Sarah Jackson often hears her 14-year-old twins talk about their friends’ struggles. That’s why she took them to the MayDay for Mental Health Symposium in Akron. She hopes they learn how to spot when someone is in trouble, including themselves. “I want them to know the signs that someone is struggling,” Sarah shared. “I want them to feel safe reaching out when they need help.”
The symposium was a gathering place for families, students, and mental health professionals to discuss youth mental health and suicide prevention. It took place at the Akron-Summit County Public Library, emphasizing the importance of open conversations and early intervention during crises. “Connection and communication can save lives,” said Ciara Dennis-Morgan, a wellness officer at the Minority Behavioral Health Group.
Sherry Blair, a youth suicide prevention supervisor at Akron Children’s Hospital, noted that breaking the stigma is vital. “If kids are struggling, they should feel they can talk to their parents without fear of getting in trouble,” she said.
This event was organized by multiple community organizations, including the Summit County Court of Common Pleas and NAMI Summit County. It featured sessions where parents learned how to approach mental health topics, while students engaged in discussions led by their peers.
Understanding mental health is critical. “Mental health is not just about illness; it’s about addressing stress and distress,” said Blair. “Everyone experiences moments of difficulty, and we all deserve understanding.”
In recent years, mental health issues among youth have surged, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the CDC, over 44% of high school students reported persistent sadness in 2021—up from previous years. Phoebe Boyd, a 22-year-old speaker at the symposium, discussed her experience with depression, explaining how therapy helped her navigate tough times. “Talking to a therapist made a big difference in understanding my emotions,” she noted.
In these youth discussions, students raised issues like bullying and insufficient mental health support in schools. Jamie Messenger from NAMI Summit County reported, “Students feel schools are not handling bullying well, which adds to their stress.” Addressing these issues is essential for establishing a nurturing environment.
Identifying warning signs in young people is crucial. Changes in behavior, such as becoming withdrawn or losing interest in activities, can signal distress. “If you notice something off, just ask, ‘Is everything okay?’” reminded Messenger. Early intervention can lead to effective support.
Access to care remains a challenge. Rising healthcare costs can make it hard for families to seek help. Recent data shows that some families skip needed care due to financial strain, highlighting a need for improved mental health resources.
Local police are also adapting to better respond to mental health emergencies. Officer Melanie Bailey shared that the Akron police have developed programs like the Crisis Intervention Team, which focuses on de-escalation and connecting individuals to necessary services. They work closely with social workers and medical staff to provide comprehensive support. “Often, people just need someone to listen to them,” Bailey said.
Combining efforts from families, schools, health professionals, and law enforcement is key to effectively addressing mental health concerns. By fostering open conversations and providing resources, the community can make meaningful strides in supporting its youth.
