Students lead the charge in destigmatizing mental health with annual Walk for Hope event

To kickstart Hope Week, Kettering Fairmont High School is set to host its fifth annual Walk for Hope on April 13.

‍

The annual event is intended to bring the topics of suicide prevention and mental wellness to the center of conversation as well as to raise funds to support the initiative of the school’s Hope Squad.

‍

Students of the Hope Squad organized the Walk for Hope events, which are planned to aid in the destigmatization of mental health and to build community with community partners, mental health agencies and non-profits.

‍

According to Hope Squad instructor Jessica Stickel, suicide is the leading cause of death for young people between the ages of 10 and 17.

‍

A study produced in 2019 by the Mental Health & Addiction Advocacy Coalition said that over 15% of the participating high school students had “seriously considered” suicide in the last year.

‍

The study also emphasized that 7% of students ended their lives that year.

‍

The student and faculty organizers of the Walk for Hope believe that these occurrences must be addressed, emphasizing the purpose of the event.

‍

Dr. Carrie Hennessy, one who plays an important role in connecting students, faculty and staff to resources, expressed understanding for young people going through mental health challenges.

‍

“There are many challenges for our young adults, whether it’s academic pressures, family life, sports, social media, etc,” she said. “If you add some anxiety or some depression to the mix, it can be a challenging time. We are really proud of the work our students are doing to recognize mental health challenges, learn healthy coping skills, and share them with peers.”

‍

The resource fair will be held in the Trent Area starting at noon, with opening remarks at 12:45 p.m. The Walk for Hope is scheduled to take place immediately after he opening remarks until 2 p.m. on the Fairmont Track.

‍

Registration is free and open to all. Participants can register online or check in at James S. Trent Arena from noon to 12:45 p.m.

‍

Participants are able to make donations at the event or online. Donations will go toward providing resources about mental health and suicide prevention and supporting the outreach efforts of the Hope Squads in Kettering.

‍

Originally published at https://dayton247now.com/news/local/students-lead-the-charge-in-destigmatizing-mental-health-with-annual-walk-for-hope-event

‍