Teen Mental Health Crisis: The Youth Mental Health Corps Taking Action
In recent years, the struggle with mental health among young people has intensified, with a significant number experiencing feelings of hopelessness and contemplating suicide. Various factors like the pandemic, climate change, political polarization, and the prevalence of social media have contributed to the deteriorating mental well-being of today’s teenagers.
Unfortunately, there is a shortage of mental health professionals across the country, leaving many adolescents without the support they desperately need. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services estimates that over a third of the population lives in areas lacking adequate mental health services, requiring an additional 6,000 practitioners to meet the growing demand.
To address this pressing issue, a coalition of government, philanthropic, and private entities have come together to launch the Youth Mental Health Corps. This national initiative, led by AmeriCorps, America Forward, Pinterest, and the Schultz Family Foundation, aims to empower young adults aged 18-24 to provide support and resources to their peers while also building skills for careers in behavioral health.
The inaugural cohort of the Youth Mental Health Corps will consist of 500 recent high school and college graduates and will initially operate in four states – Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, and Texas. By fall 2025, the program is expected to expand to seven additional states. Members of the Corps will be placed in schools, community organizations, and health clinics to connect their peers with existing mental health services and resources.
While Corps members will not act as therapists, they will serve as guides and facilitators, helping their peers access the support they need. The program also provides members with career guidance, enabling them to pursue further education and training in the behavioral health field.
One such member, Nelly Grosso, working with Colorado Youth for a Change, is already making a positive impact by connecting high school students with essential resources. Grosso’s personal experience as a first-generation American student navigating the education system allows her to empathize with the challenges her students face and provide them with valuable support.
The Youth Mental Health Corps offers its members a transformative experience, equipping them with the skills, training, and resources to pursue careers in mental health. This initiative not only addresses the urgent mental health needs of young people but also creates pathways for the next generation of mental health professionals to succeed.
Joining the Corps is an opportunity to make a difference and support the mental well-being of our youth. Together, we can empower young people to become advocates for mental health and build a brighter future for all.
