Brockton High students become peer mental health first responders

Dozens of teenagers at Brockton High School are now trained to support their peers through mental health struggles. The students completed a programme that teaches them how to recognise and respond to issues like self-harm, depression, and bullying. Many young people find it easier to open up to friends than to adults, making this initiative a direct way to reach those in need. The training covers conflict resolution, mediation, and mental health first aid. Students take part in role-playing exercises to practise handling situations like eating disorders, peer conflicts, and emotional crises. Their goal isn’t to solve problems themselves but to guide classmates toward professional help.

Princess Adedyon, one of the trained students, has already put her skills into action by assisting a friend in crisis. She stays calm by reminding herself that she’s prepared for difficult moments. The group earned certification from Pinnacle Partnerships in March, marking their readiness to support others.

Next year, the school plans to expand the programme to all health classes. This will double the number of trained students, ensuring more peers can step in when someone needs help. Even those who appear confident may be quietly seeking support from their friends. The initiative gives students practical tools to help their peers navigate mental health challenges. By widening the training, Brockton High aims to create a stronger support network within the school. The focus remains on connecting struggling students with the right resources.