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Berks commissioners sign proclamation advocating for mental health awareness

Reading Eagle - 6/1/2023

Jun. 1—Two local students are shining a light on teen mental health.

Wyomissing High School juniors Vanesa Aguay and Tyler Nolt visited with the Berks County commissioners last week. They brought with them a proclamation they had written recognizing May 23 as Teen Mental Health Awareness Day in Berks County.

"Most children in America do not receive mental health treatment even though they may need it," Aguay told the commissioners. "Unfortunately, children in Pennsylvania and Berks County are no exception to that fact. And that's why it's essential and imperative for us to prioritize mental health treatment for all young people who are in need."

Nolt cited a recent survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that found more than 40% of high school students said that feelings of sadness or hopelessness prevented them from engaging in their regular activities for at least two weeks of the year.

He said he was one of them.

"What kept me from speaking up about the problems I was having was the stigma associated with mental health issues," he told the commissioners. "But I got the help that I needed and now I'm an advocate for others going through the same thing."

Aguay, like Nolt, said that many young people may feel embarrassed that they are experiencing mental health issues and suffer in silence in order to keep those feelings hidden. That's why shining a light on the resources available to them without judgment is so important.

"We have really impactful resources in Berks County that can help, but we need to make them known to the students who need them," she said.

Aguay and Nolt asked that the commissioners sign the proclamation, explaining the mission of the decree is to bring attention to the need for mental health education in schools and push for state legislation that would allow students to take days off from school to focus on mental wellness.

"Mental health is just as important as our physical health and should be prioritized," Aguay said.

The commissioners agreed to the students' request, signing the proclamation.

The proclamation is part of a statewide effort by the Pennsylvania Youth Advocacy Network to encourage young people to call for change and promote teen mental health with advocacy opportunities.

If you need help

Berks County Crisis Intervention: call 610-236-0530 or text 484-816-7865.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: call 800-273-TALK.

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