The Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts (PHIWM) and MiraVista Behavioral Health Center have teamed up to launch a campaign called “Adolescent Mental Health Doesn’t Take a Vacation.” The goal of this campaign is to raise awareness about the emotional wellness of young people and remind them that resources are available when they are struggling emotionally.
Recent surveys in western Massachusetts have shown an increase in students reporting symptoms of depression. To address this issue, PHIWM believes it is crucial to normalize discussions around mental health and lift up hope and possibilities. Dr. Kathleen Szegda, Senior Director of Community Research and Evaluation for PHIWM, emphasized the importance of promoting positive outlooks among adolescents. She discussed how adults can stay alert and support adolescents outside of school by suggesting activities like library programs and volunteering to combat feelings of loneliness and foster connections among teens during difficult times.
22News, a local news station affiliated with NBC, has been delivering news, network shows, syndicated content, and local programming in western Massachusetts since March 1953. Viewers can watch the 22News digital edition on weekdays at 4 p.m., which includes coverage on mental health issues affecting adolescents in the region.
