Joe Burrow Foundation Leads the Charge for Teen Wellness
Teen mental health has always been a topic of importance, but now, more than ever, it demands urgent attention. Adolescents today are navigating a labyrinth of stressors: academic pressures, social media, political turbulence, and the lingering echoes of a global pandemic. The numbers don’t lie. According to the CDC, 40% of high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2023. Among LGBTQ+ youth, the situation is even more dire, with 18% reporting attempted suicide—a staggering statistic that reveals the depth of this crisis.
Yet, in the face of these challenges, efforts like World Teen Mental Wellness Day shine as lights of hope. This global initiative, observed annually, is dedicated to raising awareness about the mental health challenges teens face while promoting strategies to foster resilience and well-being. The day is not just about acknowledgment; it’s about action—a call to empower teens, schools, and communities to break the stigma and create spaces where mental health is prioritized.
One of the champions of this initiative is the Joe Burrow Foundation. Known for its commitment to improving the lives of children and families, the foundation has taken a leading role in promoting World Teen Mental Wellness Day in regions like Greater Baton Rouge, Greater Cincinnati, and Southeast Ohio. By providing schools with grants of up to $1,000, the foundation empowers students in grades 7-12 to design and implement activities that spark conversations and foster mental wellness within their schools.
The beauty of these grants lies in their flexibility. Schools can tailor their programs to meet the unique needs of their students. Whether it’s organizing yoga sessions, setting up resource tables with mental health information, or leading school-wide breathing exercises, the possibilities are endless. These activities aim to not only reduce the stigma surrounding mental health but also encourage teens to take ownership of their well-being.
This initiative is bolstered by strategic partnerships. In Greater Cincinnati, organizations like bi3, Hopeful Empowered Youth (HEY!), and Interact for Health amplify the program’s reach and impact. Meanwhile, in Greater Baton Rouge, the Rain Will Bring Flowers Foundation joins the effort, ensuring that resources and expertise are maximized.
The timing of this effort couldn’t be more critical. Despite a slight decrease in the percentage of students experiencing persistent sadness from 42% in 2021 to 40% in 2023, the overall state of teen mental health remains precarious. Social media—a double-edged sword—continues to be a significant factor, contributing to increased anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Academic and social pressures further compound the issue, pushing many teens to their limits. Add to this the unique struggles of marginalized groups, and the need for initiatives like World Teen Mental Wellness Day becomes undeniable.
But what makes this initiative truly special is its focus on teens themselves. By encouraging students to take the lead in planning and executing activities, the program not only addresses mental health challenges but also fosters leadership, creativity, and a sense of community. It’s a reminder that teens are not just passive recipients of help but active agents of change.
The Joe Burrow Foundation’s work exemplifies the power of combining awareness with action. By equipping schools with resources, fostering partnerships, and empowering students, it’s paving the way for a brighter, healthier future. And while World Teen Mental Wellness Day is just one day, its impact—when approached with intention and collaboration—can ripple through communities year-round.
As we approach March 2, 2025, the call to action is clear. Whether you’re a student, educator, parent, or community member, there’s a role for everyone. Promoting mental wellness isn’t just a responsibility—it’s an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of teens who need it most. By supporting initiatives like this and working together, we can create a world where every teenager feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.