An article I recently read talked about how a group made up of several teenagers whose ages ranged from 14-18 found comfort in each other and learned how to improve their mental health. Mental health in teens has skyrocketed recently, partly due to the influence of screens and social media. The statistics prove the point even further: 1 in 10 students have attempted suicide and 1 in 5 have seriously considered it. COVID only furthered this crisis by isolating teens even more than usual and increasing depression. In an effort to stop teenagers’ constant battles with mental health, Myers Park Presbyterian church established a program which offers support and an outlet to those that need it. The reality is that a lot of teens are struggling with mental health and some of the people who say they are okay might not be. During the meeting, the teens checked in with each other (asked each other how they were doing and made sure that everyone was stable). After talking about their feelings, they split up into groups to eat and socialize. Reading this article made me realize how big an impact that having a community can have on a person and how an idea that the church might have had could have saved lives. Researching the amygdala will help scientists uncover solutions/treatments and will prioritize what needs to be researched.
SOURCE:
Out of My Mind 