“The word I chose to convey was ‘communication.’ Mental struggles can be alleviated through other people's help, but in order for an individual to receive the help they need, their thoughts and feelings must first be declared. Adolescents are often told to reach out for help, but in reality, asking for help can be a very difficult and muddled process. In my painting, a girl is being dragged down by a tangible manifestation of those restricting factors in the form of blank, white masses. To better help the youth of today, I would like to see more receptive and accepting adults that can offer genuine aid to those inflicted with mental illnesses. Adolescents should not have their words drowned out; they must be heard in order to be helped.”

“I wanted to focus on LGBT acceptance, especially for people in families of color. I found that it's more unlikely for people of color to accept the LGBTQ community, and their members of their family who might happen to be in it. In a perfect world, children would be accepted by their parents no matter their orientation or identity. Supportive families are the first step to acceptance in the greater world.”

"When I asked my class what word described their vision of Mental Health at our school, they all thought of the same thing. At our school they are leaders - they promote Mental Health - offer help and assistance to anyone that needs it - they are aware and feel responsible. They have learned from their partnership with Directing Change and RCOE that the future is up to them! We have to work together within our school and our community to bring awareness and help to those that need it... that requires leadership."