Boulder Teens Use Music to Support Mental Health Initiatives
Boulder, Colo. – A group of enterprising teenagers from Fairview High School is harnessing the power of music to address the pressing issue of teen mental health. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, studies have shown a significant rise in mental health challenges among adolescents. Concerned by the visible sadness in their peers, freshman Alexander Zhao initiated “Music for Teen Mental Health” with the goal of raising funds for mental health treatment.
Recognizing the emotional toll of the pandemic, Zhao remarked on observing peers who were withdrawn and reluctant to engage. He enlisted his younger brother and two friends to perform music at local senior centers and various venues, turning their passion into purpose. At these performances, the young musicians encourage audiences to contribute to their GoFundMe campaign, with proceeds directed towards organizations dedicated to youth mental health support.
Violinist Jiyu Kim expressed enthusiasm for the initiative’s potential growth, stating, “I think it would be great to just expand our program with different instruments, different people, different music.” The group is keen to welcome other musicians to broaden their impact and enhance their outreach.
As the initiative gains momentum, it illustrates how community-driven efforts can create significant change, combining artistry with compassion. This project not only offers support to those in need but also empowers youth to advocate for mental health awareness, fostering a proactive approach to addressing a critical issue. For more information on the project and how to contribute, interested individuals are encouraged to visit their GoFundMe page.