Caroline Morton sees the impacts of stress and trauma on children and teenagers in the Cabrillo Unified School District.
Some students feel overwhelming pressure to perform at the top of the class. Other students struggle at home where their parents face the challenge of putting food on the table and paying the rent.
Stress and depression among students are a national public health concern: nearly one in three teenagers surveyed by the American Psychological Association report feeling overwhelmed and depressed or sad as a result of stress. Suicide is a leading cause of death among children and young adults.
To turn these numbers around, the County of San Mateo partners with local schools, community-based organizations and other agencies to build up programs that help students overcome cope with stressors and trauma and strengthen connections with other students caring adults. Learn more in this short video featuring Morton and Cabrillo's School Linked Services Program.