Written by: JR Robinson

The future of Memphis lies in the hands of our youth, but the challenges they face, particularly concerning mental health, have never been more pressing. Commissioner Charlie A. Caswell Jr. of District 6 Shelby County emphasizes the gravity of the situation: "Adverse Childhood Experiences are real, let's talk about it. Our kids are not ok, we are not ok. Our Mental Health Matters." With such dire realities, it is vital that our community comes together, not just to talk, but to act, to ensure the mental and emotional well-being of our young people.

A Crisis in the Making

Recent data surrounding youth mental health in Tennessee paints a troubling picture. Nearly one in four children between the ages of 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with some form of mental, emotional, or developmental challenge. In Memphis specifically, high school students are facing mental health challenges at an alarming rate, with over 40% reporting symptoms of depression. Compounding this issue is the lack of access to care—more than half of the affected youth did not receive treatment.

While mental health may be the most visible crisis, it's important to recognize that these challenges intersect with other areas of life for our young people. In 2023, the Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) district saw a slight improvement in graduation rates, yet it still lags behind state averages. Juvenile crime, though declining in some areas, remains a significant concern. With the MSCS facing a budget deficit of $150 million, cuts to essential programs further endanger the future of our youth.

Commissioner Caswell’s Call for Community Unity

No single solution will solve these complex challenges, but Commissioner Caswell understands the power of community. His InfoHub, hosted through JustMy, offers a platform for everyone in District 6 to come together, share ideas, and collaborate on ways to support our youth. Whether it's organizing events, sharing resources, or offering mentorship, the InfoHub ensures that community members can connect and pool their efforts to create lasting change.

How the Community Can Help

Supporting youth, especially in District 6, requires involvement from every corner of the community:

• Parents and caregivers: Open conversations about mental health and look out for signs of distress. Your voice matters in advocating for your child’s well-being.
• Teachers and educators: Continue creating safe, affirming spaces in schools, while promoting social and emotional learning programs.
• Faith leaders: Incorporate mental health into religious teachings, offering young people a space to discuss their concerns.
• Public officials: Champion policies that support mental health programs in schools and community centers.
• Neighbors and mentors: Volunteer your time. Engage with youth by being a positive role model and advocate.

Empowering Youth Through Engagement

Beyond addressing the crisis, Commissioner Caswell's Youth Engagement Initiative provides a direct way for young people to be heard. Through the InfoHub, they can share their perspectives on issues affecting them, whether it be mental health, education, or safety. By amplifying their voices, we ensure that the youth have a say in shaping the solutions that will define their future.

A Call to Action

The youth of Memphis are resilient, but they need our help to thrive. Let’s unite as a community—parents, teachers, leaders, and neighbors—because the mental health and future of our young people is a shared responsibility. Together, we can lift them out of crisis and create pathways to success.

District 6, your opportunity to make a difference starts now. Join Commissioner Caswell’s InfoHub and be part of the movement that builds a stronger, healthier future for our children. Whether you’re sharing ideas, organizing events, or simply offering support, your role is vital. Let’s make our community a place where youth are heard, supported, and empowered to succeed.

For more information or to get involved, visit Commissioner Caswell’s InfoHub and start making a difference today.