Staff Report / Bendlocal.org

**Bend-La Pine Schools Promoting Student Mental Health Resources**

Bend-La Pine Schools in Oregon is actively supporting student mental health with resources readily available on school-issued iPads. The district has introduced the *First Step* app for all middle and high school students, aiming to provide a direct way to seek help for themselves or friends in need.

The First Step app serves as a valuable tool, offering access to several key resources, including:

- The **9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline**, a hotline for immediate assistance during mental health crises.

- The **SafeOregon Tip Line**, where students can report concerns discreetly.

- **YouthLine**, a peer-to-peer youth crisis support line available 24/7.

These resources ensure that students can confidentially share their challenges and access professional or peer support at any time. With the district recognizing mental health's critical importance, the tools aim to remind students that "You are not alone" and reinforce the message: *No judgement. Just help.*

For urgent mental health support, anyone can call or text **9-8-8**, a national lifeline dedicated to providing immediate assistance.

#FirstStepOregon #IAmBendLaPineSchools

Source: Bend-La Pine Schools

Source Type: School

Source Location: Bend

Bend, OR

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