I know fall is coming when the farm stand that I visit each week adds a display of scarecrows next to the expanding selection of apples replacing the peaches in the produce aisle.

The agendas of our days have also changed as classes replace lazy days on the beach. Homework and
after-school sports practices now fill the once relaxed dinner hour. So here we are- back to school.

In addition to making it a priority to carve out time in a demanding schedule to relax and unwind, students need to be honest with themselves when more is needed to address challenges they are confronting. If a class feels overwhelming because the course material is difficult to understand and grades begin to suffer, students should ask for help immediately, as opposed to allowing the situation to further worsen. Speak with a teacher, explore tutoring options if needed, but don't wait. Don't do nothing and hope that the problem will go away on its own.

This approach is also the one that we must take when students are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Asking for help is a proactive sign of strength, not at all a sign of weakness. Mental health deserves the same attention as our physical health. If mental health matters are not addressed and treated, they will not disappear on their own, and they cannot be wished away. They will just remain and continue to compromise the quality of a student's life.

Take control and own your life. Students should be encouraged to take any steps needed to ensure not only a successful school year but also a happy and healthy life.

We encourage families to get in touch as we're happy to work together and create a plan to make sure that students' goals for this year become a reality.