The Brief
- Students in Illinois create peer-led mental health resources to support each other.
- Programs include mood-tracking apps and peer support groups within local schools.
- Districts report positive impacts, with plans to expand access and support.
CHICAGO – In a Fox 32 special report, we look at kids helping kids navigate their mental health. This peer-to-peer support is becoming widespread from Naperville to Crystal Lake.
Sometimes we just need someone to talk to—not a grownup or a professional but someone who looks like us, is the same age, and is going through the same things.
“Oftentimes it’s hard for a 13-year-old to relate to a 45-year-old. You know, nothing against someone’s therapist, but it’s kind of hard. The age gap is really big. People are experiencing different problems today,” said Leya Nair.…