On Saturday, June 21, youth from three different churches—and some from no church at all—gathered to talk about mental health.
The program, funded by a youth ministry grant, was part of Centenary UMC’s “Inspiring Youth Project.” Rev. Sooah Na realized that everyone could use a little encouragement from positive role models. Reverend Na wanted to create spaces where young people could encounter inspiration. Together with the young people in her congregation and a few key leaders, Rev. Na dreamed up a speaker series that could speak life into young people. Mental health was the topic youth said they wanted to hear about the most.
After opening praise and worship—and a high-energy round of Train Wreck led by James Mojomick—Rev. Jamie Min, a licensed clinical social worker and deacon in The United Methodist Church, stood to speak on mental health. She shared from her own experience growing up in South Korea, where mental health wasn’t often discussed. She told the group how she would feel restless, shaky, and worried a lot every time she had to take a test.
“Looking back, I know I was struggling with anxiety, but I didn’t have the words for what I was going through.”
Min explained that our overall mental health affects how we think, feel, and connect with other people. It also affects how we handle stress, relate to friends and family, and make everyday choices.
One in five youth suffer from mental health challenges, the most common of which are depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. Rev. Min explained the symptoms of depression and anxiety, how to recognize them in friends and loved ones, and then provided practical tips for taking care of our mental health.
“Stay active, go outside, and be around people,” Rev. Min shared.
She also unpacked self-care tools like writing in a journal, listening to calming music, and reaching out to a supportive friend. She took time to emphasize the importance of boundaries and the value of developing and maintaining two kinds of support circles:
- An inner circle, made up of friends who will stick with you no matter what
- An outer circle, made up of friends you enjoy spending time with, but who may not be able to hold your most vulnerable truths
After her presentation, the students were invited to reflect on what they learned. They each wrote a reflection on a Post-it and placed it on a poster, along with one question they had. After a final round of Q&A, the day ended with food. Students gathered around platters of Korean fried chicken and tteokbokki, chatting and laughing together.
They were eager to share the moments that resonated with them. Sarah shared, “I want to remember to always have an inner and outer support system in your life.” Irene, from Wesley UMC South Plainfield, shared her key takeaway: “It’s not a support group if you feel like you need to fit into it.” Julia, also from Wesley South Plainfield, wanted to remember Rev. Min’s teaching about opposite actions: if you are feeling sad and want to isolate, the best thing to do is the opposite—reach out and call a friend.
The day was more than just a conversation about mental health—it was a powerful reminder that young people are not alone in their struggles. By creating a safe and supportive space, the Inspiring Youth Project helped youth find not only encouragement and understanding, but also the tools to care for themselves and each other.