Mental Health Awareness Week Set for Oct. 30–Nov. 4

MCPS and the Montgomery County School Psychologists’ Association (MCSPA) will host free events the week of Oct. 30–Nov. 4 to give youth and families the opportunity to hear from mental health experts on a variety of issues. The week of events, which will be held in-person and virtually, will include speakers and workshops.

From 6–8 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 1 at Richard Montgomery High School, former professional football player turned mental health expert and advocate, Dr. Jay Barnett, will speak in-person to students about the importance of mental health, breaking down stigma and seeking help. This event will also be livestreamed on the MCPS-TV and on MCPS en Español YouTube channels. If you plan to attend in-person, please RSVP.

The week will end with a virtual resource fair and expert panel from 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 4. This event will offer information on MCPS mental health resources, providers and community partners to students and their families.

The week will also include pre-recorded videos on topics, such as healthy habits, supporting positive school climate through equity and diversity, and supporting problem solving through appropriate use of social-emotional vocabulary. There will be interviews with experts on neurodiversity, exercise and wellness, yoga and pain management and substance use prevention, among others.