Mental health is key to having a successful school year. Cardozo High School promotes many programs for students who need an extra boost. PIP, or the Prevention and Intervention Program, is located in Room 127. It is one of the key programs Cardozo offers for student support.
PIP is brought to Cardozo students through the Jewish Board, a non-profit organization, that promotes mental health and academic success. “PIP is a space where you can talk about anything and all mental health concerns and needs will be met, and it’s a safe space for you to come,” explained Jamie Lauer, a social worker at Cardozo High School who works for the program.
PIP is a perfect place to converse with a friendly face and find support for all types of needs. “I will never turn a student away, my door is always open. If you’re having a bad day and need someone to talk to, you can just come in and talk to me,” Lauer continued.
Lauer believes in providing a comfortable space for students to break off from stress, stating, “I want them to know they can come here as well, and talk to me and it’s a safe, confidential space and whatever they talk about, stays in here.”
Life can sometimes be stressful, and Lauer recommends acknowledging your feelings and putting yourself first.
“If you are noticing that ‘Maybe I’m feeling anxious,’ or ‘Maybe I’m a little sad,’ not avoiding it and doing something to take care of yourself is really important. I like to tell everyone that self-care is really important, especially as a student,” Lauer explained.
PIP and the Guidance Office are very similar places in that they are both safe spaces for students — both open doors for students to express their minds to helpful assistants. “What we both do have in common is the mental health stuff, you can come to me, or to guidance, we are all trained to assist with mental health needs.”
It’s important, as a student, to recognize when you need a break. “It’s a really great program, not all schools have them so I really would encourage students to take advantage of it, and utilize our services,” Lauer reflected.
Spread the word, if you or someone you know may need a mental health break, stop by room 127 to talk to Jamie Lauer. She’s available throughout the school day, always ready to help you, with a smile on her face.
