This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Through her own story, social activist Megan Shinnick points out the misconceptions and actual importance of depression, as well as the societal flaws responsible for the increase in the illness among teens. Perhaps the increased pressures put on students create the situation, while the majority of schools don't have the necessary resources to aid students who suffer depression or anxiety. Megan asks each of us to make a difference in the way society both views and deals with depression.
In this courageous talk, Sam Cohen - a high school sophomore - implores us to treat mental illnesses as the illnesses that they are, and to move forward as a culture in an accepting and nurturing way in treating these illnesses. In her talk, she explores what it means to be mentally ill in our society. Sam Cohen is a high school sophomore finishing up her first year here at SRDS. She is an avid photographer, having graduated a four-week photography program at the New York Film Academy and hopes to one day use her photographs to make a difference in the world. More than anything else, she loves dogs. Here today at TEDxYouth@SRDS, Sam will discuss the stigma surrounding mental illness, and what each of us can do to change things for the better.
Sadie Penn is a suicide survivor and is now an advocate of suicide prevention. She feels it's time to talk about the struggle and get it out in the open. Sadie Penn will soon be graduating from Penn Manor High School. She is planning on studying psychology and working with youth. She’s passionate about educating others on the importance of suicide awareness and positive mental health. Sadie enjoys writing, going for hikes, and hearing others’ stories.
In this video created by Mayo Clinic, teens describe common signs that a teen is considering suicide and provide encouragement for communicating directly and immediately for support and safety. It also Includes suggestions for what to say to a teen who may be at risk for suicide and ways to keep them safe. Things can get better. For more information- Call: 1-800-273-TALK, 1-800-273-8255
In the summer of 2009, Severna Park director Dan Gvozden and a group of locals gathered to address the growing rate of teen suicide in their neighborhood. With the help of over 400 volunteers and generous donors the "Empty Seat PSA" was born. Please spread the word and help make it so that there are no more empty seats. The best way to prevent teen suicide is to tell someone about it.