Breaking The Silence: Youth Mental Health

685 Inca Parkway,Boulder CO 80303

09 October, 2022

Description

There is a crisis in youth mental health. We read about it often. You are invited to learn more and take action. Rev. Dr. Sarah Lund, author of Blessed Youth and the Survival Guide, while on medical leave, will be featured in a pre-recorded message to offer the context for our program. A panel that includes youth and adults from various backgrounds will discuss their perspective on what is needed regarding youth mental health today. Breakout sessions will be offered focusing on: schools, families, faith communities, LGBTQ concerns and suicide prevention. Panel: The panel will be comprised of Ben Knighten, a school psychologist, a youth from OutBoulder, a youth from Colie's closet, Jenna Clinchard of RISE against suicide, and Anna Kim of NAMI. Moderated by Jackie Hibbard, Associate Pastor at CUCC Boulder. Breakout Sessions: Chris Castanda, Out Boulder County - Explore the intersections of LGBTQ+ identities and mental health with an interactive activity called the Identity Star Activity, with the goal of building empathy and awareness of LGBTQ+ experiences. Colie's Closet - Students present warning signs, risk factors, statistics of depression and suicide. Anna Kim (NAMI Boulder County Board Member) - NAMI Ending the Silence is designed to give family members an opportunity to learn about youth mental health conditions through an informative presentation and discussion. The presentation outlines symptoms of mental health conditions and gives attendees ideas about how to help themselves, friends, or family members who may need support. Ben Knighten Ed.S., NCSP (School Psychologist) - Schools and Mental Health Rev. Amelia Richardson Dress, Longmont UCC and Pastor Stephani Shumaker, Atonement Lutheran Church, Boulder -Faith Communities and Mental Health Sponsors: Atonement Lutheran Church, HOPE Coalition of Boulder County and First Congregational Church of Boulder.