Youth mental health is important. Let's Talk!

What if I'm feeling off?

Talk to a trusted adult, like a teacher, coach, counselor, or parent.

Or, call or text 988.

Affirmations

Affirmations support youth mental health by boosting self-esteem, fostering resilience, and encouraging a positive mindset. Simple phrases like “I am enough” help combat negativity and build confidence, promoting emotional well-being and strength.

Worksheet

Using a worksheet to process your thoughts and feelings is a powerful tool for self-awareness. It helps you understand your emotions, regulate them more effectively, and gain clarity about your relationships. By putting your thoughts on paper, you can identify patterns, set boundaries, and build healthier, stronger connections with others.

Stickers

Stickers with motivational and positive messages are more than just a fun way to decorate. They can be daily reminders to stay optimistic, believe in themselves, and keep going even when things get tough. Whether on a water bottle, laptop, or school binder, these stickers can boost self-esteem and spread good vibes, not just to the user but to everyone who sees them. They’re a simple, creative way to encourage your best self, one sticker at a time!

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Youth Resources

Here are some mental health resources for teens:

In Virginia:

1. NAMI Virginia (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
   Offers support, education, and advocacy for young people and families affected by mental health challenges. Visit their website
2. Youth Mental Health Corps
   A program in Virginia using a near-peer model to engage young adults in AmeriCorps service to support youth mental health. Visit their website
3. Mental Health Virginia
   Provides a range of resources and support for individuals and families dealing with mental health issues. Visit their website
4. Voices for Virginia's Children
   Focuses on improving access to youth mental health care and advocating for better mental health services in Virginia. Visit their website
5. NAMI Virginia Main Page
   Offers free mental health support, online groups, and educational resources for residents across Virginia. Visit their website

National:

1. SAMHSA's National Helpline‍: Offers free, confidential, 24/7 support and treatment referrals. Visit their website

2. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)‍: Provides essential information and resources for young people seeking mental health support. Visit their website

3. Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine‍: Offers online resources specifically for adolescents and young adults. Visit their website

4. The Trevor Project: The leading suicide prevention and crisis intervention nonprofit organization for LGBTQ+ young people. Visit their website

5. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Features information on child and adolescent mental health, including warning signs and how to find help. Visit their website

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Statistics

Be in the know:

1. Prevalence of Mental Health Challenges:
   
   • In 2023, 33% of high school students in Virginia reported experiencing persistent sadness, and 18% of middle school students said their mental health was "not good" most of the time1.
   • LGBTQ+ high school students reported significantly higher rates of mental health challenges, with 64% experiencing persistent sadness and 34% considering suicide1.
2. School-Based Mental Health:
   
   • School-based mental health services are being expanded to address the crisis to improve accessibility12.
3. Suicide and Self-Harm:
   
   • Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-241.
   • In 2023, 20% of high school students seriously considered suicide1.
4. Positive Trends:
   
   • The percentage of high school students feeling persistently sad or hopeless dropped slightly from 42% in 2021 to 40% in 20231.

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For immediate help, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 988. Call 911 for immediate medical emergencies.