The mental health challenges facing teens today are enormous, and I believe that we as adults absolutely need to create "safe spaces" for youth at home, at school, and in communities. In this episode I have a candid and upbeat conversation with Bree Toone, a high school counselor who shares insight into what role parents, teachers, and counselors play in the health and happiness of their kids. We discuss a population that is particularly at risk for bullying and depression, LGBTQ youth, and how Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) clubs can give those kids a sense of belonging, as well as create an atmosphere of acceptance within a school.
Show notes:
This study was mentioned but did not make it into the final cut of the interview. Check it out: https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/simply-having-gay-straight-alliance-reduces-suicide-risk-all-students-180949462/
- Top 10 Social Issues Teens Struggle with Today:
https://www.verywellfamily.com/startling-facts-about-todays-teenagers-2608914
- The Safe Utah App is a really cool idea! : https://healthcare.utah.edu/uni/programs/safe-ut-smartphone-app/
- Finally, I apologize for some "knocking" sounds and background noise that you can hear during the interview. (Hey, it happens)