The Boston Youth Mental Health Crisis has become a growing concern in the city. This comes after the recent release of a public mental health report that showed a serious increase in Boston Public School Students who are feeling persistent sadness and hopelessness. It also showed more high school students who are reporting suicidal thoughts. That said, the city will host “Rise Up for Youth Mental Health: Bridging Gaps and Sparking Change.”
The Boston Youth Mental Health Crisis
Back in March, the Boston Public Health Commission released the Health of Boston 2024 Mental Health Report. The report highlights “trends and patterns in mental health condition prevalence for youth and adults, mental health support, emergency department visits related to mental health, and
suicide.”
Some of the more concerning revelations had to do with the serious increase in Boston Public School students who are feeling persistent sadness and hopelessness, as well as more high school students who are reporting suicidal thoughts.
Another area addressed was the pandemic. The report said that despite children and adolescents being at a lower risk for COVID-19 symptoms, they were not spared the mental toll. Things like: isolation, reduced school-based support, altered family circumstances, and losing a loved one to COVID-19, contributed to heightened mental health issues among the youth.
Action Being Taken To Help The Boston Youth Mental Health Crisis
Because of the concerning results of the report, the Boston Public Health Commission’s Center for Behavioral Health and Wellness, has decided to host “Rise Up for Youth Mental Health: Bridging Gaps and Sparking Change.”
The summit series will take place on May 13th, May 28th, and June 3rd. The series is being held not only for Boston youth. It will focus on students ages 14 to 18, and will also include workshops and information for parents and caregivers. Assistance will also be offered and available for school-based mental health care providers and after-school providers.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu Talks Mental Health Awareness Month
Here are the three summit days addressing the Boston Youth Mental Health Crisis you can attend.
