Episode 182: Leading Our Youth

Youth Mental Health: Empowerment, Challenges, and Community Support

In this week’s podcast episode, Chief Victory Officer, Eric Guy is joined by Deputy Mental Health Administrator of Beaver County Behavioral Health, Elisia Majors, and County Outreach Program Specialist at Beaver County Rehabilitation Center, Susan Smith, who both oversee the Youth Ambassador Program (YAP). Together, they discuss the mental health challenges that youth face today. They also share how we can empower young people to support each other, break stigma, and foster a community of understanding.

In the latest episode of the Your Best Day Yet podcast, Chief Victory Officer Eric Guy hosts a compelling discussion with Elisia Majors, Deputy Mental Health Administrator of Beaver County Behavioral Health, and Susan Smith, County Outreach Program Specialist at Beaver County Rehabilitation Center. Together, they explore the mental health challenges faced by today’s youth and share insights on empowering young people to support one another, dismantle stigma, and build a community grounded in understanding and empathy.

The Impact of Social Media

One of the primary topics discussed in the episode is the significant influence of social media on the mental health of youth. Social media platforms, while offering opportunities for connection and self-expression, can also exacerbate feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression. The constant comparison with peers, cyberbullying, and the pressure to curate a perfect online persona can take a substantial toll on young people’s mental well-being.

Elisia Majors emphasizes the importance of educating youth about the realities of social media and encouraging them to develop a healthy relationship with these platforms. She suggests that parents, educators, and mental health professionals work together to help young people navigate the complexities of the digital world. By fostering critical thinking and self-awareness, youth can learn to use social media in a way that supports their mental health rather than undermines it.

Developing Wellness and Coping Skills

Another crucial point discussed is the need for young people to develop wellness and coping skills. These skills are essential for managing stress, building resilience, and maintaining mental health. Susan Smith highlights that many youths are not equipped with the necessary tools to handle the pressures they face daily.

The Youth Ambassador Program (YAP), overseen by Majors and Smith, focuses on equipping young people with these vital skills. Through workshops, peer support groups, and educational campaigns, YAP aims to empower youth to take control of their mental health. By teaching coping mechanisms such as mindfulness, healthy communication, and self-care practices, the program helps young people build a strong foundation for mental wellness.

Breaking the Stigma

A recurring theme in the podcast is the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health. Despite progress in recent years, stereotypes and misconceptions about mental illness persist, often preventing youth from seeking help. Majors points out that many young people lack basic knowledge about mental health and are influenced by harmful stereotypes.

However, the conversation takes a hopeful turn as Guy, Majors, and Smith discuss how today’s youth are leading the charge in breaking the stigma. By openly discussing mental health issues and sharing their experiences, young people are creating a culture of acceptance and understanding. This shift is crucial in ensuring that mental health is seen as an integral part of overall well-being, rather than a taboo topic.

Peer Support and Community Building

One of the most powerful aspects of youth mental health is the role of peer support. Young people often turn to their friends during difficult times, seeking comfort and understanding. This peer-to-peer connection can be incredibly beneficial, but it also means that youths need to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to support each other effectively.

Smith underscores the importance of peer education programs like YAP, which train youth to become mental health ambassadors in their communities. These ambassadors learn how to recognize signs of mental distress, provide initial support, and guide their peers towards professional help when needed. By fostering a network of informed and compassionate young people, programs like YAP help create a supportive community where everyone feels seen and heard.

The Power of Open Conversation

The podcast concludes with a discussion on the power of open conversation. Talking about mental health openly and honestly can be transformative, teaching youth that they are not alone in their struggles. By normalizing these conversations, we can create an environment where seeking help is encouraged and accepted.

Guy, Majors, and Smith agree that the future of mental health lies in the hands of today’s youth. As they continue to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and support one another, they are driving a cultural shift towards greater acceptance and understanding.

In summary, the Your Best Day Yet podcast episode with Eric Guy, Elisia Majors, and Susan Smith sheds light on the critical issues surrounding youth mental health. By addressing the impact of social media, the need for wellness and coping skills, the importance of breaking stigma, and the power of peer support, the episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps towards building a more inclusive and supportive mental health system for all.

Make this your BEST DAY YET! Learn more at resources.CenterForVictory.com.