Let’s Talk About Mental Health: Navigating pediatric mental health in Big Sky 

Nurturing minds and cultivating resilience 

By Maeve Clinton GUEST COLUMNIST 

As the ski season becomes summer here in Big Sky, there’s a topic that’s sometimes overlooked in our small community: mental health support for our children and young adults.  

As a rural community, we lack the resources to support our young minds, and their struggles are sometimes overlooked or go unaddressed. As a deeply embedded member of this community, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact mental health challenges have on our children. As a community, we need to work together to actively seek solutions to nurture the well-being of our youngest residents. 

We are a small town—we know our neighbors by name, and the pace of life often feels more manageable. However, access to mental health resources is scarce, leaving our children and young adults vulnerable in their struggles. One of the most pressing issues we face is the shortage of mental health professionals in Big Sky, both at the pediatric and adult levels. 

But what steps can we take to address these challenges and foster a healthier community for our children? 

Our community has already begun to take strides in this direction. Initiatives such as Wellness in Action and Be Well Big Sky have emerged as pillars of support, providing resources and guidance to our community members. These programs, alongside dedicated providers, offer crucial assistance in filling the void left by the shortage of mental health professionals in our area. Additionally, telehealth services have proven to be a lifeline in connecting children and families with therapists and counselors regardless of location, breaking down traditional barriers to care. 

Our schools play a pivotal role in our children’s lives. Big Sky School District, Discovery Academy and Morningstar Learning Center work to foster a culture of empathy and support. The teachers and staff are dedicated to supporting the children here in Big Sky. Through mindfulness exercises, holistic skill development, and integrated mental health education, the schools aim to equip our students with the tools and resources they need to navigate the complexities of childhood and adolescence. By incorporating discussions on mental health into our curriculum, we empower our students to develop coping mechanisms and dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness. 

By utilizing our local resources and the expertise of our community members, we create a safety net of support for our community. However, the most profound solution lies in the simple act of listening.  

I’ve noticed in my personal and professional life that the greatest gift we can offer is our undivided attention and empathy. By creating safe spaces for children to share their thoughts and feelings, we can validate their experiences and allow them to grow. To truly support our youngest residents, we must cultivate a sense of belonging and acceptance within our community, where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength rather than weakness. 

Another way to ensure we are supporting our children is by attending educational workshops and community meetings. Each month, Discovery Academy holds a town hall meeting for parents focused on educating community members regarding signs of mental health issues in children, effective communication strategies for parents, and self-care techniques for supporting one’s mental well-being. These town hall meetings are free and open to the public. By attending these meetings, we can create a supportive and inclusive environment where children and families feel comfortable seeking help and accessing the resources they need. By raising awareness and reducing stigma, we help normalize conversations about mental health and promote early intervention and support for children who may be struggling. 

Looking ahead, I am filled with hope for the future of pediatric mental health in Big Sky. By embracing innovation, prioritizing education and fostering collaboration, we can ensure that every child feels seen, heard and valued.  

Together, let us continue to nurture minds and cultivate resilience, guiding our community toward a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow. 

Maeve Clinton works at Big Sky Discovery Academy as the Guidance Counselor.