Breaking Barriers: High School Students Discuss Mental Health with Olympians and Local Leaders

During a recent event called “Under the Surface,” 150 local high school students in Indianapolis had the opportunity to engage in a conversation about mental health. Hosted by the Indianapolis Colts, USA Swimming, and Indiana Sports Corp, the event took place before the U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials.

The students listened to a panel discussion featuring Olympic gold medalist Lilly King, U.S. swimmer Ashley Twichell, Colts cornerback Kenny Moore, and Colts Vice Chair and Owner Kalen Jackson. Lilly King, an Indiana native, shared that she found it helpful to know that others, even those performing at the highest level, struggle with similar feelings. A student from Warren Central High School, Aileen Stockdale, mentioned how eye-opening it was to see herself in the panelists and how mental health issues are similar in both high schoolers and adults.

The students who participated in the event are part of Bring Change to Mind, a national organization with chapters in schools across Indiana. This organization aims to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illnesses. Stockdale shared that she joined the organization to seek help in finding herself while also assisting others in their journey. Through this event and organizations like Bring Change to Mind, young people can learn that they are not alone in their struggles with mental health issues and can seek support without fear of judgment or shame.