This month in recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we have been sharing messages from our HOPE Squads at our secondary schools around the importance of mental health on our social media. We recognize that the mental health of our staff is just as important as that of our students, and wanted you to know that a number of different supports are available for you to access as you need them.

Resources for Your Mental Health

• EAP: Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is offered to all staff to address personal problems that can adversely affect an employee's ability to function on the job. The EAP offers mental health services, as well as Work-Life Convenience services which include: financial and legal assistance, identity theft assistance, elderly care, childcare, and more. Learn more about our EAP Program here.
• Therapist: Christine Eckblad, our new Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), has begun seeing patients on 9/20 at the Elmbrook Family Wellness Center. Christine offers a wide range of mental health help including navigating anxiety, depression, and family challenges. All for the low cost of $20 a session (until you’ve met your deductible). You may book an appointment with her now, please call today to schedule your appointment. As a reminder, you do not need to clock-out for visits to the clinic, but you must be enrolled in Elmbrook’s health insurance to use our LCSW.
• Teladoc: The District also offers virtual mental health care as part of our Benefits package through Teladoc. Teladoc offers you the option to see a therapist virtually when it works for your schedule.  You must be enrolled in the Elmbrook health insurance to use Teladoc.

Resources for You As An Advocate

• QPR Training: Elmbrook’s Health Services department will be hosting another QPR Suicide Prevention training in the coming months. These trainings teach participants how to help colleagues and others who may be in crisis, and are a valuable asset to everyone. This can also count towards professional learning hours. More information on the upcoming training will be distributed in the near future.
• HOPE Squad: If you work at Pilgrim Park, Wisconsin Hills, Brookfield Central, or Brookfield East - ask your Hope Squad advisors what you can do to get involved and help support the mission of your Hope Squad to continue to enrich your school culture of wellness
• DPI’s Youth Suicide Prevention Resources: Available here.
• Waukesha County Resources: Available here.
• Being a Good Friend to a Teen with Depression: Available here.

You matter to our District, our students, and our staff, and we thank you for all that you do.