Newton County Honors Youth Action Team During Mental Health Awareness Month
At the May 2025 Newton County Board of Commissioners meeting, local students were recognized for leading the charge in youth mental health awareness. The Youth Action Team (YAT), part of the Newton County Community Partnership and Drug-Free Communities Coalition, was honored with an official proclamation declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month.
Francisco Alvarado, a high school YAT member, spoke on behalf of the team, sharing the powerful prevention work YAT members are doing in schools and throughout the Newton County community. Eight high school students and one college student from the team were present to accept the proclamation.
The proclamation spotlighted the urgent need for mental health support among youth. According to the 2024 Georgia Student Health Survey, over half of Newton middle and high school students reported feeling depressed, and more than one-third said anxiety, worries, or fears interfered with daily activities.
YAT is working hard to turn those statistics into stories of hope and healing. Through peer-led initiatives, education campaigns, and partnerships with schools and community organizations, the Youth Action Team is raising awareness, reducing stigma, and helping young people access support.
Their message to Newton County is clear:
Recovery is possible, and no one has to go through it alone.
Support and help are available, and every resident—no matter their situation—deserves access to mental health care.
Chairman Linda D. Hays presented the proclamation, encouraging parents, caregivers, and community members to learn the signs of mental health conditions and advocate for wellness in children’s daily lives.
We’re proud of our YAT members for using their voices to create change, support their peers, and remind the community that healing starts with connection and awareness.
📸 Stay Connected:
Follow NCP and YAT for updates on events, youth leadership, and how you can support mental health advocacy in Newton County.
