Professor Facilitates Discussion on Men’s Mental Health
Buffalo, NY – Enhancing Student Well-being: Highlights from St. Francis High School’s Mental Health Symposium
On December 10, St. Francis High School in Buffalo, NY, hosted its inaugural mental health symposium, launching a pivotal monthly initiative aimed at bolstering the mental health of its student body. David Moran, PhD, assistant professor and coordinator of the counseling and school counseling program at Canisius University, served as a key facilitator for the event, which was designed to foster open dialogues about mental health among high school boys.
The symposium began with an introductory presentation spearheaded by representatives from the Mental Health Advocates of Western New York, who emphasized the importance of mental health awareness and education. Following this, Dr. Moran led a focused breakout session that addressed the specific psychological challenges faced by young men during their formative years.
“Adolescence is a critical period marked by significant transitions as boys navigate the complexities of emerging manhood,” Dr. Moran stated. “This developmental stage requires time and space for young males to engage in open discussions about their mental health challenges.” His session underscored the necessity of mental health care tailored for adolescent boys, reframing mental wellness not just as an issue needing treatment, but as an ongoing process integral to overall well-being.
The symposium served as a vital response to a pressing concern within the educational landscape: untreated mental health issues during adolescence can severely hinder both personal development and academic achievement. Research consistently shows that mental health is intricately linked to academic performance, with untended problems potentially affecting a student’s future college and career trajectories.
“As professional counselors, we possess a deep understanding of human growth and development,” Dr. Moran elaborated. “We recognize that neglecting mental health can have far-reaching implications, extending beyond the classroom to influence future opportunities.”
St. Francis High School’s initiative aligns with broader trends in education that advocate for improved mental health resources within schools, recognizing the unique pressures faced by adolescents today. By fostering an environment where students can openly discuss and address their mental health concerns, St. Francis High School aims to cultivate resilience and promote academic success among its students.
This symposium is set to serve as a foundation for ongoing dialogues and support systems, emphasizing the importance of mental health in the holistic development of young men as they prepare for their futures. As educational institutions increasingly prioritize mental health, events like this symposium exemplify proactive measures being taken to ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive both academically and personally.
