Spaces designed by adults may not always be welcoming environments for youth, especially when it comes to sharing vulnerable topics like mental health. Listening to youth perspectives on what they need to feel safe and supported is vital to increasing the likelihood that they will seek the help of an adult when it matters most. The resources below from youth around the region provide practical suggestions about tangible actions you can take to help the youth around you feel safe and supported.

Learn More

READ:

Create a Safe Space for Youth to Discuss their Mental Health

  • Read the short toolkit Reducing Stigma Against Youth Mental Health developed by the Northwest CHIR’s BHI’s Reduce Stigma Against Youth Mental Health Action Team to learn about what you can do to create a safe space for youth to discuss their mental health.

-OR-

LISTEN:

Strategies to Promote Youth Mental Health & Well-Being

  • Listen to Podcast Episode 5 created by the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation’s Youth Wellness Initiative to learn about youth-selected strategies to promote youth mental health and well-being.

Take Action

Enhance Community Capacity

Sponsor a youth focused Mental Health Awareness Training at your organization or attend one on your own

-OR-

Bolster Youth Voice

Distribute the Youth Photovoice Guide and Recommendations to your colleagues and local school leadership.

Question of the Day

How can adults create safe spaces for young people to talk about mental health?

Do You Want To Learn More? Check Out These Additional Resources:

Youth Recommendations

Review the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation’s Youth Wellness Initiative’s recommendations about how to improve youth mental health (pages 27-29).

Spread The Word!

Community Resources:

Thank you to our 2024 sponsors:

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