Students
Middle & High School
Whether we want to admit it or not, our students are hurting.
They are faced with the same challenges that we endured: body image issues, family problems, substance abuse, peer pressure, pressure of materialism, bullying, negative stereo-typing. What makes their challenges more unique is that they have 24-hour access to the world around them, right at their fingertips; welcome The Smartphone.
Bullying is no longer name calling in the hallway, written on the bathroom wall. Now it happens at school, in group text messages, and various social media outlets. Throw in a global pandemic, it has forced our youth into isolation and has become an impossible crisis.
According to a press release published by the American Medical Association (AMA) on June, 16, 2021, “ According to a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study, there was a 31% increase in the proportion of mental health-related emergency department visits for youth aged 12-17 years during 2020 as compared to 2019.” (AMA adopts policy to address increases in youth suicide and save lives, Chicago).
How can Speaking Into Darkness help?
By opening a dialogue in an effort to meet them where they are, right now, hurting and broken; in need of an adult who has been where they are & is willing to talk about:
On-going Bullying
Parental Conflict/Absent Parent
Family Abuse
Eating Disorders
Dating Abuse
Sexual Violence
Substance Abuse
Untreated Mental Illness
Self-harm
It doesn't stop there. Putting them in contact with trusted individuals, organizations, counselors; helping them recognize a trusted adult to talk to.
Assisting in their journey towards healing.