We recently sat down with Nicole Thomas, Catholic Charities Director of Mental Health and Violence Prevention Services, about workshops held at Salesian College Preparatory to increase mental health awareness among our young people.
Catholic Charities staff provided a half day, interactive workshop for one hundred 10th graders, which focused on healthy relationship skills, preventing bullying, and community building activities. The event increased recognition among students, staff, and administrators of the importance of healthy connections, especially among people who differ from one another.
This work helps create a healthy climate within schools, or any place where people form a community. Raising awareness about managing differences in a healthy way is a fundamental life skill. Our work in this arena is based on restorative practices and healing. Other schools have also asked for workshops and training, which we customize to address specific needs.