Mental health is as vital as physical health, yet there remains a significant barrier preventing many from seeking help: stigma. For youth, this stigma can lead to untreated mental health conditions hindering their growth, education and overall well-being.
The Local Challenge: Youth Mental Health in Springfield
Our city isn’t immune to these challenges. Recent data from Greene County shows that the number of youth facing mental health challenges continues to rise. Local surveys (including in the Springfield-Greene County Health Department’s website, Burrell’s 2024 Youth Mental Health Report and the 2021 Springfield Community Focus Report) reveal increased anxiety and depression among adolescents, and the demand for mental health services is at an all-time high. While our provider to citizen ratio is higher than the state average, barriers like cost, transportation, or fear of judgment still exist.
Our Response: Trauma-Informed Care at Boys & Girls Club
At Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield, we are working to be a part of the solution. As a trauma-informed organization, we understand how adverse childhood experiences can impact mental and emotional development. Through partnerships with organizations like Burrell Behavioral Health, we can offer mental health services to Club members at no cost, ensuring that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of receiving care.
By creating a safe and supportive environment, we can help youth feel comfortable discussing their mental health without fear of judgment. We are equipping our staff to recognize trauma, provide emotional support, and connect youth to professional mental health resources.
LEARN MORE: E467 — How to Pick the Right Therapist for You | With Dr. Thomas Janousek
How to Talk to Teens About Mental Health
One of the most important things we can do as a community is to encourage open dialogue about mental health, especially with teens. Together, we can all be a part of the solution by:
1. Being Honest and Open: Create an environment where teens feel safe discussing their feelings. Acknowledge that mental health struggles are common and nothing to be ashamed of.
2. Listen Without Judgment: Allow teens to express themselves without interrupting or dismissing their concerns. Sometimes, they just need someone to listen.
3. Educate Them: Help teens understand the signs of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The more they know, the better they can recognize when they need help.
4. Normalize Seeking Help: Let them know that asking for help is a sign of strength. Share examples of how mental health professionals can provide support.
5. Be Supportive, Not Overbearing: While it’s important to show concern, it’s equally important to respect their autonomy. Offer help, but allow them to make decisions about their mental health journey.
Moving Forward
Reducing stigma and becoming a trauma-informed society is essential for the future of our youth. As parents, mentors, and educators, we can take active steps to make mental health care accessible, promote open conversations, and ensure that every young person feels valued and supported.
Together, we can create a community where mental health is treated with the care and intentionality it deserves. Find out more about the Boys & Girls Clubs of Springfield at their website. Find Springfield community mental health resources on the city’s website.
