SAN JOSE, CALIF.—Silver Creek High School’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) club and their members, Serene Vuong and Allison Clark, created an Instagram account promoting mental health awareness and importance.

Vuong and Clark received help from Emily Harrington, the school social worker, to figure out ways to connect to students that encourage them to prioritize mental health. This organization was made to provide a variety of mental health resources, tools, and assistance. Both Vuong and Clark have a passion for helping others and making a positive impact in their
community.

As part of the HOSA club, the students were given many options to study about a specific cause. After some long thinking, promoting mental health popped out to them since both Vuong and Clark are interested in following pathways in relation to those type of social services.

“Even though handling the account and posting daily is challenging, especially with school, I really hope my dedication helps someone out there and brightens up their day in some way,” said Vuong. Both students know about the importance of growing your mental well-being, especially among their peers, and they saw a chance to make valuable resources for those in need.

Their top priority in HOSA is to better the community’s well-being, but the two main risk factors are mentioning sensitive topics, such as eating disorders and substance abuse. On their Instagram, they post every day on their page. The daily posts are meant to send mental health reminders to help individuals when they’re having a rough day and are looking for an online outlet. “I decided to start this account and project because of the comfort I find in knowing my dedication can help even just one person in my community,” said Clark. Another way they promote mental health is by making small events during lunch that include food, raffles, and more.

On Jan. 14, HOSA will be competing with other students from the East Side Union High School District (ESUHSD), to see who has the most outstanding page. If the page, (Mental Health Matters) wins, this further advocates better opportunities for Silver Creek’s HOSA in terms of gaining popularity and spreading the message of the significance of supporting mental health practices.