Regardless of the reasons why people may face challenges with their mental health, now more than ever, both educators and community leaders are stepping up to recognize the importance of acknowledging the priority of mental wellness and helping people progress toward a healthy state of well-being. 

That’s why last Friday, Cicero District 99 once again partnered with Chicagoland-based Sustainable Mental Wellness, Inc., to host the 10th Mental Health Roundtable, focusing on the overall mental health of students, educators, families and communities, and what it means to truly support “the whole person.”

Held at Unity Junior High School, "Rooted & Rising: The Power of 10 — Reflecting. Reconnecting. Recommitting." featured discussions on topics surrounding mental health and the various types of trauma one can face, whether in the home, at school, in one’s community and more. Through discussing and understanding restorative practices from a trauma and grief-informed lens, over 120 attendees walked away with a clearer picture of how to implement best practices through guide points provided by area educational and mental health professionals. 

“Prioritizing mental wellness is a key foundation for raising a generation of resilient, empathetic and successful individuals,” said Dr. Jack Rein, District 99’s director of Multi-Tier Systems of Support. “Mental health wellness not only shapes a student’s academic journey — it shapes their entire life. Because many mental health issues manifest during childhood, promoting awareness of the issue in schools helps educators and students recognize the signs of challenges early on, allowing for timely intervention and support.”

In addition to roundtable discussions, the program featured small group discussions and networking opportunities.