This Mental Health Awareness Month, our hearts are with every young person facing challenges we may not always see—and with the families, mentors, and friends walking alongside them.

It is with deep sadness that we share the heartbreaking loss of one of our mentees to suicide. This tragedy has touched our entire Big Brothers Big Sisters community and reminds us of the critical importance of conversations around mental health wellness and ensuring no one feels alone in their struggles.

At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we believe in connection, mentorship, and showing up – especially when the challenges run deep. Our mentors aren’t therapists, but they are lifelines. Our mission has always been to build strong, lasting relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. But we know that mentorship alone isn’t always enough.

Across the country and here in the Granite State, youth mental health is in a state of emergency. Rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among young people have surged over the past decade, further exacerbated by the isolation and disruption of the pandemic. In response, schools, communities, and families have scrambled to provide support, but one of the most effective tools we have, mentorship.

Mentored youth are more likely to stay in school, avoid substance abuse, and have better mental health outcomes. Removing that support increases the burden on already overwhelmed mental health systems, schools, and emergency services.

If we are serious about addressing the mental health crisis among young people, we must fight to protect and expand programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters. We invite all mentors, families, and supporters to take a moment this month to learn more about mental health, share resources, and foster open conversations with the youth in your lives.

Mental health matters. You are not alone. If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 anytime
  Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support

What you can do this month:

Check in with the youth in your life. Ask how they’re doing—and listen.

• Share resources with your network. One conversation could save a life.
• Participate in local mental health events or training.

It is equally important to ensure that mentorship, particularly suicide prevention-focused mentorship, remains a priority. It’s the combination of meeting basic needs and offering emotional support that truly fosters a thriving, resilient community.

Happy Mother’s Day to all those who are filling a mom role,

Stacy