Student Life
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
Raider Recap
A quick look at Mental Health Awareness Month and how the Anamosa Raiders community can support one another with awareness, compassion, and resources.
Every May, communities across the country pause to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month - a time to acknowledge the challenges so many people face, often silently. Here in Anamosa, the Raider community has always been built on connection, resilience, and looking out for one another. This month is a reminder that those values matter just as much off the field as they do on it.
Mental health struggles don’t always look the same. They can affect students, teachers, athletes, families, and friends. And the truth is, many people who seem strong on the outside may be carrying more than they let on.
Talking about mental health isn’t a weakness. It’s a lifeline.
Mental Health by the Numbers
Understanding the scope of the issue helps break the stigma. Here are a few key statistics from national mental health organizations:
1 in 5 U.S. teens and adults experiences a mental health condition each year.
More than 40% of high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for people ages 10–34.
Over half of people who need mental health support never receive it.
These numbers aren’t just statistics - they represent classmates, teammates, and neighbors. They represent people in our own Anamosa community.
The “I’m Glad You Stayed” Project
One organization making a meaningful impact is the I’m Glad You Stayed Project, a nonprofit focused on suicide prevention, mental health education, and community support.
Their message is simple but powerful: “I’m glad you stayed.”
Those four words can change a life. The project works to:
Provide mental health education
Support individuals and families affected by suicide
Encourage open conversations
Promote hope and connection
It’s a reminder that even when things feel overwhelming, someone cares. Someone wants you here. Someone is glad you stayed.
What Mental Health Awareness Means for Anamosa HS
At Anamosa High School, students and staff work hard - in the classroom, on the field, and in the community. But mental health is just as important as academics or athletics.
This month is an opportunity for:
Students to check in on friends and teammates
Parents to start conversations at home
Teachers and coaches to remind students that asking for help is okay
The entire Raider community to show compassion and understanding
Being a Raider means supporting one another - not just during games, but in everyday life.
If You’re Struggling Right Now
If things feel heavy, here’s something you deserve to hear:
You matter. You are not alone. You deserve support.
Talking to someone you trust - a friend, a parent, a teacher, or a counselor can be a powerful first step. You don’t have to carry everything by yourself.
Helpful Resources
These organizations offer support, information, and crisis assistance:
I’m Glad You Stayed Project: Mental health education and suicide‑prevention advocacy
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): Support groups and educational resources (Also located downtown Anamosa)
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Free, confidential support 24/7
Crisis Text Line: Text‑based support for people in emotional distress
The Trevor Project: Support for LGBTQ+ youth
Sharing these resources could help someone who needs them.
Website Resources:
nami.org
A Final Message for Raider Recap Readers
Mental Health Awareness Month is more than a campaign, it’s a reminder that every person in the Anamosa Raiders community deserves to feel supported, valued, and heard.
If you’re struggling, we’re glad you’re here. If you’re supporting someone else, thank you for showing up. And if you’re reading this, remember: your story matters, and you’re not alone.
You can request more information by emailing support@raiderrecap.com or email a counselor.