In the bustling halls of Lassen Union High School District, a groundbreaking initiative is transforming how students access mental health resources, right at their fingertips.
Maria Barrera’s Mission
Maria Barrera, deeply moved by the pandemic’s toll on children’s mental health, was driven to action. Witnessing the tragic story of an 8-year-old’s suicide, Barrera felt compelled to make a difference. “We’re in a crisis,” she stated, recognizing the urgent need for mental health support among youth.
Addressing the Gap in Mental Health Services
With staggering statistics from the National Alliance on Mental Illness revealing that only half of children with mental health disorders receive services, Barrera saw an opportunity for change. Enter Clayful, an innovative app designed to provide accessible and convenient mental health support to students.
Clayful: A Beacon of Hope
Clayful serves as a lifeline, connecting students with mental health coaches via text for personalized support. The impact is tangible, with data showing that students who engaged with Clayful during the 2022–2023 school year exhibited significantly improved attendance rates.
Bridging the Divide
Superintendent Morgan Nugent recognized the pressing need to bridge the gap between students and mental health resources. Facing a shortage of counsellors, Nugent saw Clayful as a beacon of hope. “Times have changed,” he remarked, acknowledging the stigma often associated with seeking in-person counselling.
Empowering Students
Implemented in August, Clayful has already begun to make a difference in students’ lives. Nugent shared a touching testimonial from a student, highlighting the app’s transformative impact on their well-being.
A Testimonial of Gratitude
“Thanks for the chat,” expressed an anonymous student, revealing the profound impact Clayful had on their life. “I didn’t know what I was going to do tonight, and then I realized I had Clayful. I started typing, and I didn’t do the bad things I thought I was going to do. So thank you for that,” they concluded, emphasizing the app’s invaluable role in providing support during moments of crisis.
Conclusion: A Beacon of Hope
Clayful represents more than just an app; it’s a beacon of hope for students navigating the complexities of mental health. With its user-friendly interface and personalized support, Clayful is empowering students to prioritize their well-being and seek help when they need it most. As Barrera aptly puts it, “Our goal is to meet young people where they are,” and with Clayful, that goal is being realized, one chat at a time.
