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May Counselor Connection

Posted Date: 05/05/26 (10:53 AM)


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At Rapoport, we believe that mental health is just as important as physical health.This month as we step into the month of May, we want to take a moment to recognize that May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting one another, and promoting well-being across our entire PreK–12 community. We want to embrace the opportunity to start important conversations, share resources, and reinforce the message that it’s okay to ask for help — and that no one is ever alone.
Mental Health Awareness Month
 

Why this month matters:

May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to reduce stigma, encourage open conversations, raise awareness and remind students they are not alone. A child’s emotional well-being is essential to their ability to learn, build relationships, and navigate life’s challenges.

What is Mental Health?

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. Mental health influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices — at every stage of life. Just like physical health, mental health can change over time and needs regular attention and care. Positive mental health allows children (and adults!) to cope with challenges, build strong relationships, and achieve their goals.
 

Everyday Ways to Support Your Child

Elementary School
  • Use simple language to talk about feelings
  • Practice naming emotions (“I feel frustrated”)
  • Build routines and provide reassurance
Middle School
  • Expect emotional ups and downs
  • Encourage healthy friendships
  • Help them problem-solve instead of fixing everything

High School
  • Talk openly about stress, future plans, and pressure
  • Encourage time management and realistic expectations
  • Normalize asking for help
How to talk about mental health
 

What Should Parents Watch For?

You know your child best. If something feels “off,” trust your instincts. Some signs a child may need extra support include:
  • Ongoing sadness, irritability, or withdrawal
  • Increased anxiety or excessive worry
  • Changes in sleep or eating habits
  • Loss of interest in favorite activities
  • Difficulty concentrating or drop in school performance
If you have any concerns about your child’s emotional well-being please know that we are here to support you and your family. If these signs persist, reaching out early can make a big difference.


 

Resources