Charlotte Peery, who dropped out of high school at 14, is now making a difference in the lives of students in Tehama County. Raised in a rural area, she struggled with addiction before finally deciding to return to school and enroll in an alternative education program. With the help of a counselor, she was able to graduate from high school and pursue her dream of becoming a wellness coach.
As part of the state’s Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, Peery is one of over 2,000 certified wellness coaches hired by the Department of Health Care Access and Information. These coaches provide nonclinical support to students, including quick check-ins, screenings, and referrals to specialists. Peery’s own journey has motivated her to give back to students who may be facing similar challenges.
In Tehama County, where Peery works, the need for mental health support is significant. A 2021 study found that 45% of California youth between the ages of 12 and 17 have struggled with mental health issues. The county also has a high suicide rate and a large number of children living below the poverty line. Peery and other wellness coaches play a crucial role in addressing these issues and providing much-needed support to students.
Peery’s approach to wellness coaching goes beyond just providing services to students. She has formed partnerships with organizations like the Tehama County Department of Behavioral Health and Empower Tehama to ensure that students have access to a wide range of resources. By working closely with these organizations, Peery is able to create a network of care that supports students in the long term.
Early intervention is key in addressing mental health issues among students. Savannah Kenyon, a parent and education behavior assistant, emphasized the importance of starting young to help children like her daughter, who was diagnosed with ADHD at an early age. By implementing multidisciplinary interventions and providing support at an early stage, the risk of mental health disorders carrying into adulthood can be significantly reduced.
The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated the mental health crisis among young people in California. School shutdowns have led to increased anxiety, depression, and delays in social development. JoNell Wallace, a school mental health coordinator, noted that interventions are now starting earlier to ensure that students receive the support they need.
Despite the efforts of wellness coaches like Peery and Thomas, there is still a gap in services for students in Tehama County. Understaffing and barriers to access can prevent students from receiving the support they need in a timely manner. However, plans to place additional wellness coaches in elementary and middle schools this fall are a step in the right direction.
For students like Kenyon’s daughter, the support provided by wellness coaches and school counselors has made a significant difference. By addressing mental health issues early and providing ongoing support, students are able to cope better with emotional challenges and thrive in school. The work of wellness coaches like Peery is essential in creating a supportive environment for students in need.
In conclusion, the role of wellness coaches in schools is crucial in addressing the mental health needs of students in Tehama County. Through early intervention, partnership with community organizations, and ongoing support, coaches like Peery are making a positive impact on the lives of students.
