Throughout 2020, mental health especially for teens, in the United States have plummeted with suicide rates have risen drastically . There has always been a large stigma around the discussion of mental health and suicide and many people tend to hide their day to day struggles. Now that people across the country are stuck indoors all day, anxiety and depression have worsened for many, yet we still are not having conversations surrounding mental health. People need daily routine and social interaction to form healthy habits and reduce stress levels. 

Economic and home situations, as well as domestic abuse, and the interruption of daily routine are a few contributors to worsening mental health. According to a CDC report on surveys of US adults in late June, more than 40% are experiencing elevated adverse mental health conditions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the surveyed population, those who were disproportionally affected were young adults, racial/ethnic minorities, essential workers and adult caregivers. They reported worse health outcomes, increased substance use, and elevated suicide risk.

With everything going on in the world, I think that people often forget to take care of themselves mentally and physically. Although it is too early to have concrete, definitive numbers, suicide rates are thought to have risen this year due to the COVID pandemic. I wanted to use my platform and artistic abilities to raise awareness and start a conversation about this. All proceeds from my print sales and commissions will be donated to The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide. 

To learn more about specific statistics and the increase of suicide rates go to: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/suicide.shtml