Resource Library-Notice. Talk. Act.® at School: Middle School Student Handout

Pdf Summary

This document emphasizes the importance of maintaining mental health just as one would physical health, highlighting that caring for your brain is essential to being your best self. It encourages paying attention to behavioral changes in yourself and friends, especially signs of stress that might be subtle. For middle schoolers, these signs include spending more time alone, mood changes such as irritability, expressing feelings of sadness or loneliness, increased fear or worry, sudden loss of interest in school, substance use, and posting negative content online.<br /><br />The guide stresses the value of talking about these feelings as a way to support oneself or friends. It offers practical tips for creating a comfortable and private environment for conversations, being a good listener, showing care without judgment, and being honest about your feelings. Suggestions include simple phrases to start conversations when unsure what to say.<br /><br />Importantly, the document urges action when help is needed. Seeking support is framed not as “telling on a friend,” but as a caring step to ensure safety and well-being. If someone is at risk of harming themselves or others, they should immediately reach out to a trusted adult like a school counselor, teacher, parent, or coach. Additionally, the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline (988) is available 24/7 for confidential support.<br /><br />Overall, the message is clear: notice changes, talk openly, and act by getting help when necessary—because everyone sometimes needs support to maintain mental wellness and safety. Further resources are available online at apaf.org/schools.

Asset Caption

This resource aims to increase middle school students’ awareness about signs of potential mental health concerns they themselves or their friends may be experiencing, provide guidance on how to talk to someone about these concerns, and share different ways to act to get connected to mental health resources if needed.

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Keywords

mental health

brain care

behavioral changes

stress signs

middle schoolers

emotional support

communication tips

seeking help

suicide prevention

crisis hotline