WALDOBORO — Girl Scout Ambassador Kayleigh Young has organized a Teen Mental Health Convention for local high schoolers looking to gain insight on mental wellness and strategies to navigate prevalent seasonal disorders such as depression and anxiety. This event is free and open to high schoolers of all grade levels in the surrounding Lincoln and Knox County areas.

The convention takes place Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., at Medomak High School, Waldoboro, ME 04572. 

Young began her Girl Scout journey over ten years ago, joining as a Daisy. The now Gold Award Girl Scout Candidate has served as a Maine Delegate to the National Convention for GSUSA twice, and recently became co-leader of a local Daisy troop. Kayleigh is also the chair and founder of Maine’s Teen Mental Health Coalition, along with other individuals and organizations including Educate Maine and Out Maine. 

The convention will kick off with keynote speaker and Nationally Certified Counselor Courtney Evans, followed by a series of guided interactive sessions — each focused on a unique topic surrounding mental health. Session topics include breaking down stigmas, self-care, mentorship, and community problem-solving. Sessions will be led by various community organizations such as The Landing Place, the Yellow Tulip Project, Maine TransNet, Healthy Lincoln County, and more.  

Please note, lunch is not included at this event. While a designated area and time slot will be provided for participants to eat, attendees are encouraged to bring their own lunches, snacks, and refreshments. 

“With an extreme increase in negative statistics in recent years, the teen mental health crisis has become a national epidemic,” said Girl Scouts of Maine, in a news release.

According to a survey conducted by the National Institute on Mental Illness (NAMI) in 2023, 44% of high school students reported feeling signs of depression within the last year. For Kayleigh Young, the stats are more than just figures on a screen, they’re warning signs that require fast, sustainable solutions. 

“What I hope attendees leave the event with is the sense that they are not alone. With tools in their pocket or phone, and places to reach out when they need it,” says Young. 

Initially inspired by her own personal struggles with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Young wanted to build an accessible space where teenagers like herself could seek out resources and support regardless of their emotional battles. With help from friends, family, Girl Scout volunteers, and a variety of sponsors, Young’s dream is finally on its way to becoming reality through the highly anticipated convention. 

Who will attend: Local high schoolers in grades 9 through 12 are invited to attend the Teen Mental Health Convention. Registration is required before the event.  

To find more information and register visit https://tinyurl.com/teenmental.

Media Contact:
Laura Genese 
203-253-5031  
lgenese@gsmaine.org