|
Dear Fellow Vermonters,
The reality is that we are facing a mental health crisis in America, and Vermont is not immune. This is especially true for our young people, who are living with enormous stress, anxiety, and loneliness as they deal with isolation and school disruptions caused by the global pandemic. There is also little question that long hours on social media have further exacerbated this crisis.
That’s the bad news. The good news is that this generation is more open about their challenges than any generation before them. They are willing to talk about what is wrong and work together to make things better. They are breaking down the stigma of what it means to be a person struggling with their mental health.
That is why I will be holding a town meeting this Thursday with Senator Peter Welch and Representative Becca Balint on the mental health crisis our young people are facing. We hope you will join us to share your stories and hear from experts about how we can work together to address the needs of our young people and their families.
Please click here to RSVP
I have traveled to every corner of our state listening to young people talk about their lives. Every time I do, I am impressed by their openness, ideas, strength, and passion to make their communities a better place. But I also know they cannot – and should not – be asked to face their fears alone. As parents, grandparents, and members of their community, we owe it to them to listen to them, give them hope, and let them know that we will do all that we can to help them along the way.
If you know Vermonters who may be interested in attending this event, please forward this email to them. I look forward to a great conversation.
Sincerely,
 |