Idaho ranks 50th among states with a higher prevalence of youth mental illness and lower rates of access to care. Nearly one out of every four Idaho residents suffer from some form of mental illness. These stark facts make widespread communication and action around youth mental health more important than ever.
Throughout September and early October, St. Luke’s invites community members to a free 30-minute screening of the new documentary from renowned producer Ken Burns, “Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Health,” followed by a facilitated community discussion on youth mental health and the role we can all play in supporting our young residents.
An additional youth mental health community conversation will take place in Canyon County, set for Tuesday, Sept. 27, 6-8 p.m. at Northwest Nazarene University’s Brandt Center. This special conversation, “What I Wish You Knew: Straight Talk on Youth Mental Health,” is sponsored by a variety of community organizations, including St. Luke’s. Watch a new YouTube video here from 2C Kids Succeed on youth mental health. More dates, locations and details are listed below.
The documentary follows the journeys of 20 young Americans throughout the country from all walks of life, who have struggled with thoughts and feelings that have troubled — and, at times — overwhelmed them. The documentary also highlights the hope, resources and effective treatment that many have found while living with a mental health diagnosis.
No RSVP is required to attend this event, but the content and discussion are best suited for those high school-aged and older.
“We know that people who live in rural communities can be more severely impacted by health issues like unmet mental health needs,” said James Gilbert, superintendent for Mountain Home Schools and member of St. Luke’s Elmore Community Board.
“It's so important that we all be a part of these conversations on what we can do to support our youth. The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for many of us, and not shying away from open and honest conversations on mental health is something we can all do to help our youth and ourselves,”
St. Luke's current Community Health Needs Assessment identifies improving mental health as one of the top significant health needs in counties across the region. St. Luke’s is hosting these community youth mental health sessions as part of its commitment to reducing the stigma around seeking mental health treatment and improving access to mental health services.
Mountain Home
Monday, Sept. 26, 6-8 p.m.
Mountain Home Public Library
790 North 10th East, Mountain Home, ID
Nampa
Tuesday, Sept. 27, 6-8 p.m.
NNU Brandt Center
623 S. University Blvd., Nampa, ID
McCall
Wednesday, Sept. 28, 6 p.m.
St. Luke’s Forest Street Center Conference Room
100 Forest Street, McCall, ID
Twin Falls
Tuesday, Oct. 4, 6 p.m.
Herrett Center for Arts & Science
315 Falls Avenue, Twin Falls, ID
Hailey
Wednesday, Oct. 5, 6 p.m.
Minnie Moore Room, Community Campus
1050 Fox Acres Road, Hailey, ID
You also can click here to see episodes of the Hiding in Plain Sight documentary.
Christine Myron is the Treasure Valley public relations manager for St. Luke’s Health System.