GOVERNOR’S OFFICE PROCLAIMS MAY ‘MENTAL HEALTH MONTH’ WITH A FOCUS ON KIDS

May 1, 2018

DENVER – The Governor’s office Tuesday proclaimed May 2018 Mental Health Month with a focus on kids.

In the West Foyer of the State Capitol building, 14-year-old Brianna Johnson helped read the proclamation, which highlights the importance of early intervention and treatment.

Years ago, Johnson was diagnosed with depression, anxiety and PTSD after being repeatedly abandoned and rejected by her father.

She said she tried to kill herself more than once and tried to run away three times.

As a survivor who is doing much better under the care of a therapist, Northfield High School freshman said kids need to feel like they can talk about their problems.

“As a kid, like, you go through so much,” Johnson said. “You go through bullying about anything, and it can cause severe problems in the present and in the future. And I think if you talk about it, then maybe they’ll be a little more comfortable talking about the little problems to the big problems. And it can actually help them in the long run.”

The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization Mental Health Colorado said half of mental health issues occur before a person turns 14 and that early intervention can change the course of someone’s life.

Originally appeared on 9News.