Breaking Barriers: How Kids’ Minds Matter is Transforming Teen Mental Health

Over 50,000 children in Southwest Florida face mental health challenges. It’s a startling number. In fact, suicide ranks as the third leading cause of death for young people in the state. But organizations like Kids’ Minds Matter are stepping up to change this. They are working to improve access to mental health services for families and create connections among community partners.

Kids’ Minds Matter connects families with psychologists, child advocates, and social workers to help them find the behavioral health resources they need. The organization also collaborates with local mental health agencies to expand services for kids in the region.

Shining a Light on Mental Health

Each year, Kids’ Minds Matter hosts an event called “Normal is Overrated.” This event invites middle and high school students to discuss important mental health issues. Families, friends, and professionals come together to raise awareness and promote acceptance. This year’s event is set for Saturday, May 3, and will feature interactive discussions aimed at tackling the mental health challenges teens face.

Storytelling plays a key role in this event. Attendees hear powerful personal stories that foster understanding and support early intervention. By sharing experiences of resilience, the event encourages open dialogue about mental health, reminding everyone they are not alone.

This year’s keynote speaker is Michael Rizzo, also known as “Coach Mike.” With over 35 years of experience, Rizzo specializes in helping children and families overcome social and emotional obstacles. As someone who has dealt with ADHD and anxiety, he believes every child has the potential to succeed. His focus on empowering families and educators to support neurodiverse children is inspiring.

Confronting Stigma

Stigma surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help. Events like “Normal is Overrated” aim to normalize these conversations. Kids’ Minds Matter stands firm in its belief that mental health is equally important as physical health and deserves attention and care.

This initiative is not just about one event; it’s a movement. Kids’ Minds Matter invites the community to join them in advocating for better mental health resources and support for children and families facing these challenges. By uniting efforts, they can work towards making mental health care more accessible in schools and breaking down barriers to treatment.

If you’re interested in supporting the cause, whether as a speaker or a sponsor, or if you want to attend “Normal is Overrated,” you can find more details on their website at KidsMindsMatter.com/nio. Admission is free.

Vanessa Ruiz is the child advocacy program manager at Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida.

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Local Columns,Guest Commentary | Kids’ Minds Matter breaks down barriers to teen mental health