Dear Ms. Evans,

I just heard that January is Mental Wellness month. I really struggle with my mental well being, and I am not sure who to go to to talk about it, because I just want to keep it to myself. I don’t like sharing my feelings with others, so I feel so alone. I know this is affecting my mental health. What should I do?

Dear Student,

It’s very normal to struggle with your mental health, especially as a teenager! Feelings of isolation and loneliness are common when you are dealing with a mental health issue, and you are not alone. Sometimes, it’s difficult to talk to the people in our lives about mental health because we don’t know how they will react. Your health and wellness are very important issues and opening up like “here are all my scary thoughts and feelings that I don’t know what to do with” does not always come naturally.

There are a few ways to get some help, even if you aren’t ready to open up to someone in your life. First, the Teen Line is an organization that provides support, resources, and hope to young people through a hotline of professionally trained teen counselors, and outreach programs that de-stigmatize and normalize mental health. You can call, text, or email – which is great if you are struggling to have an in-person conversation about your mental health. Call 800-852-8336 or text TEEN to 839863. Another resource for help is the Boys Town National Hotline. The Hotline is staffed 24/7, year-round by trained counselors who can give advice and guidance on a wide range of issues. Call 800-448-3000 or text VOICE to 20121.

If you are ready to talk to someone in-person, I really encourage you to reach out to your school counselor or school social worker (which here at PHS is me!) because we can connect you with more awesome resources and be a non-judgmental ear to listen when you need to talk.

Whatever route you take, get some help! You are worth it, even when you don’t feel like you are.