
- Post-it notes with positive affirmations were displayed for students to take
- Flowers were provided to students to brighten their day
- Students wrote down their stress, anger, or sadness, then shredded it
- Hug a Hornet
- Therapy Pet Visits
- Bulletin Board Messages and Take-Aways: calming mantras, positive affirmations, self-care checklists, social media detox
“Each one of the PTSA members is a parent themselves who has witnessed the impact of mental health challenges and concerns, either in our own homes or the homes of our friends or kids' friends,” noted Co-President Christine Huff. “We hope that by providing resources that are slightly different from other offerings at school, it will allow these kids to feel seen, less alone, and more understood.”
The program also receives ongoing support from city leaders, the Roswell Police Department and the Roswell Fire Department. "Everyone wants to see a change for the better and wants to help lessen the stigma around the need for mental health support," said Rogers.
“I can't picture school life without this special blend of self-care, comfort, and support,” stated Principal Miley. “It adds a human touch to the realm of education, making Roswell High School distinctive. It stands out for welcoming all students, embracing their imperfections and unique imbalances with open arms.”
The Hornet Wellbeing Committee is doing more than just raising awareness—it’s creating a culture of care.
roswellhighschoolptsa.com