Smithtown HS West Student Spreads Mental Health Awareness

SMITHTOWN, NY — Even though the DECA national conference was canceled, the message presented by Smithtown High School West student Juliana Buonaiuto is still extremely important, said Smithtown Central School District officials. Buonaiuto recently completed her DECA manual focusing on mental health awareness.

To promote the Breaking Silence campaign and its message of mental health awareness, Buonaiuto started a school-wide mental health awareness day in January. Students were asked to dress in green to show their support and wear their "break the silence" awareness wristbands.

Students also signed health unity pledges at the table in front of the new mural. The mural was painted by Buonaiuto and is meant to have a lasting impact on the students of Smithtown High School West.

"Her inspirational message reminds students on a daily basis to 'keep their head up and their heart strong,'" the district stated in a news release.

The Breaking Silence community service project also provided resources for community members through the Smithtown High School West weekly newsletter, providing a weekly mental health and wellness tip. The newsletter was sent to all parents and students via email, and the tips offer suggestions about caring for mental health.