This blog is based on an article originally published by Jesse White in the Mesabi Tribune Read the full article here.
Minnesota schools are taking a proactive approach to student mental health, prioritizing well-being and resilience through sustainable, evidence-based prevention programs. Thanks to funding from SAMHSA’s Project AWARE grant, nearly 80 students from St. Louis County and Mountain Iron-Buhl School Districts recently participated in Sources of Strength peer leader training, equipping them with tools to foster stronger, more connected school communities.
Empowering Students as Leaders in Mental Health
The Project AWARE Mental Health Grant is a five-year initiative designed to create system-wide mental health support in schools, ensuring students and staff have the resources they need to thrive. Through this initiative, Minnesota schools are embedding prevention strategies that prioritize well-being, connection, and resilience—all key factors in reducing suicide, bullying, and substance abuse.
At the recent training event, students engaged in face-to-face conversations and interactive activities designed to deepen their understanding of one another. In a world dominated by social media, these authentic connections help break down barriers, allowing students to recognize shared experiences and build a supportive school culture.
Kristi Berlin, director of teaching and instruction for both districts, emphasized the impact of this training:
“Genuine, face-to-face conversations with peers allow students to build deeper connections and recognize shared experiences. By engaging in these conversations, students develop essential social and emotional skills that foster a more inclusive and supportive school environment.”
Evidence-Based Prevention That Lasts
Sources of Strength is a nationally recognized, evidence-based prevention program that shifts the focus from risk factors to protective factors. By using peer social networks, it creates lasting change in school culture, helping students strengthen their connections, resilience, and help-seeking behaviors.
Research shows that when students feel connected at home, in school, and within their communities, they are more likely to succeed academically and develop long-term goals.
With peer-led initiatives, schools build a culture of prevention that extends beyond immediate challenges, making mental health support an integral part of the school community.
A Sustainable Commitment to Mental Health
By prioritizing staff and student well-being, Minnesota schools are ensuring that mental health support is not just a short-term initiative but a long-term investment. With Project AWARE funding, schools are able to implement sustainable prevention work that fosters ongoing student leadership, resilience, and positive school environments.
As these peer leaders bring their training back to their schools, they will spark meaningful conversations and initiatives that strengthen mental health awareness and support among their peers.
This work underscores the power of community-driven solutions in building healthier, more connected schools.
Investing in Mental Health for a Stronger Future
Thanks to SAMHSA’s Project AWARE grant, Minnesota schools are taking a sustainable, evidence-based approach to mental health prevention. Programs like Sources of Strength are empowering students to lead the charge in fostering connection, resilience, and support.
To learn more about the impact of Project AWARE and Sources of Strength in Minnesota, visit https://www.samhsa.gov/grants/grant-announcements/sm-23-001.
If you’d like to learn more about Secondary programs head to sourcesofstrength.org/secondary or (Contact Us) button.