For Teens, From Teens
Welcome to our website For Teens, From Teens! We have created this space to share experiences, recommendations, and much more to help others navigate ups and downs and cope with stress through connecting with others. We hope to make this a fun space and want to help everyone feel that they are not alone!
What’s New Locally
New sculptures in Downtown Park! An 23-foot tall installation by the Parks Northwest Gateway construction project, set to unveil in late April or early May! The installation was designed by architect Marc Fornes, founder of the company THEVERYMANY. Check them out here: https://theverymany.com/
Checkout one of our top local art galleries located in Kirkland: Parklane Gallery. Many new events and exhibitions frequently pop up including art from a variety of artists, including 40 resident artists. https://parklanegallery.org/
Matcha Magic is a woman and minority-owned cafe which opened in late 2022, on Old Main in Bellevue. It is very popular stop for many, with its cute and welcoming atmosphere, along with its plant-forward menu. https://www.itsmatchamagic.com/
From Local Teens
We asked some local teenagers questions about things that they love and would like to share. Here is what they said:
Taanvi Arekapudi, a student at Northshore Middle School:
What movie, song, book, podcast, etc., are you recommending that has positively impacted you and your mental health? Please list it/them below.
- The Talk2BeWell podcast https://work2bewell.org/curriculum/talk2bewell-podcast/
Why are you recommending this and how has it changed you, helped with your mental health, and day-to-day life?
- The Talk2BeWell podcast is a remarkable resource that has helped me understand mental health from other teen perspectives. The Work2BeWell podcast, featuring Dr. Robin Henderson and teen voices from across the country, discusses crucial mental health topics such as social justice, mental health activism, digital learning, and supporting mental health during the holidays.
What are some important messages you want others to look out for?
- The overarching message of these resources is that no one has to face mental health challenges alone. There is support available and coping strategies that can be helpful in difficult situations.
Would you be interested in sharing more about your mental health story with others? If so, please provide a short paragraph or two below that may be shared on the website.
- At the age of nine, I found myself struggling with my mental health after unexpectedly moving to a brand-new country. Trying to adjust to a new culture and make new friends while dealing with the normal pressures of being a teenager, I began experiencing anxiety, isolation, and low self-esteem. Feeling alone and helpless, I sought out coping strategies to help me navigate these overwhelming feelings and began to heal my mental health. Over time, I began to feel better and more empowered. I learned that mental health is something that we all need to take care of, and that there are things we can do to improve our mental well-being. Now, I am dedicated to helping other struggling teenagers by sharing the coping strategies I learned and empowering them to live an uplifted and empowered life. I want others to know that they are not alone and that there is hope for healing and growth. With the right support and tools, anyone can learn to manage their mental health and thrive. I hope to be a source of inspiration and guidance for others who are struggling and to help them find the strength and resilience to overcome their challenges.
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Allie Clark, a student at Issaquah High School:
What movie, song, book, podcast, etc., are you recommending that has positively impacted you and your mental health? Please list it/them below.
- Turtles All The Way Down
Why are you recommending this and how has it changed you, helped with your mental health, and day-to-day life?
- I think it gives a great look into what life is like with an anxiety disorder and helps those who are struggling feel seen.
Would you be interested in sharing more about your mental health story with others? If so, please provide a short paragraph or two below that may be shared on the website.
- I have been struggling with an anxiety disorder my entire life and only recently have pursued therapy and medication. When bringing up my concerns, I was often dismissed as "dramatic", which really took a toll on my self perception. Upon getting help and talking to my friends, I realized that a lot of people had similar struggles. I now work for the National Alliance on Mental Illness to help spread resources and support to teens throughout Washington.
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Isla Hanleybrown, a student at International School:
What movie, song, book, podcast, etc., are you recommending that has positively impacted you and your mental health? Please list it/them below.
- Love Yourz by J. Cole
Why are you recommending this and how has it changed you, helped with your mental health, and day-to-day life?
- I have a hard time not comparing myself to others constantly whether that be academic success, looks, or relationships. this song is a reminder to be grateful and love myself and my own life.
What are some important messages you want others to look out for?
- LOVE YOUR OWN LIFE!
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Anonymous:
What movie, song, book, podcast, etc., are you recommending that has positively impacted you and your mental health? Please list it/them below.
- Mac miller’s album swimming
Why are you recommending this and how has it changed you, helped with your mental health, and day-to-day life?
- I really resonated with the lyrics and his struggle with mental health made me feel less alone
What are some important messages you want others to look out for?
- You are not alone!!
What is your favorite takeaway from it? (lyric, quote, saying, line, etc.)
- “I was drowning but now im swimming”
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Anonymous:
What movie, song, book, podcast, etc., are you recommending that has positively impacted you and your mental health? Please list it/them below.
- The podcast Anything Goes https://open.spotify.com/show/5VzFvh1JlEhBMS6ZHZ8CNO
Why are you recommending this and how has it changed you, helped with your mental health, and day-to-day life?
- The podcast gives me a different perspective on things and makes me feel understood.
What are some important messages you want others to look out for?
- If someone isn’t treating you the way you should be treated, it has absolutely nothing to do with you.
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Would you like to contribute to this page? Here is a link you can fill out! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16b-T6yLjp7cQQCAeAPx8mQrfsHfXEWVaT8jQAMyTkLo/viewform?edit_requested=true