Mental Health within walls of SUA
By: Sheridan Johnson ‘24 and Hannah Thebeau ‘25
Mental health struggles have been commonly seen among teenage girls in the last several years; and it’s impacting girls here at St. Ursula Academy. Girls are faced with challenges and can internalize how they are feeling instead of speaking up.
Academics, stress, relationships and sports are just a few things that can cause girls to have poor mental health. Students should know how many of the teachers and staff care about them.
All of the counselors at SUA: Mrs. Montry, Mrs. Whitton, Mrs. Abayateye, Mrs. Tobias and Ms. Hollister. Photo by Mrs. Hayes
Counselors are here to help
Here at SUA there are four counselors that are available for students if they need it. While talking to one of the counselors here, Mrs. Erin Whitton gave insight on how counselors see what students are going through and how the world has changed; so has mental health.
“Students are faced with more adversities; internal and external stressors,” said Whitton.
Students should feel comfortable talking about their struggles with trusted adults at school. The more it is talked about the more girls will feel open to talk about their struggles.
“I hope girls are never ashamed of their struggles and understand that mental health is not a choice,” said Whitton.
Mackenzie Williams in one of her tournament games last season competing against the Northview Wildcats. Photo by Jacob Peters
Challenges of being a Student Athlete
Sophomore Mackenzie Willams is a SUA student who participates in basketball at the school, as well as club soccer at the Greater Toledo Futbol Club.
Williams’s schedule is packed full of sports and school work and she often finds herself feeling stressed and overwhelmed with the pressure that comes in her life.
“Up until 10 p.m. my schedule is packed with sports practices and games, so I don't usually start my schoolwork until around 11 p.m.” Williams stated.
She also stated she participates in student council, so a lot of her days start with an early wake up call. She expressed that she often feels overwhelmed and stressed about everything in her life, but her counselors and teachers help her to stay positive and are always willing to help her with her work.
Williams expressed that while she often feels overwhelmed and stressed, the support of her friends, counselors and teachers have helped her gain the confidence and excitement to keep pushing through her day to day life.
During Presidents Day weekend, Williams will partake in a basketball game and travel to Texas for a soccer tournament. She states she's excited for the opportunities and to spend time doing what she loves.
“My biggest piece of advice would be to always seek help, even when you don't think you need it. Doing this will make a lifetime of a difference and truly alter your happiness,” said Williams.
