CHARLESTON, W.Va (WVVA) – West Virginia is observing its first-ever Teen Mental Health Awareness Week, March 2-6, as Governor Patrick Morrisey proclaimed the week in recognition of the growing mental health concerns affecting young people across the state.
The statewide initiative, titled “Why We Talk,” is led by the National Alliance on Mental Illness in West Virginia in partnership with the YMCA Alliance of West Virginia. The campaign highlights the importance of early, open conversations around mental health.
Teen mental health is one of the most urgent issues facing communities across West Virginia.
We are grateful to Governor Morrisey and our partners for recognizing the importance of this moment and for helping elevate awareness for the next generation of leaders.
Teen Mental Health Awareness Week officially launches Monday, March 2, with a 10:30am press conference in the Governor’s Reception Room at the West Virginia State Capitol, where First Lady Denise Morrisey will present the Governor’s Proclamation.
When we invest in the mental health of our teens, we invest in the future of the Mountain State.
Teen Mental Health Awareness Week is an important opportunity to elevate awareness, encourage conversation and ensure young people across West Virginia know they are supported and not alone.
At 11:30am, NAMI will convene a Teen Mental Health reception in the Governor’s Cabinet Room bringing together mental health providers, educators, nonprofits and state leaders to share effective programs and innovative ideas.
Throughout the week, NAMI will offer in-person and virtual trainings for adults who work with teens, including YMCA leadership, coaches and after-school providers. A virtual introductory training is scheduled for Thursday, March 5 from 11:00am to 11:45am.
A comprehensive digital toolkit will be available here, offering resources,
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