Give Voice Campaign: Erika's Lighthouse

Written by: Alayna Futch | Division 15 LTG

Struggling with mental health as a teenager is no easy feat. Recently, federal reports show that there were about 700,000 adolescent suicide attempts in a single year. Roughly 6,400 of those kids die during their attempts. Erika's Lighthouse, a non-profit, teaches school-aged adolescents about depression and suicide prevention. Their goal is to normalize mental health conversations, so no one feels alone. 

Some people may go to friends, some to family, but some may not have anyone they feel they can trust. Friends can often sense when something's wrong. Recognizing depression is crucial. Warning signs include ongoing sadness, irritability, hopelessness, and pushing people away. Depression can also manifest in changes to sleep, diet, grades, or feelings of worthlessness and self-harm. 

For someone who's struggled with mental health, asking for help is terrifying. I've dealt with self-harm, suicidal tendencies, and an attempt. Warning signs vary from person to person. For me, it was shutting people out, not eating, and being intrusive. Sometimes self-harm may seem like the only escape, but to get better, you must see the signs yourself. 

To address signs, Erika's Lighthouse teaches a three-step approach for supporting your friends. Students learn to notice when a friend is acting different.  Next, they show care by expressing empathy and letting their friend know they are supported. Finally, they help by encouraging that friend to connect with someone who can step in.

Teens should never feel alone in a mental crisis. A mental crisis is very serious. School programs help students find trusted adults – friends, teachers, parents, or counselors – who can provide professional care. 

Erika's Lighthouse is highlighted during Suicide Prevention Week, which includes their Give Voice Campaign. This annual initiative, held in September, unites schools, students, and communities to shine a light on mental health resources. Erika's Lighthouse supports awareness campaigns, student leadership, and free educational tools to empower youth to speak up and break stigma.

If you or someone needs help, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States and Canada. It's free, confidential, and available 24/7.