The Hawaii State Department of Education (DOE) has launched an innovative mental health resource aimed at providing support to students, families, and staff. This new initiative, in collaboration with the Cook Center for Human Connection, offers free access to ParentGuidance, a comprehensive online platform designed to address the rising mental health needs within the community.
What is ParentGuidance?
ParentGuidance is an online resource available 24/7, offering a range of services to support families dealing with mental health concerns. Key features of the platform include:
One-on-One Parent Coaching: Personalized coaching sessions with licensed therapists to help parents navigate their child’s mental health challenges.
Virtual Seminars: Educational webinars led by licensed professionals covering various topics related to mental health and emotional well-being.
“Ask a Therapist” Forum: An interactive space where parents can submit questions and receive advice from mental health experts.
Addressing the Growing Need for Support
The introduction of ParentGuidance comes at a critical time, as mental health issues among youth continue to rise. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there is a significant increase in cases of depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, and suicidality among children and adolescents. These issues not only affect the individuals but also have broader impacts on families and communities.
Annie Kalama, Assistant Superintendent of the DOE Office of Student Support Services, emphasized the importance of this new resource in a recent news release. She stated, “As part of our ongoing commitment to the well-being of our students, we are excited to introduce this new resource designed specifically to support families in addressing student mental health. Parents play a crucial role in their child’s overall mental health and this resource will help to provide them with the tools, information, and support they need to foster positive mental and emotional growth for their child.”
The Impact of the Cook Center for Human Connection
The Cook Center for Human Connection has a track record of successful collaborations with over 360 school districts nationwide, positively impacting more than 3.3 million families across 46 states. Their partnership with the Hawaii DOE aims to extend this impact to local communities, providing valuable resources and support to those in need.
By offering these comprehensive tools and support systems, the Hawaii State DOE and the Cook Center for Human Connection are taking a significant step towards enhancing mental health resources and support for families, ultimately fostering a healthier, more resilient community.
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