As students across HHS Region 8 prepare to go back to school, they are experiencing a roller-coaster of emotions. Excitement, anticipation, happiness, and eagerness. However, included in those emotions are fear, loneliness, sadness, and isolation. School can wreak havoc on a student's mental health, and it is more important than ever to be mindful of what our students are feeling. 

In South Dakota, Julie Aune, the Director of Social Services at Human Services Center, has put together some thoughts on how to best help students transition back to school. Julie is a Licensed Certified Social Worker and Qualified Mental Health Professional.

Read Julie's thoughts by clicking here. We hope everyone can have a wonderful school year while learning how to optimize their mental health!