Anyone else feel like the news is a bit heavy right now? With so many difficult stories popping up on our feeds, it’s crucial that we find ways to check in on one another.

Let’s be real: vulnerability takes courage, and it feels like society tells us that showing our emotions is a sign of weakness. We think it’s time to flip the switch and become active participants in the creation of safe spaces for our community.

Sometimes when we ask our friends how they are or shoot them a quick “you good?” we miss an opportunity to go deeper. Not sure how to change up your check-ins? Find some ideas in this epic article that can help you find more intentional ways to hold space for others. Hey, you might also score a “best BFF” award in the process ;)

Just like you would never want someone you care about to struggle with their mental health in silence, you don’t have to either. If this time of year is weighing you down, remember there’s courage in speaking up and asking for help. When you break the stigma around having conversations about mental health, you encourage others to do the same–reminding everyone that we’re all in this together.

Let’s Do This!

DoSomething

Our community is making strides to break stigmas by advocating for improved mental health support in schools.

Did you know…only ⅓ of schools offer mental health screenings. This isn’t going to cut it if we want young people to have equitable mental health access! Some of our members are already using their voices to email their representatives to advocate for diverse mental health resources in schools.

Here’s what some of them had to say:

“So many people, especially teens, deal with mental health. It shouldn't be a topic that's hard to discuss or avoided. Nor should someone go through mental challenges on their own,” said DoSomething member Juju F. 16. “I love helping my friends that have gone through and are going through some challenges. I wish I could help everyone, but that's unrealistic. What I can do is spread useful information. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it should be treated as such.” 

“Supporting my peers on their mental health journey is important to me because I know first hand how hard it can be to struggle with a mental illness. Providing the correct resources and help could save someone's life. I want to do anything I can to provide support and information about mental health, so anyone who needs the help can have access to it,” said DoSomething member Lauren M., 17. 

Join us in making waves in mental health advocacy by writing an email to your representatives today! 

Teen Vogue just dropped their 21 under 21 list, and it’s full of young people who are trailblazing in their communities and beyond. 2022 has been a tough year, but these revolutionary Gen Zers provide a huge dose of hope and motivation.

New grant alert: The Archwell Foundation, founded by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, (yeah, that’s Megan and Harry! Have you seen the Netflix doc yet?) is awarding $1MM in grants to women who serve as inspirations to young individuals around the world. You can nominate an inspiring woman to receive a $1,000 grant here. 

The UN biodiversity summit COP15 in Montreal struck a huge deal that could make substantial strides in preserving natural areas worldwide by placing 30% of the planet under protection by 2030. This is a historical agreement and will redirect $500 billion form environmentally harmful subsidies to help fund the deal. Watch BBC’s coverage of the event here.

‘Tis the season! It’s all things merry and bright as our friends at CollegeXpress are giving away a $1500 no-essay scholarship through December 31! And all you have to do is answer one simple question. 

Complete a free profile on CollegeXpress and answer the following to be entered: What’s your favorite holiday tradition?

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