Youth mental health the focus of free community discussion and documentary screening in Twin Falls Event planned for Tuesday, October 4 at 6 pm at the Herrett Center for Arts & Science

Twin Falls, ID – Idaho ranks 50th among states with a higher prevalence of youth mental illness and lower rates of access to care. Nearly 1 out of every 4 Idaho residents suffer from some form of mental illness. These stark facts make widespread communication and action around youth mental health more important than ever.

On Tuesday, October 4, starting at 6 pm, St. Luke’s invites Magic Valley community members to a free 30-minute screening of the Ken Burns documentary, Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Health, followed by a facilitated community discussion on youth mental health and the role we can all play in supporting our young residents. The documentary follows the journeys of 20 young Americans throughout the country from all walks of life, who have struggled with thoughts and feelings that have troubled—and, at times—overwhelmed them. The documentary also highlights the hope, resources and effective treatment that many have found while living with a mental health disorder. No RSVP is required to attend this event, but the content and discussion are best suited for those high school-aged and older.

“Our entire community must take responsibility for addressing mental health challenges,” said Eva Craner, spokesperson for Twin Falls School District. “These types of community events can help start conversations that will lead to action to address the ongoing mental health crisis in our state. The dialogue from this event will empower those who participate to work towards a more caring and healthier community”

Improving access to mental health services was identified by the St. Luke's Magic Valley 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), as one of the most significant health needs in south-central Idaho. St. Luke’s is hosting these community youth mental health sessions as part of its commitment to reducing the stigma around seeking mental health treatment and improving access to mental health services.

“As a parent of a child that has struggled with mental illness, I often feel alone and unsure how to help him,” said Mandi Thompson, Assistant to the City Manager, City of Twin Falls. “The topic is hard and scary for parents and kids alike, and it does not just affect one person, it impacts the entire family. Unless we start talking about it and normalizing it in conversation, nothing will change. It is ok to not be ok.”

Event Details:

· What: Free 30-minute screening of the Ken Burns documentary, Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Health and a community conversation

· When: Tuesday, October 4 from 6 pm to 8 pm

· Where: Herrett Center for Arts & Science, 315 Falls Avenue, Twin Falls, ID 83301

St. Luke’s will hold an additional screening of the Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Health documentary and community conversation in the Wood River Valley:

October 5 at 6 pm Minnie Moore Room, Community Campus 1050 Fox Acres Road, Hailey, ID

Episodes of the Hiding in Plain Sight documentary are available for viewing at https://www.pbs.org/show/hiding-plain-sight-youth-mental-illness/