Happy May is Mental Health Month & Foster Youth Awareness Month

May is both Mental Health Month and Foster Youth Awareness Month—an important opportunity for schools to strengthen support for students whose well-being is closely connected to stability, belonging, and trusted relationships.

During a busy season of testing, transitions, and end-of-year changes, small, intentional actions can make a meaningful difference. Simple routines, visible supports, and moments of connection help students stay regulated, engaged, and ready to learn—especially for foster youth who may be navigating additional uncertainty.

When schools make space for conversations about mental health and increase awareness of foster youth experiences, they help create environments where students feel seen, supported, and connected.

These efforts reinforce a powerful message: supporting the whole child is essential to strong school communities.

May Is Mental Health Month Toolkits:

The Wellness in Schools Program Wellness Activity Guide

Erika's Lighthouse Positivity Pledge

Mental Health Legislation:

SB-224 and Mental Health Education

California Senate Bill 224 helps ensure that mental health education becomes a meaningful part of student learning in California schools. By requiring mental health instruction within health education curriculum, SB 224 promotes awareness, early intervention, and stigma reduction.

The goal is to help students better understand mental wellness, recognize signs of concern, and know when and how to seek support. Through age-appropriate and culturally responsive lessons, schools can create a stronger foundation for emotional well-being and foster healthier, more supportive learning communities.



What it requires:

• Integrates mental health into health curriculum
• Lessons on mental health conditions, signs, stigma reduction, coping strategies, and help-seeking
• Must be culturally relevant and age-appropriate instruction

Why it Matters:

• Empowers students with the knowledge and tools to recognize and respond to mental health concerns - either for themselves or their peers. This law ensures students are equipped with the language and skills to support their own mental wellness

More Information:

SB 224: Pupil Instruction: Mental Health Education

California Health Education - Mental Health Education Resources

Upcoming Events from the Wellness in Schools Program

Have a community resource to highlight? Ideas, suggestions, or feedback for the WISP newsletter? We welcome your input! Email us anytime with your questions, comments, or resources to share!