Real World Issues & Concerns
Grief and LossPeople of all ages are affected at various times and often suddenly by loss. Research shows that both age and gender affect the way that people process and respond to a loss. HelpGuide.org has a robust section about grief and loss. School counselors and district psychologists are available to assist you at school if you are dealing with a loss. You can also download the District 49 grief and loss support packet.Additional resources are available after hours, too. You can contact the crisis hotline at 719.633.3819, or the Aspen Pointe crisis line 719.635.7000.
Talking About the Netflix Series, "13 Reasons Why "A popular show on Netflix, "13 Reasons Why" explores a number of very challenging issues in our society. The National Association of School Psychologists provides a talking point document for parents and professionals that may be used to guide conversation about the controversial series. Download the NASP "13 Reasons Why" talking points.
Getting High, CuttingThere are numerous issues, both good and bad, that students face every day. Below are just a few of the issues that students have faced in our buildings, that counselors in District 49 are trained to help with and associated websites that provide valuable information.
You can find an addiction recovery center at Recovery.org.
- Alcohol consumption is starting earlier and earlier and for many different reasons.
- Drug use continues to increase and can start as early as elementary school. Although there continues to be issues with illegal drug use, the current trend is to misuse over-the-counter and prescription drugs.
- Cutting is a self-mutilation that people engage in to try to stop emotional pain. This is not the same as a suicide attempt. Most cutters do so on areas of their body that can be easily covered with clothing such as arms and thighs.