Wellness Fair focuses on mental health and nutrition
North Springs High School will host the Spartan Wellness Community Engagement Fair on Thursday, Oct. 10 from 4 to 6 p.m., the school year’s first family and community event.
The event follows the school’s commitment to the Community School Model, emphasizing the development of the whole child, ensuring students’ mental, physical, and social well-being, alongside academic success, according to a news release.
A needs assessment showed that mental health is North Springs High students’ most significant challenge. The Wellness Fair coincides with Mental Wellness Day. Professional counselors will provide resources, guidance, and educational materials to support emotional resilience and mental wellness. These resources should help students and community members learn strategies to handle stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
In partnership with The Atlanta Community Food Bank, the wellness fair will distribute nutritious food items to raise awareness about the importance of a balanced diet to address nutritional wellness. The news release said healthy eating habits improve cognitive function, academic performance, and energy levels.
The wellness fair adds a focus on fire safety in collaboration with the Sandy Springs Fire Department. October is Fire Safety Month, and firefighters will present fire safety demonstrations to provide tips on protecting homes and families just as home heating systems begin to turn on.
For information or to volunteer, email Diahann Fulwider.
Maia P. Smith, a school social worker, said North Springs will do more than a one-day fair. The school will open a Wellbeing Center. The dedicated space will provide wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, peer-to-peer education, and self-care tips, offering students tools to manage their mental health and thrive academically and personally.
The decision came after surveys showed many students feel overwhelmed by academic pressures, family issues, and the demands of school. A significant number said they considered suicide over stress related to peer relationships and school. Almost half the students experience depression, sadness, or withdrawal. Seventy-five percent believe in-school counseling would be beneficial.
On-site mental health screenings will be offered for students who pre-register before Oct. 10, World Mental Health Day. North Springs High is at 7447 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs.
link