In May, for Mental Health Awareness Month, the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) will lead activities to promote mental wellness, spark important conversations, and connect students, staff, and families with mental health resources. This year’s national theme, “More Good Days, Together,” launched by Mental Health America (MHA), highlights connection, support, and the importance of breaking mental health stigma. The campaign reminds us that “good days” are different for everyone, whether overcoming challenges, finding peace, or simply feeling supported and not alone.
While Mental Health Awareness Month shines a spotlight on these important efforts in May, OCSD remains committed to supporting students' and staff's mental health and well-being year-round. Through the dedicated work of school counselors, mental health professionals, educators, administrators, district support staff, and Care Crews - student-led groups that promote kindness, inclusion, peer support, and positive connections on school campuses, students are provided with safe, supportive learning environments where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
“Our commitment to mental health extends far beyond one month,” said Superintendent Marcus Chambers. “Every day, our schools work to create and continually strengthen environments where students and staff feel safe, valued, connected, and supported. We are not only sustaining this work, we are also building upon it, expanding our efforts, and deepening our impact year after year. I am incredibly grateful for our school counselors, mental health professionals, teachers, administrators, Care Crew student leaders, and district team members who ensure students have the resources and encouragement they need to succeed. By working together, we build stronger school communities where every student can experience more good days.”
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, schools across the district will participate in activities and initiatives that promote kindness, resilience, self-care, and emotional wellness. The district also continues to emphasize bullying prevention efforts throughout the year by encouraging respectful relationships, fostering positive school cultures, and empowering students to speak up, support one another, and seek help when needed. Creating inclusive and compassionate school environments remains a top priority for OCSD.
Mental health is essential to well-being. One in five people faces a mental health condition each year. OCSD works to reduce stigma by raising awareness, supporting educators, offering resources, and encouraging open conversations within our community. OCSD provides a comprehensive Mental Health and Wellness resource page for students, parents, and staff that includes helpful tools, community resources, and guidance on seeking professional support when needed.
For more information, please visit: https://www.okaloosaschools.com/o/ocsd/page/mental-health-and-wellness.