Crestview High School students take part in mental health initiatives during 'Hope Week'

OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. -- In light of WEAR News' series of stories on bullying we wanted to show you what schools are doing to combat mental health issues. "HOPE Week" just wrapped up in Okaloosa County.

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WEAR News went to Crestview High School Friday morning to provide an inside look at how "HOPE Squad" uses this week to show other students how much they matter.

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HOPE Week is all about encouraging one another and showing fellow students they aren't alone in whatever they're struggling with. One way they're doing that this week is by positive affirmations they can give or take as needed.

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"Just seeing that pure happiness, it's just special," said Bella Hernandez, a senior at Crestview High School.

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The smiles and understanding that come from being there for someone, it's why Hernandez enjoys being part of the HOPE Squad at Crestview High -- group of students who are resources for classmates in need.

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"I just want them to know that they are very important and they are very valued," Hernandez said.

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Hernandez and Asher Guillory are just two of the students helping out with HOPE week.

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"We want to inspire everybody to believe that there is so much joy in life," junior Asher said. "And there's so much to live for and that there's so many people that are rooting on them."

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There are all sorts of activities aimed at spreading joy, and breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health. They have banners with handprints signifying a pledge to help others who are struggling, buttons with positive affirmations and even a photo wall.

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Mental health counselor Stacy Burlison says it's things like this that make a difference.

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"They're talking to their peers about mental health," said Burlison. "They're advocating for positive affirmations, and journaling, and coping skills, and they're modeling that. And it's just not a taboo subject anymore. It's something we talk about now.

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"And it's just like a beautiful thing 'cause we're all able to get together and just to share hope and happiness with all of our peers and say, 'you are not alone this week,'" said Asher.

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"Growing up can be hard, and knowing that other people are walking with you, and some of the same paths, and some of the same struggles," Burlison said. "I mean, it just kind of makes this a family here."

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And just because the week is over doesn't mean their efforts are over. HOPE Squad works year-round and they're already brainstorming for HOPE Week next year.

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While HOPE Squads in middle and high schools focus on suicide prevention, the program also exists at the elementary level. There, it focuses more so on kindness and being a friend.

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Originally published online at https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/crestview-high-school-students-take-part-in-mental-health-initiatives-during-hope-week/ar-AA1z58z5