Girls Inc. addresses mental health at a young age, offering a transformative approach to support teens who may feel hesitant due to societal stigma. The organization, based in Sioux City, emphasizes that mental health matters and encourages open conversations, which can change how families perceive mental well-being. Through activities like journaling, peer discussions, and storytelling, participants learn to recognize appropriate emotional responses. Program director Olivia Ray highlights that these lessons extend beyond individual growth to foster stronger relationships and resilience among participants. One participant, Rosie Escobedo, shares her experience of using writing as a tool to express feelings, which she believes empowers others. Girls Inc.’s summer program aims to instill confidence in youth by modeling healthy communication, aligning their values with community support. This initiative reflects a growing recognition that mental health education is not just about knowledge but about cultivating self-awareness and connection across generations.
