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Ending the Silence
Helping middle and high school students understand their mental health can make a big difference in their lives.
Our FREE Ending the Silence program offers three presentations to choose from: one for middle and high school students, one for their parents/guardians, and one for school faculty/staff. Participants learn the warning signs of mental health conditions, discover strategies to improve mental health, and discuss the importance of open communication about mental health concerns.
Ending the Silence presentations are conducted by two leaders: one shares an informative presentation, and one is a young adult with a mental health condition who shares their journey of recovery. These presentations also include time for open discussion about mental health. Ending the Silence presentations are available either in person or virtually via Zoom.
Funding for Ending the Silence is provided in part by The Connor Sheehan Fund.
I’m a NAMI Ending the Silence presenter – Telling my story
“It is amazing what just one day, one talk can do. You never really know what’s going on in the brain of any particular student.” – Teacher
What You Get
NAMI Ending the Silence (ETS) is free of charge, and includes two leaders: one who shares an informative presentation, and a young adult with a mental health condition who shares their journey of recovery. Ask questions and gain understanding of a misunderstood topic.
NAMI Ending the Silence for Students
50-minute presentation designed for middle and high school students that includes warning signs, facts and statistics and how to get help for themselves or a friend. Research has shown that NAMI Ending the Silence for Students is effective in changing middle and high school students’ knowledge and attitudes toward mental health conditions and toward seeking help.
NAMI Ending the Silence for Staff
1-hour presentation for school staff members that includes information about warning signs, facts and statistics, how to approach students and how to work with families.
NAMI Ending the Silence for Families
1-hour presentation for parents, guardians, and other family members of middle or high school aged youth that includes warning signs, facts and statistics, how to talk with your child and how to work with school staff.
What People Are Saying
“I’m really grateful and glad that you talked to us. I often feel very alone or weird because many kids my age don’t understand. But, now I’m sure they would be more supportive of me.” – Student
Why Ending the Silence Matters
“Thank you for coming to my school and sharing your story. You have changed my life forever. The things you explained about your depression relate to how I feel. When I got home, I immediately talked to my parents and hopefully I will get some help.” – Student
How Your Students Benefit
Moving stories from positive role models have the power to change peoples’ views. The discussion gives students the rare opportunity to ask questions about mental health challenges to people who have lived it. The presentation’s message of empathy and hope encourages students to actively care for themselves and their friends. It also teaches them it’s okay to talk about what they’re feeling.
“Recently parents from two different families reached out to me after their children had seen Ending the Silence. Both thanked me for the work we do, along with being grateful to know about us as a resource. They were able to have meaningful and open conversations with their children/students, and are happy they are getting this information in the school setting.” – ETS Program Leader