Brockton High students become certified peer mental health supporters
Dozens of teenagers at Brockton High School are now trained to support their peers through mental health struggles. The students have learned skills in conflict resolution, mediation, and crisis intervention. Many young people find it easier to open up to fellow students rather than adults. The training programme covers serious issues like self-harm, eating disorders, depression, bullying, and peer conflicts. Students take part in role-playing exercises to practise real-life responses. Their certification came in March from Pinnacle Partnerships, a mental health education organisation.
Princess Adedyon, one of the trained students, has already put her skills to use. She helped a friend in crisis by applying the conflict resolution techniques she learned. The school’s approach includes creating clear action plans and guiding peers toward professional support when needed.
Next year, the programme aims to grow. Officials plan to extend the training to all health classes, hoping to double the number of student supporters available. The initiative comes as research shows many students—even those who seem fine—turn to peers for help. With more trained supporters, Brockton High expects to provide quicker, more accessible mental health assistance. The school will continue working with Pinnacle Partnerships to expand the programme’s reach.
