Supporting Teen Mental Health: The Vibe Check Program by Blue Shield of California and DoSomething.org

Today’s teenagers are facing a unique set of challenges, from climate change to social media pressures to the ongoing pandemic. These stressors are contributing to a rise in mental health struggles among adolescents, with 70% of teens citing anxiety and depression as significant problems among their peers.

To address this issue, Blue Shield of California’s BlueSky program has partnered with DoSomething.org to create the Vibe Check program. This initiative aims to facilitate open conversations about mental health, guide teens towards reliable resources, and help them navigate challenges they or their friends may be facing.

The centerpiece of the Vibe Check program is the downloadable DoSomething Vibe Check Guide, which provides teens with tools for meaningful conversations about mental health. The guide includes tips for active listening, conversation starters, and a curated list of websites and phone numbers for emergency and non-emergency help.

Nicole Stelter, a licensed marriage and family therapist and director of behavioral health for Blue Shield of California, emphasizes the importance of starting conversations about mental health. Simply asking someone how they’re feeling or offering support can make a big difference.

For teens who hear of a friend considering suicide or self-harm, the Vibe Check Guide recommends immediately telling a trusted adult and encouraging the friend to call 988, the national mental helpline. DeNora Getachew, CEO of DoSomething, stresses that mental health is a crucial part of overall well-being, even if the pain isn’t visible like a physical injury.

The Vibe Check Guide also provides tips on building a support system through communication, reaching out to friends, writing down feelings, and actively listening to others. The ultimate goal is to let young people know they are not alone and that there are resources available to help.

Through the collaboration between the BlueSky program and DoSomething, an important guide has been created to facilitate honest and meaningful conversations about mental health among young people. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between stigma and empowerment, especially among underrepresented youth.

For more information on the Vibe Check program and BlueSky, visit their respective websites for valuable resources and support.