The City of San Antonio is taking a forward leap in addressing teen mental health issues by initiating its Third Annual Teen Mental Health Survey. Announced by the San Antonio Youth Commission (SAYC) and the Metropolitan Health District's Project Worth Teen Ambassadors, the survey invites the young residents, ages 12 to 19, to share their experiences anonymously. The survey, which is crucial in shedding light on the struggles faced by teens, will remain open until April 30.
Amrutha Konduru, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Subcommittee Chair of SAYC, noted the significance of the survey, stating, "I firmly believe that the Teen Mental Health Survey is essential to understand the complexities of San Antonio youth facing social and emotional challenges." These insights have triggered a positive action, where the SAYC has joined forces with Project Worth Teen Ambassadors and the Center of Health Care Services to provide Teen Mental Health First Aid training, an initiative to empower youth in supporting their peers grappling mental health and substance abuse issues.
Depression among youth is a growing concern, with a study by Mental Health America indicating that more than 1 in 10 U.S. youths are experiencing depression sufficiently severe to disrupt their daily functioning. The study also revealed concerning statistics where 1 in 6 youth aged between 12 and 17 suffered from at least one major depressive episode in the past year, and 1 in 9 reported experiencing severe major depression.
Project Worth Teen Ambassador, Luke Mendez, underscored the importance of the survey in facilitating youth expression, "Mental health is so important to be able to cope and deal with life’s obstacles." Adding the benefit of the survey, he said, "The Teen Mental Health Survey allows youth to express what difficulties they may be struggling with, this is important so others can be aware and offer resources." The findings of the survey will help tailor resources and initiatives to effectively address the mental health issues that San Antonio's youth are struggling with.
San Antonio teens looking to participate in this venture for communal mental wellbeing can access the Teen Mental Health Survey through the community portal SASpeakUp.com.
