This December, Mentor Foundation USA will launch its first Young Voices in December campaign – an initiative to help bring awareness and support to mental health issues and substance use disorders among young people during the impact of COVID-19.
The isolation of communities directly impacts our society, and even more so, our youth. Since the COVID-19-related social distancing began, the frequency of adolescent alcohol and cannabis use has increased. A recent study conducted by CDC found that 75% of young people aged 18-24 reported at least one adverse mental or behavioral health symptom, while 25% of the same population reported serious suicidal thoughts.
COVID-19 and opioid addiction are considered the two great epidemics of our generation, and they are intersecting in increasingly deadly ways. The need for adolescent mental health support and substance use prevention has never been greater, and we remain dedicated to continuing our vital work to empower young people to live healthy and productive lives, free of substance use.
Michaela Pratt, President & CEO, Mentor Foundation USA
Young Voices in December will launch on December 1st during #GivingTuesday and aim to showcase youth and partner stories throughout the month of December, Â emphasizing the importance of supporting positive youth development and mental health during these unprecedented times of fear and uncertainty.
The campaign will conclude with a mid-month virtual Holiday Concert, and few select partners will be invited to an intimate VIP reception hosted by H.E. Sheikh Meshal bin Hamad Al Thani, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the United States of America, at his personal residence.