MCIU Project AWARE launches Mental Health Literacy in Pennsylvania

The Montgomery County  Intermediate Unit (MCIU) Project AWARE team is proud to announce the launch of  Mental Health Literacy in Pennsylvania (MHLPA), a free, trusted online hub designed to  connect educators, families, and students (12 and older) with practical mental health  resources. 

Available at mhlpa.com, MHLPA provides ready-to-use guides, conversation starters,  classroom-friendly materials, and help-seeking information to support early detection and compassionate response. All materials are easy to navigate, shareable, and created  with the needs of schools and families in mind. 

Addressing Urgent Mental Health Challenges 

MHLPA builds on the collaborative foundation of Project AWARE to promote positive  mental wellness and address mental health challenges facing schools and communities  across Carbon, Lehigh, Luzerne, and Montgomery counties. According to the 2023  Pennsylvania Youth Survey (PAYS): 

• 71% of students reported good mental health in the past month. •68% of students identified family attachment.
• 44% of students identified opportunities for prosocial involvement at school. •37% experienced sadness or depression most days in the past 12 months.
• 15% engaged in self-harm behaviors.
• 16% seriously considered suicide, and 13% made suicide plans.
• 27% stopped participating in usual activities due to mental health concerns.

MHLPA uses a four-pronged approach to support students, parents, and educators:  promoting positive mental health, understanding mental disorders and treatments,  reducing stigma, and enhancing help-seeking efficacy. 

How Schools and Communities Can Use MHLPA Today 

Schools and communities can integrate MHLPA by adding it to district and school  websites, sharing it in family newsletters, student leadership groups, and staff updates,  and highlighting it during school events, professional development sessions, and parent  workshops. 

For suggestions or resources to feature, contact Pia Houseal at phouseal@mciu.org, or  visit the Project AWARE page for more information.