Free Mental Wellness Course for Students Now Available on NFHS Learning Center

In response to growing concerns around mental health issues among adolescents nationwide, the NFHS has launched a new online course for high school students that provides education and resources on mental wellness. 

The course, “Student Mental Wellness,” went live last week on the NFHS Learning Center (www.nfhslearn.com) and is available free to the public. It offers a framework for positive mental health; defines stress, anxiety, depression and related issues; and provides strategies and resources for managing mental health concerns. 

 “The NFHS Learning Center is pleased to provide this course for students to create awareness and provide education on the importance of mental health,” said Dan Schuster, NFHS director of educational services. “It is our hope that this education can positively impact the overall interscholastic experience for students across the country.”  

Research has shown that participation in high school athletics and activities has overall positive effects on students’ physical, mental and social-emotional well-being. At the same time, students face pressures from competition, academics and other aspects of life, which can negatively affect mental health. 

Mental health issues are often linked with other health and behavioral risks, making it critical that prevention strategies and resources are available to high school students so they can have a positive, healthy experience. 

In addition to outlining warning signs and providing prevention strategies, the course repeatedly encourages students who are struggling to speak with a parent, coach or other trusted adult to seek support from a counselor, psychologist or other professional. 

People, including high school students, experiencing a mental health crisis should seek immediate help from a trusted adult or local emergency services. 

Since its founding nearly 20 years ago, the NFHS Learning Center has developed online courses addressing key issues in high school sports and activities nationwide. More than 29 million courses have been delivered through the platform.