Adolescent Mental Health: Changing the Conversation
Family Centre has launched an island-wide Adolescent Mental Health Anti-Stigma Campaign: ‘Real Talk: It’s OK Not to Be OK.’ This social awareness campaign targets Bermuda’s youth as a direct response to local adolescent mental health research conducted by Dr. Daniel Cavanagh in 2022, which surveyed 76% of Bermuda’s youth population at public and private schools. Key Study Findings:Many adolescents perceive seeking mental health support as a sign of weakness or failure.Youth in Bermuda ages 10-18 experience symptoms of anxiety and depression at rates 5-6% higher than global averages.These findings are deeply concerning, particularly when stigma and fear of judgment prevent young people from seeking help and lead them to suffer in silence. Family Centre is committed to ensuring access to support without barriers, and it is our hope that this campaign encourages youth ages 10 -18 to seek help when needed to ensure their mental, emotional and social wellbeing. View the Adolescent Mental Health Anti-Stigma Campaign video below. We invite you to visit our website and access useful tips on how to help young people seek help when needed and not suffer in silence. Adults can also find tips on how to talk to young people who may be experiencing challenges. Visit https://tfc.bm/realtalk
