By Grace Nelson and McCarty Liang, Key Club International trustees
As we dive into busy seasons, finding a way to balance homework, activities and life can be extremely stressful. Stress management can help you address difficult situations with a clear and calm mentality.
Erika’s Lighthouse, a partner of Key Club International, brings attention to mental health struggles through its Awareness into Action (AAA) activities. From promoting positivity and encouraging help-seeking to educating the community, AAA has something for everyone! Check out some projects below:
- Coloring and cocoa. Grab paper cups, art supplies and a lot of hot chocolate! In this activity, students are invited to de-stress by designing a fun cup sleeve for their drink. On their sleeve, they can draw fun pictures, write positive messages or list mental health facts. Coloring offers a fun way to calm the brain — with a side of hot chocolate!
- Beacon of Hope door signs. Print and style door signs to help students find trusted adults to talk to. Use the printout included on the Erika’s Lighthouse website or design one of your own. These signs bridge the gap in student-teacher discussions about mental health and build a positive school environment.
- Gratitude jar. Each day, write on a small piece of paper one thing you are grateful for. Fold them up and place them in a jar to remind you of the positive parts of your life and all there is to be thankful for. For some extra fun, add ribbons, stickers and paint to your jar!
- Locker notes. On Post-it notes, write encouraging words, inspirational quotes or even pretty drawings to promote positivity. Then put the notes on lockers throughout the school and add a pleasant surprise to the school day!
Other Erika’s Lighthouse resources
- Teen Toolbox. Learn about mental health and how to take care of yourself and others.
- Affiliate club. Register your Key Club as an affiliate club to receive monthly newsletters about new opportunities, access free materials and more.
- Mental Health Recharge. Engaging five-minute breaks help you and your club or classroom boost mental health.
Taking care of your mental health allows you to persevere through challenging times. Register and create an account on the Erika’s Lighthouse website to access free resources today!