Youth Mental Health Corps Launches Nationwide Program to Support Youth Well-being
New Initiative Deploys Young Adult “Navigators” to Schools and Community Organizations
Amidst an alarming rise in youth mental health challenges, a new nationwide program aims to provide critical support directly in schools and communities. The Youth Mental Health Corps is deploying teams of specially-trained young adults to serve as “mental health navigators” for youth across the country.
The U.S. Surgeon General’s 2021 advisory highlighted startling statistics, including a 40% rise in depression and anxiety among youth over the past decade. Tragically, suicide is now the second leading cause of death for those aged 10-14. [1]
“Our young people are facing immense pressures, and too many lack access to the mental health resources they desperately need,” said Dr. Jane Smith, executive director of the Youth Mental Health Corps. “By meeting students where they are – in schools, after-school programs, and community centers – our navigators can provide trusted peer support and connect youth to professional services.”
The navigators are young adults aged 18-25 who have completed extensive training on mental health topics, healthy coping strategies, social media wellness, and more. They will work alongside teachers, counselors, and community partners to:
– Lead group discussions and activities focused on mental wellness
– Offer peer mentoring and a supportive listening ear
– Help youth access counseling, therapy, and other professional care
– Advocate for improved mental health policies and resources
The program launches this fall in 10 states, with plans to scale nationwide to 500+ navigators serving 100+ organizations by 2025. Founding partners include national nonprofits, school districts, healthcare providers, corporations, and government agencies united around prioritizing youth mental health. [1]
“The Youth Mental Health Corps represents a holistic, community-driven solution to the youth mental health crisis,” said Smith. “By supporting this initiative, partners can directly invest in the well-being of our nation’s young people and the future leaders who will guide them.” [1]
For more information or to get involved as a partner, visit www.youthmentalhealthcorps.org.
About the Youth Mental Health Corps
The Youth Mental Health Corps is a unified, multi-sector partnership designed to address the youth mental health crisis and workforce shortage in the United States. Its mission is to foster the well-being of youth by deploying young adult navigators to provide peer support, lead wellness activities, and connect students to professional mental health resources in schools and communities nationwide.
