Andrew HS Got Help cards assist students in seeking assistance

December can be a stressful month for students as they head into final exams, and as holidays and the winter break approach. So, during the first week of December, Andrew High School Counselors and Social Workers visit P.E. and Health classes to talk to students about the resources available to them should they be feeling overwhelmed or stressed. During these visits, students receive “Got Help” cards.

These cards, intended to go into students’ wallets or purses, are a visual tool to remind students how and where they can get help if they are in crisis or struggling. Cards include contact information for school personnel, as well as outside hotlines should a student be in need of help outside of school hours. Students can give their card to any staff member in the building, and
with no explanation, can see a Counselor or Social Worker immediately.

Students are reminded that if another student gives them a card, they are asking for help. The student receiving the card will be instructed to stay with the student and send for help. Under the most extreme circumstances, this program can be used as a suicide prevention program. Counselors and Social Workers will remind students that they are not expected or advised to be professional Counselors. However, they may have a unique opportunity to get help for a student who is in crisis. We encourage parents to use the distribution of these cards as an opportunity to ask their student about their stress level and to seek help if needed.