Nebraska Public Media Hosts ‘WELL BEINGS: Mental Health in the Classroom’

Well Beings: Mental Health in the Classroom

CROSSPOSTING OFFER: This virtual event is available for crossposting on media outlet Facebook accounts that are open to the public. If interested, email Eric Martin with a link to your organization’s Facebook page and the contact name, email and phone number of one of the page administrators. We will take requests through Wednesday, June 16.

For Immediate Release

Nebraska Public Media Hosts ‘WELL BEINGS: Mental Health in the Classroom’

LINCOLN, Neb. (June 7, 2021) – Undiagnosed, untreated or inadequately treated mental illnesses can significantly interfere with a student’s ability to learn, grow and develop, according to the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. Many students need support as they navigate mental health issues, and it is often mental health professionals at school and educators who guide at-risk students to the resources they need.

Nebraska Public Media is hosting its fourth WELL BEINGS livestream event and community discussion, Mental Health in the Classroom, at 4:30 p.m. CT, Thursday, June 17, at NebraskaPublicMedia.org/wellbeings. This is a free online event and registration is not required.

Mental Health in the Classroom includes a panel of experts who are on the frontlines of providing care and understanding for youth who struggle with mental health issues.

The online event will feature personal stories from young adults, as well as practical skills and information that students, parents, teachers and others who care for young people can use to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts in school-age children.

Panelists include:

Sheri Dawson, R.N., Director, Division of Behavioral Health, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Lincoln, Neb.

Since 2001, Dawson has held several different roles within the department, including Deputy Director of Community-Based Services, QI and Managed Care Administrator, Program Specialist and Nurse Surveyor/Consultant.

Jamie Mapp, Ed.S., NCSP, school psychologist with ESU 5, serving Southeast Nebraska

Mapp is a school psychologist who works as a mental health clinician. She partners with the mental health team, school districts, administrators, teachers and staff, students, families and community members to provide a range of services that promote mental wellness among all students.

Dana Tewahade, Licensed Mental Health Practitioner, Chadron Public Schools, Chadron, Neb.

As a school-based mental health practitioner, Tewahade provides mental health therapy. She has also taught anger management, communication and conflict-resolution skills in classrooms.

Participants can submit questions about mental health in the classroom prior to the event or access information about Nebraska mental health resources at NebraskaPublicMedia.org/wellbeings.

WELL BEINGS is an informational program to help parents, teachers, counselors, caregivers, families and students understand ways communities can support each other and encourage compassion during times of anxiety and depression.

Nebraskans are encouraged to join the conversation about mental health by using #WellBeings or tagging us @NebraskaPublicMedia on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube or @NebPublicMedia on Twitter

WELL BEINGS events in Nebraska and across the country are leading up to a new Ken Burns’ documentary “Hiding in Plain Sight: Our Mental Health Crisis” scheduled for broadcast on PBS stations in Spring 2022.

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CONTACT: Kim Rogers, 402-660-5521

About Nebraska Public Media

Nebraska Public Media has been dedicated to connecting Nebraskans through news, sports, education and entertainment for nearly 70 years. Providing global news and compelling stories from PBS and NPR, Nebraska Public Media also produces award-winning original content. Its programs and services reach 1 million people each month across the state on television, radio, online and mobile platforms. Visit NebraskaPublicMedia.org for more information.

WELL BEINGS addresses the critical health needs of Americans through broadcast content, original digital content, and impactful local events. The multi-year campaign, created by WETA Washington, D.C., brings together partners from across the country, including patients, families, caregivers, teachers, medical and mental health professionals, social service agencies, private foundations, filmmakers, corporations and media sponsors, to create awareness and resources for better health for all. To learn more, visit WellBeings.org or follow @WellBeingsOrg on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter, and join the conversation with #WellBeings.