Happymess: Connection is Prevention
Being a teenager has never been easy, but today’s teens face challenges that are uniquely shaped by the digital age, societal pressures, and evolving cultural norms. From navigating social media to finding acceptance, many young people feel caught in what some call the “messy middle”—that awkward space between childhood and adulthood where identity is forged amidst immense pressure.
Acceptance as Suicide Prevention
One of the most impactful ways to support teens, particularly gender-nonconforming and transgender youth, is through acceptance. Feeling rejected by peers or society can be devastating, but being welcomed for who they are can save lives. As one student noted, “Being accepting to gender nonconforming and transgender students is honestly suicide prevention.”
