NAMI-NYC Launches Peer-Led Teen Mental Health Programs with New York City Council Support  - National Alliance on Mental Illness of New York City , Inc.

NAMI-NYC Launches Peer-Led Teen Mental Health Programs with New York City Council Support 

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New York, NY–NAMI-NYC is proud to announce the launch of its new teen mental health programs made possible through the support of the New York City Council.  

With the $250,000 award, NAMI-NYC created a new youth team, including a Youth Peer Support Director and a Youth Peer Leader. From there, NAMI-NYC launched its Teen Helpline for teens ages 14-18, where a trained young person who has experienced mental health challenges provides support and resources. Similarly, Connection Corner, a weekly virtual teen support group, is facilitated by near peers.  

“We are deeply grateful to Speaker Adrienne Adams and the New York City Council for their investment in preventative, community-based mental health support. Evidence shows that teens listen to and trust their peers, so with this pilot, we can meet kids where they are,” said Maggie Mortali, CEO of NAMI-NYC.  

As mental health concerns among young people continue to grow, one in five NYC students who need additional mental health support do not receive it, according to the NYC Department of Education. Additionally, half of all mental health and substance use conditions begin before age 14.  

Thanks to this tremendous investment from the NYC Council, NAMI-NYC’s teen programs now include:  

  • Teen Helpline: A mental health warm line for teens ages 14–18, providing a safe space to ask questions, seek support, and connect with trained near peers close in age with lived experience. In addition to call, chat, and email, teens can now text the Helpline, as well: 212-684-3264.   
  • Connection Corner (Teen Support Group): A virtual, peer-led support group for teens, offering a welcoming community to share experiences, connect, and find encouragement. Meets weekly and is free of charge with no registration required.  
  • Youth Advisory Group: A convening of teens, parents, and professionals who use their lived experiences with mental health to inform and shape NAMI-NYC’s teen programs.   
  • Youth Guide: A digital resource providing comprehensive information on mental health, available support, and ways for teens to navigate challenges and access help.  

“Suicide is the second leading cause of death for young people. NAMI-NYC has a cost-effective, preventative solution to an urgent youth mental health crisis.  “We hope for continued Council support to continue building this program and scaling it to teens in need throughout the city and beyond,” said Maggie Mortali. 

NAMI-NYC’s teen programs are free and available to schools, families, and community organizations across New York City. NAMI-NYC also continues to provide its Ending the Silence presentation for middle and high school students, their families, and staff, teaching the warning signs, kickstarting mental health conversations, and how to seek support.  

Learn more or get involved here.  

Want to meet us? We’re celebrating our program launch with teens 14-19 on Wednesday, June 11, from 5-7 PM. RSVP for a fun night here.