The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting economic recession and social isolation has negatively affected many people’s mental health and exacerbated pre-existing mental illness disorders. The risk is more prominent for vulnerable populations, including children and young adults, women, essential workers, and communities of color. In order to cultivate a healthy, thriving community, we must bring greater awareness to the importance of mental health, destigmatize mental illness, and increase mental health literacy.
Due to COVID-19 and school closure, Maine students found themselves abruptly disconnected from their peers and the world. Students also found remote learning overwhelming.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that from April through October of last year, the proportion of children between the ages of 5 and 11 visiting an emergency department because of a mental health crisis climbed 24 percent compared to that same time period in 2019. Among 12- to 17-year-olds, the number increased by 31 percent.
A huge demand exists for mental health resources and a channel for dialogue-- over 350 educators and school staff attended Maine Department of Education’s Mental Health Forum held on April 1, 2021.
CHALLENGE QUESTION
A year of remote learning has taken a toll on students, families, educators, and staff. Maine wants to bring greater awareness to the importance of mental health and provide support to bolster the mental wellness of students and staff. How can technology be used to do so?
CHALLENGE QUESTION
A year of remote learning has taken a toll on students, families, educators, and staff. Maine wants to bring greater awareness to the importance of mental health and provide support to bolster the mental wellness of students and staff. How can technology be used to do so?
