Parents shouldn’t invalidate us
Parents, especially in the Black community, shouldn’t invalidate their child’s feelings when it comes to mental health and speaking about being depressed, having ADHD, and disorders of the such. It is important to me because so many kids don’t get the proper teaching and learning they need to help cope with what they have. So many kids are killing themselves and having their conditions worsening because of their parents invalidating their feelings and it’s honestly devastating. – Brooke, 14
Mental health is something everyone experiences
The ostracization of people with mental health problems and queer youth. It’s important to me because I am someone who suffers from both depression and anxiety while also being part of the LGBTQ+ community. – David, 16
I would talk about how mental health is just as important in young Black men. – Samya, 16
A mental health-related topic I feel is important is anxiety. I think it is important because it’s something everyone goes through. – London, 17
Reduce the stigma surrounding seeking help
One important mental health topic is destigmatizing mental illness. It is crucial to raise awareness and educate the community about mental health issues to reduce the stigma surrounding seeking help and treatment.* – Maya, 17
Why it’s important to be able to pull through a mental health issue and be able to communicate to people. Without communication, you can’t be heard. Keeping your mouth closed also keeps others’ ears closed. There is always a way to recover from a situation and suicide is never the option. If you need support, reach it.* Talk to someone. Suicide only causes more damage. – Jalen, 17
I feel like an important topic to talk about regarding mental health is how neglected it is with most people. Lots of people ignore it deliberately, and that’s not ok. It’s ok to get knocked down, but it’s not ok to let yourself stay down. – Christian, 17
WATCH: Teens speak out with VOX Atl’s Janiya Henderson about what they learned at the Mental Health Teen Summit
*If you or someone you know needs support, please text or call one of these resources:
9-8-8 GA – Please call 9-8-8 if you or someone you know in Georgia is experiencing a mental health crisis. The 9-8-8 line serves all languages and also has a chat function.
Georgia Crisis & Access Line — (GCAL) – 1-800-715-4225, available 24/7. The free MYGCAP app is specific for teens, too, and has a chat function!
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-TALK (8255) also offers 24/7 connection with a trained counselor at a local crisis center, or Text “START” to 741-741
The Trevor Project – Suicide prevention hotline for LGTBQ youth ages 13-24, 24/7/365. Text START to 678-678 to connect to a counselor “who is understanding of LGBTQ issues and won’t judge …. messages are anonymous.”
notOK app is a free digital panic button created by local teens to get immediate support via text, call, or GPS location when you’re struggling to reach out.
