BOSTON — The Boston Public Health Commission will host a series of summits to address growing mental health concerns among young people.
The commission’s Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness will hold “Stand Up for Youth Mental Health: Closing the Gap and Inspiring Change” in South Boston on May 13, May 28, and June 3. .
Officials said the summit is open to Boston youth ages 14 to 18, parents and caregivers, school mental health care providers and after-school providers. The summit will feature mental health resources, activities, food, and giveaways.
Through discussions and activities, participants will have the opportunity to identify gaps in youth mental health services and suggest solutions, such as rethinking the school-to-after-school to home pathway.
“It’s important to ensure everyone has access to mental health supports and services,” Mayor Michelle Wu said in a statement Wednesday. “We are determined to support young people who are struggling with their mental health. We encourage people to attend these events to spark the necessary conversations and discuss how we as a city can do better for our young people. I hope you will share it.”
“More people than ever are struggling with their mental health and well-being, and as a city we are committed to addressing this challenge,” said Bisola, Executive Director of the Boston Public Health Commission and Surgeon General. Dr. Ojikutu says: said in her statement. “These summits are one of the many ways we are working together to better understand mental health needs and, hopefully, improve outcomes. We want to work based on who we are and what we need.”
Officials say a public mental health report released in March found a significant increase in Boston Public Schools students reporting persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness, as well as high school students reporting suicidal thoughts. This summit is being planned in response to this.
More than 40 percent of Boston Public Schools students now report feeling persistent sadness and hopelessness, up from 27 percent in 2015, according to the report. Students who are marginalized or who identify as women or LGBTQ+ are more likely to experience these sad and hopeless feelings. officials said.
“It is clear that Boston needs to develop more mental health services, especially services that address the unique needs of Black, Latinx, Asian, LGBTQ+, and other underserved communities. We are looking at innovative and practical ways to achieve this, and these summits will develop strategies to improve young people’s mental health.” Chief Behavioral Health Officer Dr. Kevin Simon said in a statement.
Officials said the goal of the summit is to create a collaborative environment where participants can openly discuss the challenges facing young people.
Participants who register and participate will also receive a $25 gift card while supplies last.
The event schedule is as follows.
- May 13th from 3pm to 7pm – For youth ages 14-18.
- May 28th from 3pm to 7pm – For parents and caregivers of youth ages 14-18.
- June 3, 1:00pm to 5:00pm – For school mental health providers and after-school providers.
To register for the event or for more information, please visit this website.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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