Union County Hosts Youth Mental Health Summit
Central Susquehanna Youth Mental Health Summit Highlights the Importance of Student Voices
LEWISBURG, Pa. — As mental health challenges continue to impact adolescents, with statistical estimates from the National Institutes of Health indicating that approximately 20 percent of teenagers face mental health issues annually, community organizations are stepping forward to address these pressing concerns. The Lewisburg YMCA served as an illustrative venue for the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit’s (CSIU) second annual Youth Mental Health Summit, designed to provide a platform for students to engage in self-care practices and voice their needs regarding mental health.
Throughout the day-long event, students from various schools participated in an array of interactive self-care activities and listened to an assortment of informative speakers. The summit aimed not only to raise awareness around mental health topics but also to facilitate an open dialogue that prioritizes the perspectives of the youth.
Erin Demcher, Grant Coordinator for CSIU, emphasized the event’s significance in bridging the gap between educators and students. “It really connects with our grant, as we are working on integrating mental health support within school districts. While we often hear from teachers and principals, the student perspective is crucial to understanding what they truly need,” Demcher stated.
Planning for the summit began months in advance, demonstrating the dedication of CSIU’s student interns, who played a pivotal role in organizing the event. Their primary focus was to identify the most pressing resources required by students, ensuring that the summit reflected their specific needs.
Reflecting on improvements made from the previous year’s summit, Ruth Kraus, a CSIU Student Mental Health Intern, commented, “This year’s event builds on the success of last year; we were able to expand to a larger space and increase the variety of activities. It has been incredibly fulfilling to witness it all come together.”
With a diverse array of activities available, the summit’s organizers hope students left with a sense of belonging and safety. “I want them to feel included and recognized. Our small region may not have extensive resources, but we are determined to offer adequate mental health support and programs for student success,” added Demcher.
Students expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in meaningful activities and discussions. Mazen Elamin, a junior at Danville Area High School, noted, “Mental health is a relatable issue for everyone today. These activities can plant a seed in their heads, encouraging them to think and reflect.”
Ultimately, the event aimed to empower students, fostering a culture where they feel comfortable expressing their feelings and seeking support. Kraus reinforced this message, encouraging attendees to recognize their voices matter: “Even when they think no one is listening, there’s always someone out there who relates to their story and can provide support.”
Looking ahead, CSIU hopes to make the Youth Mental Health Summit an annual event, strengthening community ties and providing essential resources to help students navigate the complex landscape of mental health. The ongoing support of community organizations like CSIU underscores the critical role that local initiatives play in cultivating a supportive environment for young people grappling with mental health challenges.
