Many students in BSGE have spent money on therapists and mental health services, not knowing about NYC Teenspace. Teens today face many pressures, from academic stress to social media challenges. Recognizing the growing need for mental health support, the New York City Department of Health has launched a program called NYC Teenspace, which introduced a range of resources in collaboration with another program called Talkspace. Through this partnership, teenagers in NYC now have access to therapists and counselors via text, audio, and video messaging, giving them a chance to seek help on their own terms.
Based on interviews conducted with ten students at BSGE, half have stated that their families have had to pay for their mental health services. All ten students mentioned they had never heard about Teenspace.
The process is simple and confidential. Teens can sign up for free access to Talkspace through NYC Teenspace’s website. Once registered, they can begin chatting with a licensed therapist through the Talkspace app, which is available on both Android and iPhone devices. Sessions are available in various formats, including live chat, video, and audio messaging, so teens can choose what works best for them.
NYC Teenspace and Talkspace also offer educational workshops and resources on topics like stress management, self-care, and dealing with anxiety. These sessions aim to equip teens with practical tools and strategies to handle everyday stresses and build resilience. One of the primary goals of this partnership is to help break down the stigma associated with mental health. By providing a platform where teens can talk openly and confidentially, NYC Teenspace hopes to foster a culture where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.
NYC Teenspace encourages all teens to take advantage of these resources. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, dealing with personal issues, or just need someone to talk to, Talkspace is there to help. All NYC teens aged 13-19 are eligible, and registration is easy and confidential.
Overall, this is a fantastic opportunity for teens to access support, learn new skills, and become part of a caring community that prioritizes mental health. Visit NYC Teenspace online to learn more and sign up today!
