What is Mental Health?
Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act — it influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. Just like physical health, it requires attention, care, and understanding.

Good mental health doesn’t mean feeling happy all the time — it means being able to manage life’s ups and downs with healthy coping skills and supportive relationships.

Common mental health challenges among teens include:

• Anxiety or stress
• Depression or sadness
• Loneliness or isolation
• Pressure to succeed
• Trouble balancing school, social life, and responsibilities

Why Awareness Matters:
Conversations around mental health can save lives. When students recognize the signs of distress — in themselves or others — they can reach out sooner, seek help, and prevent crises from escalating. Promoting mental health awareness builds stronger, more connected school communities where every student feels seen, heard, and supported.

Untreated mental health challenges can lead to academic struggles, social withdrawal, or self-harm — but with early awareness and open dialogue, recovery and resilience are possible.

What to Focus on in Your PSA:
Your video should address one or more of the following key focal points:

• Breaking the Stigma: Encourage open and honest conversations about mental health. Show that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Recognizing the Signs: Highlight warning signs that a friend, classmate, or peer may be struggling emotionally.
• Supporting Others: Demonstrate how empathy, listening, and checking in can make a difference.
• Healthy Coping Strategies: Share practical ways students can manage stress, anxiety, or pressure in positive ways.
• Accessing Help: Inform students about where to turn — whether it’s a counselor, teacher, parent, or trusted resource.
• The Power of Connection: Emphasize how community, friendship, and unity can protect and strengthen mental wellness.

Why Participate?
Student Teams who take part will have the chance to:

• Win exciting prizes and statewide recognition.
• Use creativity to make a real impact on peers across Texas.
• Help spark change in how mental health is understood and supported in schools.

Together, we can create a culture where every student knows it’s okay to not be okay — and that help is always within reach. Your voice matters. Your story can inspire change. Join us in shaping a healthier, stronger, and more connected generation.