Guest Speakers:   

• Melanie Avila 
• Fanta Guindo 
• Yeina Han 

In this MCH Bridges episode, three members of The Adolescent Champion Teen Advisory Council (TAC TAC), Melanie Avila, Fanta Guindo, and Yeina Han, share what adolescent and young adult mental health looks like in their communities, what they have experienced, and what needs to change. This episode talks about important concepts like positive youth development, youth-friendly services, and culturally competent care. It also identifies strategies for addressing barriers to youth seeking and accessing mental health services.

Disclaimer: This episode discusses mental health issues and mentions suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, please dial 988 immediately to call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Additionally, the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides support before, during, and after pregnancy. Call or text 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS (1-833-943-5746). TTY users can use a preferred relay service or dial 711 and then 988 or 1-833-943-5746. Both services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.

Resources: 

• AMCHP’s Adolescent Health Current Initiatives 
• Adolescent Health Initiative 
• The Adolescent Champion Teen Advisory Council (TAC TAC) 
• Emerging Topical Issues in Adolescent and Young Adult Mental Health (AMCHP Learning Module)  
• Innovation in Mental Health Service Delivery (AMCHP Learning Module) 
• Integration of Mental Health into Primary Care for Adolescents and Young Adults (AMCHP Learning Module) 
• MCH Workforce Capacity and Skillsets for Improving Mental Health Care Systems for AYAs (AMCHP Learning Module) 
• Screen to Intervene (AMCHP’s blog dedicated to Adolescent & Young Adult Mental Health)