Back2Besa host Besa Gordon recently sat down with Dr. Dwane Chappelle, Director at the Department of Early Education and Learning (DEEL), to discuss the mental health supports available to youth across Seattle. Recognizing that young people are navigating school, family, friendships, and real trauma, their conversation centered on the necessity of a trusted adult who will simply listen. 

DEEL's work focuses on creating multiple entry points for young people to connect with care, such as school-based health centers, community partnerships, and virtual options, ensuring the support feels approachable and not intimidating.

A key takeaway from the discussion was the profound importance of youth feeling seen and heard by adults, especially when they may not feel heard at home. Gordon shared her personal experience, noting that access to a teen health center in her middle and high school years "changed everything," providing a trusted space to say what she couldn't at home and feel validated. This simple act of being heard, not rushed or talked over, is often the emotional release young people need.

DEEL is committed to building an entire ecosystem of support, not just one single solution, which also includes accessible mechanisms like QR codes to help youth access support streams. The goal is to ensure young people know help is available and that reaching out is acceptable. The discussion underscored that when young people have someone to talk to, someone who listens, and someone who believes them, it has the power to change everything in their lives.

Learn more about free teen mental health resources here.