Peabody PROMISE Mental Health, Bullying Workshop, Community Update

PEABODY, MA — The recently launched Peabody PROMISE program will share updates and hold a mental health workshop on "When To Worry" at the Higgins Middle School auditorium early next month.

Peabody Mayor Ted Bettencourt said the public meeting will highlight recent developments and provide an opportunity for residents to engage directly with the PROMISE team on Dec. 1 at 6 p.m.

• Peabody To Dedicate Elementary School Bench In Memory Of Jason Bernard
• Peabody Launches Mental Health, Anti-Bullying Website
• 'A Moment For Change': Peabody Parents Call For Urgent Action Against School Bullying

Parents and caregivers are then encouraged to attend the free mental health workshop in the Higgins Middle School library beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The PROMISE program launched this summer in response to ongoing concerns within the schools and the city about student mental health and bullying following the death of eighth-grader Jason Bernard. Bernard's family said the Higgins student took his own life this past spring amid bullying fears.

Peabody PROMISE is designed to strengthen local support and resources for mental health wellness, bullying prevention and suicide prevention.

Registration is required for the workshop, as space is limited.

"Whether you are an active member of an action team, a supporter sharing resources, or simply interested in learning more, your participation is vital to building a healthier, more connected Peabody," the mayor's office said in announcing the forum and workshop.

More on the Peabody PROMISE program can be found here.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)