The teens are part of a public service campaign to aimed helping to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo. — Teens across Colorado have discovered their voices and are sharing personal stories of mental health struggles that could be the key to saving a life.
A 2018 report from Colorado’s Attorney General (AG) on suicide in the state found that between 2015 and 2017, there were 222 suicide deaths among young people (ages 10-18). Close to 68% of them were young men (150 deaths), and 32% were young women (72 deaths).
According to the report, more young women attempt suicide, but more young men end up taking their own lives.
“[I want] for kids to know that they can talk to their parents, that it’s okay to struggle, that’s important,” said Attorney General Phil Weiser. “If kids think they have to be perfect, that they can’t share any concerns, they’re going to be more vulnerable.”
Removing the stigma around mental health is a goal of the group behind a new series of public service announcements. The Teens2Teens campaign is a compilation of 40 short videos showcasing teens from across Colorado sharing how they’ve personally been impacted by suicide or struggles with their mental health. They also offer advice to parents about how to help kids who may be having suicidal thoughts.
Author: Jordan Chavez
