Be Mindful: Summer mental health support in El Paso

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Many students are now out for the summer, and that means time away from school mental health support networks.

Coaches, clubs and friends -- all of them help make up an important mental health support system. For younger people, the summer months can mean isolation, boredom -- and stress. The National Alliance on Mental Illness says that 1 in 6 people under age 17 experience a mental health disorder each year. The CDC found last year, nearly half of students had long lasting feelings sadness or hopelessness -- and many felt they had poor mental health.

While summertime usually means free days and friends -- it can also mean isolation and loneliness. One of the best ways to fight mental illness in students, according to experts, is strong connection with other people -- and access to school support for mental health.

The Texas Education Agency found that in 2020, roughly half of students with a mental health condition were at risk of dropping out of school. More than 70% of them received support from their school.

Researchers say connection with others can improve mental wellness -- no matter the age. And students come in all ages and demographics. From middle school to secondary education, many schools are offering some form of support -- including El Paso Community College, which is offering diverse support to students.

Several districts and youth organizations in the area also offer round-the-clock support for young people.

The Ysleta Independent School District and the Canutillo ISD both offer continuing support during and after the school year. And Emergence Health has partnerships with several districts in the area, including the El Paso Independent School District, offering programs to select students. In 2022, the organization provided behavioral health services to more than 1,500 people under age 17.

Avery Martinez is the Be Mindful Reporter for ABC-7, supported in part by Report for America. RFA helps provide reporters for under-covered topics across the country.