STEVENSVILLE — In September, Kent Island High School is actively promoting mental health awareness and suicide prevention, emphasizing that students do not have to face challenges alone. This month-long initiative focuses on wellness, positive messaging, and connecting students with available resources. A key phrase being shared across the school is "You Are Not Alone," showcased through announcements, the Buc Report, banners, and displays around the building.

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Students can engage in the campaign by collecting awareness materials like ribbons, bracelets, key chains, stickers, pencils, and rubber ducks. These items aim to spread the message and encourage discussions about mental health and wellness.

Multiple resources are at students' disposal for information or support. Guidance counselors are available to provide assistance and facilitate access to further resources. Informational cards and flyers are located throughout the school. The Students for Wellness Club promotes positive messaging and wellness, creating opportunities for students to participate in various school events.

The initiative is aligned with broader mental health and suicide prevention efforts across Queen Anne's County. The county collaborates with local organizations, including Queen Anne's County Public Schools, the Health Department, and the Sheriff's Office, to enhance preventive measures and connect residents with necessary resources.

Queen Anne's County Government emphasizes that its Character Counts! program works with schools to offer age-appropriate lessons and messaging. Additionally, funding for mental health positions within schools was included in the county's latest budget cycle.

Communication and collaboration are integral to the county’s prevention strategies, allowing residents to more easily access information and services. The county utilizes its website, social media platforms, and QACTV to disseminate information from various community partners.

Brice Strang, Queen Anne's County Health Officer, noted that while individual county suicide data may be limited, drawing conclusions from small numbers can be misleading. Accurate suicide fatality data may take up to two years to be publicly released, and Maryland's Vital Statistics Administration withholds county rates with fewer than 20 cases to protect individual privacy.

Support is available for students who are struggling or concerned about friends. They are encouraged to talk to a guidance counselor, trusted teacher, family member, or another adult. Additionally, students can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Heather Tranquill, senior class counselor, indicated that awareness and positive messaging surrounding wellness should extend beyond September. She expressed hope that students will recognize the importance of mental well-being as an ongoing part of school life. The campaign aims to make wellness visible and participatory throughout the entire school year.

The Mid-Shore Out of the Darkness Walk is set to take place in Easton on October 11, providing the community another chance to support mental health awareness and prevention efforts. Through the provision of resources, information, and opportunities for involvement, Kent Island High School aims to foster a community understanding that supporting mental health is a shared responsibility.