Students offer honest feedback following Ivy Watts’ mental health presentation
By Tracy Christopher on Thursday, October 9th, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
UNION & BAKER COUNTIES — After national mental health speaker Ivy Watts visited Union and Baker County high schools last week to share tools for stress management and self-care, students and staff took time to reflect on what worked — and what could be improved.
According to school counselor feedback, many students appreciated learning practical techniques like the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) tapping method, which helps manage anxiety and improve focus. Several said they planned to use the strategy before tests or during stressful situations.
“I think the tapping was really helpful — it gave us something we can actually do when we’re overwhelmed,” one student shared.
Others, however, felt the presentation was too rehearsed and hoped for more direct, interactive discussions about mental health. Counselors noted this feedback will help improve future events.
“Our students were honest, thoughtful, and respectful in their feedback,” said the school counselor. “They appreciated the effort and message but wanted more relatable examples — especially for athletes and students managing everyday stress and anxiety.”
The presentation was part of a broader regional effort led by Union County CARE Coordinator Sheryln Roberts, with support from New Directions Northwest, Intermountain ESD, Grande Ronde Hospital, Union County Safe Communities Coalition, the Center for Human Development, and OSAA. The goal: to open up conversations about mental health and reduce stigma in local schools.
Organizers say they’re already discussing next steps, including inviting additional speakers — possibly younger or locally connected presenters — and introducing more hands-on mental health programs for middle and high school students.
“This was a valuable step,” said the school counselor. “We’re listening to our students. Their voices will guide what comes next.”
Despite mixed reactions, educators noted that the presentation successfully started a conversation about mental health — something they plan to continue throughout the year.
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(The previous article on Ivy Watt’s visit to Union and Baker Counties can be found here.
