On February 21, 2024, the Mvskoke Nation Youth Council joined forces with Kickapoo Youth from Preserving the Future and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Behavioral Health team to host a powerful and heartfelt conversation centered around youth mental health. The virtual event created a safe and supportive space for Native youth to share their experiences, struggles, and strengths when it comes to mental wellness.
The discussion focused on the youth perspective of mental health, touching on key themes such as healthy coping mechanisms, how to ask for help, and the everyday challenges young people face. Participants bravely shared personal stories, offering insight and encouragement to peers who may be walking a similar path.
One of the strongest messages from the evening was that although Native youth may come from different tribes, backgrounds, and experiences, we all share a common thread—resilience. The conversation highlighted that being Native doesn’t mean we all look or think the same, but we can all relate to what it means to be strong, to overcome, and to rise above.
We are incredibly grateful to every youth who participated and opened their hearts for the benefit of others. Your courage makes a difference and helps to pave the way for a healthier, more connected generation.
Our youth are resilient.
Our voices matter.
Mental wellness starts with conversations like these.