Grossmont Union Works To Stop Bullying, Address Mental Health

LA MESA, CA — October is National Bullying Prevention Month. The campaign aims to bring attention to the bullying problem and involve people nationwide in a conversation on how to create a world safe from bullying.

In Grossmont Union High School District, preventing bullying is not just a priority in October, it is an ongoing commitment.

"Every day, we work to address bullying on our GUHSD campuses and offer a variety of activities and assemblies designed to enhance the overall school climate," district spokeswoman Catherine Martin said.

Activities and programs include Unity Days at school, Link Crew (seniors and freshmen partnership) programs, peer support, Restorative Circles, Mending Matters mental health therapists, and the district's Respectful Relations program. They are all designed to create a "culture of inclusion that values each individual and their unique differences," Martin said.

Also see: Unity Day: What It Is, How To Participate In La Mesa, Mount Helix

Last school year, several of the district's schools hosted Start with Hello Week, which is offered through the Sandy Hook Promise. It is designed to foster a culture of inclusion by promoting connectedness through activities and empowers students with the skills to identify those who are showing signs of social isolation.

"We also are working to address the growing concern of mental health and are committed to increasing awareness and understanding of the steps our youth can take to protect and enhance their overall wellness and provide support to a friend in need," Martin said.

This school year, the district is enhancing trainings and assemblies on related topics, including how to better recognize the warning signs of suicide and incorporate assemblies that work to create connectedness and community by minimizing social isolation, marginalization and rejection, according to Marin.

The district has also increased access to mental health providers on every campus.

"With a continued focus on prevention and early intervention, it is our hope that these actions will greatly reduce the number of children experiencing depression and anxiety," Martin said.

Related: Bullying Prevention Month In San Diego County

As part of a national reporting project, Patch has been looking at society's roles and responsibilities in bullying and a child's unthinkable decision to end their own life in hopes we might offer solutions that save lives.

Do you have a story to tell? Are you concerned about how your local schools handle bullies and their victims?

Email us at bullies@patch.com and share your views in the comments.