In the fall of 2023, RAHD met with students of James Monroe High School to get their take on what mental health looks like to them and how they can best be supported. Students were given two weeks to take pictures according to the three prompts above. Following those two weeks, RAHD conducted focus groups for each prompt. Students had the opportunity to see their peers’ pictures and discuss the prompts more in depth. The final meetings focused on planning their project exhibition. The James Monroe High School group chose to do a virtual exhibition of their project. The students chose the title, color scheme, and layout of their exhibition. Every student shared a nuanced and enlightening perspective on mental health which you’ll be able to see as you scroll through this exhibition. For participating in the project, students received lunch at every meeting and a $50 gift card.

Fine more information on the RAHD American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Youth Mental Health Project here.