When young people had the chance to relay a message to state legislators recently, they discussed mental-health issues that affect them and some of their peers.
Participants are members of YLinK, which stands for Youth Leaders in Kansas; they shared their concerns during YLinK Advocacy Day March 13 in Topeka.
The theme this year focused on mental- and behavioral-health issues.
“They feel like there aren’t adults that they can feel comfortable talking to about bullying,” said Tyler Morton, prevention advocate at Juvenile Services, one of two chaperones. “A lot of young people remain silent because of this and other issues they face.
“In addition, they pointed out that they are overwhelmed by their busy schedules.”
However, Morton commented, the group did have a “great visit” with Rep. Sherri Brantley from the 112th District.
“Rep. Brantley was very welcoming and gave graciously of her time,” Morton said. “It was cool because she has some personal connections to the youth that attended the event – whether it was just because she lives in this area or through her work as a teacher.
“These connections really helped our group feel more at ease. Rep. Brantley listened to what they were saying and talked about forming a partnership with her that goes beyond the visit in Topeka. Our youth did a great job presenting their ideas and giving feedback on mental health.”
Other topics during the day included the 988 national suicide-prevention hotline and information about how the House of Representatives works.
“Our kids were actually recognized during a House session, which was a great experience for all of us,” Morton recalled. “We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with state partners and support the work they do.”
Ten students, ranging from sixth grade to high school senior, attended; Cindy Patterson, a local Youth Crew parent, was the other chaperone.
Youth comments
Brogyn Garrett, Ellinwood Middle School seventh grader, said he wanted to attend the special event because “mental health has been a big thing for me. I have had my own experiences and understand issues other people face.
“It was a highlight that our state government took the time to organize this event, which shows they care about our mental health and show that they don’t take these issues lightly,” he continued. “They are willing to educate youth on how to deal with issues in a safe way.”
Amber Ochs, seventh grader at Great Bend Middle School, echoed some of Garrett’s comments.
“I attended because I wanted to share my experiences with mental health and hear about others’ experiences,” Ochs commented. “The highlight for me was talking with Rep. Sherri Brantley, who knows my family. It was great to hear her talk about those relationships and the compliments she shared about my grandfather.”
Ochs also noted she leaned about the 988 hotline, which is “a great resource if you need it. One of our speakers shared about her experience in using 988.”
Other participants were Joziah Hipp, Janey Weber, Annalynn Fairchild, Damian Palma, Tegan Patterson, Matilda Philbern, Mya Brewer and Jamesray Short.
YLinK helps students hone their leadership skills and provides a platform to share ideas about how to improve the world they live in, while building their confidence to take action.
20th Judicial District Juvenile Services empowers youth in Barton, Rice, Ellsworth, Stafford and Russell counties to achieve positive outcomes by offering Juvenile Intake & Assessment, Immediate Intervention, Intensive Supervised Probation, Case Management, Journey to Change, Life Skills, All Stars and Youth Crew. Parents and guardians also are offered The Parent Project. Visit 1800 12th in Great Bend or call 620-793-1930.
