Many youth struggle with challenging thoughts and feelings that contribute to symptoms of depression and anxiety. Because of stigma about mental illness, however, many do not talk about their challenges and as a result are unable to access support from their Youth Group leaders and from the healing truth of the Word of God. This Lab will explain the impact of stigma on youth and provide leaders with tools to support youth experiencing stress and to combat stigma.
Objectives 1. Define stigma and recognize its impact on youth’s willingness to speak up about their struggles 2. Reflect on the role of the language we use on sustaining stigma 3. Discover the role of youth group leaders in combating stigma and supporting youth who are experiencing stress 4. Discuss multiple tools to combat stigma that can be implemented in youth groups