Most of the messages written on paper flowers by Atwater High students were short but impactful. Messages like: “You’re important,” “You’re enough,” “Be kind,” “Have a fantastic day!” and “You are amazing!” were written on purple and teal flowers and attached to the Hope Garden which was hanging on a wall near the quad on Wednesday afternoon.

 

The AHS HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) club hosted a Suicide Prevention Awareness event during lunch which attracted a large group of students who took part in coming up with the positive messages. 

 

“It was really meaningful to see so many students take the time to write positive and encouraging messages and add them to our Hope Garden,” said Raj Mehat-Murphy, AHS CTE Patient Care Teacher and HOSA advisor.  “It showed that students are willing to support one another and reminded us that even a small message of hope or kindness can make a difference in someone's day.”

 

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, sharing resources, and breaking the stigma around mental health. It was the first of monthly health awareness days that will be hosted by Atwater High’s HOSA charter. 

 

“We will also focus on events such as breast cancer awareness, heart health, mental health, healthcare worker appreciation, blood drives, and other topics that impact our school and community,” Mehat-Murphy said.

 

HOSA members were spread out at different tables to pass out paper flowers and markers for students to write their messages. “A lot of the events that we run are to help spread awareness, so kids don’t feel like they're alone, and we're there to support them,” said AHS HOSA president Arihana Villar. “People are here. These activities help to self-reflect, and let other people know we are here to support you.”

 

Villar has been involved with HOSA all four years of high school and has enjoyed putting on these health awareness activities. “I like bringing all these people together and spreading awareness for something that I'm interested in, and healthcare is something I'm interested in,” she said. “I find this really fun and entertaining.”

 

The purple and teal flowers are the official colors of Suicide Prevention Awareness months. The HOSA members also wore purple shirts. Mehat-Murphy says they wanted to create a visible reminder that we can look out for one another and help create a more supportive community. 

 

“Suicide prevention is important because mental health struggles can affect anyone, and sometimes people may be struggling without others realizing it,” Mehat-Murphy said. “Creating awareness helps reduce the stigma around asking for help and reminds students that they are not alone and that there are people and resources available to support them.”

 

Shawn Jansen is the MUHSD Program Manager Digital Media. He can be reached at Sjansen@muhsd.org.