The Mental Health Crisis We Are Not Talking About

As we all know, adolescence is a rocky time, but recent studies have shown that teenage girls are experiencing an alarming increase in reported depression and sadness. The reasons behind this trend are complex but we agree that it is a cause for concern.  According to the CDC, “Teen girls are experiencing record high levels of violence, sadness, and suicide risk…Nearly 3 in 5 (57%) U.S. teen girls felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021—double that of boys, representing a nearly 60% increase and the highest level reported over the past decade (U.S. Teen Girls Experiencing Increased Sadness and Violence)."

 So what is happening to our kids?

I believe that we are lonelier than we have ever been. There are so many theories as to why this is, but my personal opinion is that this generation is growing up in a world in which they have ALWAYS had a phone. They have learned how to interact with each other virtually and virtually only. This is why my dream for The Collective was (and is) to provide a solid relationship foundation for each and every one of our clients. A confidence and social awareness that they can fall back on and utilize throughout their lives. Community and connection are the most important ways I know of for sustained happiness and wellness. So many of our kids do not know what a truly healthy relationship (with their mom, friends, partner etc) actually looks like. Our 16 session group curriculum teaches them all about healthy, nurturing and appropriate relationships with all kinds of people in their lives, and perhaps most importantly, teaches them how to be a healthy, nurturing and appropriate part of something bigger than they are - a family, friend group, work environment, society, etc.

Another one of the ways The Collective strives to help our community, particularly that of our teen girls, is via our scholarship fund. 

 Our scholarship foundation is committed to making mental health care accessible to all, regardless of financial means. By providing scholarships to those who need it, we are breaking down barriers and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care and support they deserve. If you are interested in supporting this mission, click here!

Don’t forget - humans are designed for tribe and relationship, and it’s the most natural thing in the world to want that. Let us show you how to get it and keep it!