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Youths cautiously sharing mental health histories

Must balance openness, risk of stigma

More than any previous group of American youth, Chandra Watts and her peers grew up hearing about ADHD, bipolar, and Prozac.

As a generation, they were more psychologically attuned — and diagnosed — than any other. Mental disorders, they were told, should be viewed no differently from physical illnesses, and cause no shame.

Comments

Great article. Thank you for raising awareness on this issue. Kids with MI not only struggle with the condition but the social stigma can increase their feeling of isolation. Having an MI can be a very lonely experience b/c people don't understand. I think greater awareness to help create more acceptance is always needed. As a parent, I am greatful the globe is addressing this subject.

Great article, the stigma towards kids with mental illness is still so pervasive in the school systems, I personally believe that there is a huge gap in how teachers are trained and their understanding of mental illness. Any change needs to start there......