Given the importance of mental health, the Academy recently arranged for a well-known speaker, Nic Newling, to come and talk with students in the 10-12 division. Mr. Newling’s personal mental health story presentation follows the highs and lows of managing a mood disorder in school, the challenges of being misdiagnosed, and the grief of losing his brother to suicide.
- He details his temporary efforts to “be normal” and to keep his struggles a secret, all while facing the usual challenges of high school.
- In this storytelling and Q&A session, he explores the often-hidden experiences of mental illness and the importance of speaking up and helping one another, along with practical suggestions about how to make a meaningful positive difference. This thought-provoking presentation is emotionally impactful, humorous at times, honest, and most importantly, filled with hope.
- For more information about Mr. Newling and his organization, The Champions, please visit their website.
Following the thought-provoking presentation, faculty advisors met with students in small groups to check on their well-being and get their feedback.
