Olivia Brooks – Staff Writer
With the pressure of social media and the competitiveness and rigor of school, it is no wonder that many teens across the country suffer from some type of mental illness. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, one in five teens currently live with a mental health disorder, and this statistic is on the rise. Due to this, the Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center reports that suicide is the third leading cause of death in all youths.
As part of a growing effort to combat this mental health crisis, there will be several screenings of “Angst,” a documentary that delves into all aspects of anxiety and stress, and highlights interviews with children, teens, parents, educators, and experts on the subject. Mental health is an essential part of students’ wellbeing, and the documentary explores how debilitating disorders can be that affect one’s mental health, as well as the positive results of seeking aid and support from family, teachers, or professionals.
The film is 55 minutes long and geared towards children and teens, as well as their parents and guardians, and afterwards features a panel of local experts representing HCPSS, Horizon Foundations, Grassroots Crisis Intervention Center, clinicians, and students. The panel will share important information on the documentary and current mental health epidemic, plus answer questions from the audience and provide relevant anecdotes based on their experiences. Attendees will also be able to take home a bundle of resource papers for further help or study.
A vital point to remember is that despite the increase in teen mental health disorders, there are always ways to boost one’s mental stability. Teens have a plethora of resources available to them, including aspects of self care they can fulfill at home. Senior Hana Cho suggested that “stressed teens can exercise or walk outside.” Junior Gloria Cai said, “I take naps when I feel tired or stressed.”
“Angst” will be screened at 6:30 on Tuesday, April 2 at Howard High School; Thursday, April 4 at Hammond High School; Tuesday, April 9 at Glenelg High School; and Wednesday, April 10 at Mt. Hebron High School. The screening is free to attend. For additional information, visit the Howard County Public School System website.
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