Supporting Teen-Led Awareness Campaigns That Empower, Educate, and Eliminate Stigma
Raise Awareness
Recognize the signs of adolescent depression. It’s only a problem if it’s ignored.
Break Stigma
Through campaigns, fundraisers and awareness initiatives, teens eliminate the shame and blame of depression, making it easier to get help.
Spread Empathy
No one should be outcast because of adolescent depression.
What Teen-Led Campaigns Can Do
Dialogue is the best way to reduce the stigma of adolescent depression. Student-powered awareness is the most effective way to encourage communication.
When students talk, other students listen. When teens highlight the importance of learning about adolescent depression, it shows their peers that there is nothing to be ashamed of. It demonstrates that those suffering from depression don’t have to hide. They can talk, they can get help, and they can live.
That’s what awareness does. When it comes from other teens, it is our most powerful tool. We’re proud to help students start a Teen Club in their school, run awareness campaigns, and use their voice to Get Depression Out of Dark.
Break the silence. Start a Depression Awareness Campaign.
We’re ready to help educators, faculty, staff, and especially teens start awareness campaigns that help them feel comfortable with talking about mental health.
We saw a need for education on the topic of mental health and we thought that [promoting] a positive learning environment was necessary. One of the club leaders had heard of an awesome club from her brother who had a great experience being part of Erika’s Lighthouse at another school. The club has grown to include many members, all of whom are very excited to help the cause. This is the first time Whitney Young has had a club like Erika’s Lighthouse and we are excited to keep benefiting from the amazing message – we need to Get Depression Out of the Dark.
What do Depression Awareness Campaigns Look Like?
Depression Awareness Campaigns look like whatever the teens feel is the best way to raise their voices. Some campaigns include:
- Poster campaigns
- Holiday card activities
- Finals week goodie bags
- Skate-a-thons
- Mental health care packages
The only limit to your school’s awareness campaign is imagination. And the outcome is always hope.
Starting An Erika’s Lighthouse Teen Club
Give students a chance to make a difference in their building and to provide good mental health messages throughout the year. Erika’s Lighthouse will:
- Provide grants for clubs
- Provide t-shirts in the first year
- Provide support during the school year
- Generate ideas for activities, events, and fundraisers
Learn more about how to start a Teen Club.
Break the silence. Start a Depression Awareness Campaign.
We’re ready to help educators, faculty, staff, and especially teens start awareness campaigns that help them feel comfortable with talking about mental health.
