Mental Health is a huge part of teens day to day lives and not many people bring notice to it. Senior Samruddhi Panse recognized that many people weren’t bringing up the topic of mental health and knew that needed to be changed.

She started an organization called Compass Movement. It was made to spread awareness and break the stigma of mental health related issues. 

Panse wanted to create an organization run by teens for teens. After she started working with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), she realized how many people hide their day-to-day mental health struggles. 

Teenagers have so much to deal with from school, sports, and even work that mental health is the last thing teens think of. That’s why Compass Movement is working on bringing up the conversation and the importance of mental health. 

“Conversation is the key to mental health awareness and anti-bullying,” said Panse. “Reach out to your friends if you notice them acting different because it could have a huge impact.”

One can get involved with Compass Movement by reaching out to Samruddhi Panse and by going to Compass Movement events. Compass Movement puts on monthly discussion groups at local libraries. The next will be in the early spring and more information will be released closer to the event. 

If you are currently struggling with your mental health, don’t be afraid to reach out to a friend or teacher. You are not alone. So many people are going through the exact same thing as you so don’t be afraid to speak up. 

According to a 2019 article by the American Psychological Association, the depression rate in teens has increased by 52 percent since 2005. So many people are suffering in silence, and that is exactly why Compass Movement is trying to encourage teens to speak out about what they’re going through so that they can get help. 

“If you ever feel hopeless, know you’re not alone… as isolated as you may feel you aren’t alone,” Panse said. 

Currently, Compass Movement is working on starting these conversations in the Johns Creek and Alpharetta area, and they hope to expand in the near future.