As the crisis deepens, young people in Washington are facing unprecedented challenges to their mental health. State Attorney General Bob Ferguson recognized the urgency of the situation and launched a new program called “HearMeWA.” This initiative is the first of its kind in the state, offering a statewide reporting system for youth to access counseling services.
Makena Crosser from Bainbridge Island, a member of the HearMeWA youth advisory group, emphasized the importance of providing a safe space for young individuals to share their concerns. She highlighted issues such as bullying, mental health, domestic violence, gender identity, and school safety threats. The program aims to support youth in navigating these challenges by providing a toll-free helpline, online reporting option, and text support for individuals aged 25 and younger.
The reports received through HearMeWA are handled by trained counselors at the Sandy Hook Promise National Crisis Center. Unlike traditional crisis hotlines, this program allows for tracking and updating of reports, ensuring that each case is followed up on effectively. The development of the program was a collaborative effort involving over 1,300 youth-focused organizations and will continue to evolve based on feedback received from the community.
Conner Mertens from Kennewick spearheaded the initiative and emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health and reducing stigma associated with seeking help. He believes that HearMeWA is a beacon of hope for those struggling with mental health issues and encourages continued advocacy for awareness and support systems.
The website HearMeWA.org is now live, allowing teens to access support by texting “HearMeWA” to 738477.