2023 IWES Policy Advisory Fellows (PAF) Alumni

Question:

Why is it so important/crucial to focus on Black youth mental health (BYMH), especially in New Orleans/the South?

Kailynn:

When it comes to Black youth and mental health, it is a very important topic to speak on due to the generational trauma and mistrust that has been passed down from generation to generation. This is due to the long experiences of systemic racism, discrimination, and socioeconomic disparities that have led to higher levels of stress, trauma, and mental health challenges in the Black community. Because of this, many Black youth in the South may be faced with a burden of mental health issues (depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and more). Not to mention, these burdens can also be combined with more disparities such as limited access to quality healthcare, higher exposure to violence, and limited educational and economic opportunities. Therefore, it is very important that we are able to make a holistic approach that provides mental health services, community support, educational initiatives, and policy change to create an equitable and inclusive environment for all Black individuals in New Orleans. While doing so, it is important to make sure to advocate around mental health awareness due to the fact that it can have a long lasting impact on an individual's life. Lastly, it is also very important to speak on these issues and the fact that youth are the future leaders, the future leaders that will bring change in our community and worldwide.

Question:

What brought you into this project?

Kailynn:

I knew growing up that I wanted to focus on mental health awareness/advocacy and policy, but I never knew that the two topics could intersect to drive the change that is needed. When learning about the Policy Advisory Fellowship, what brought me in automatically was the fact that I would be able to identify and assess existing policies in education, the juvenile legal system, and the social services sector that impact the mental health and well-being of Black youth. Most importantly, I also wanted to make contributions as a Fellow to local, state, and national policies, and champion this systems-thinking, interdisciplinary approach to improve youth mental health.

Question:

What is your major takeaway from this project?

Kailynn:

My biggest takeaway from this experience has been learning about all of the things that can truly lead to mental health battles. With that being said, oftentimes it is not your common triggers, but it can be triggers from your own living environment.

Question:

What is your favorite thing about this project?

Kailynn:

My favorite thing about being a Fellow was the fact that I was truly able to learn so much, and learn so much about different topics and issues.

Question:

What is the impact you think the Fellowship will have (or already has had) on your career/future?

Kailynn:

Being able to participate in this Fellowship has not only impacted my career goals and future, but it has also helped me be more PASSIONATE and CONFIDENT. For the longest time, I would tell people that I wanted to work in Environmental and Medical Malpractice Policy and Benefits. But I always wondered how in the world I could make this work. But now when I look at it, my passion, and a diverse field of knowledge is what is needed for me to drive change in my community and fight for justice.

Question:

What policy or systems changes would you recommend to support BYMH? What is lacking now, or what equity gaps need to be addressed to improve BYMH?

Kailynn:

I would like to address quite a few equity gaps, most importantly, increasing funding for mental health services in schools and hiring mental health professionals that are culturally competent with youth. In addition to the work in the education system, we need to work on implementing anti-racist curricula and trainings for educators to reduce racial biases in educational and healthcare settings. We should also develop community-based programs and safe spaces for Black youth to address their mental health challenges and gain awareness about self-care. Together as a society, we need to come together as a whole and eliminate systemic racism and the economic disparities that are contributing to mental health inequities. To do this it is also very important to know that YOU need to go out and advocate for these principles. This means go advocate for federal and state policies that prioritize mental health as a public health issue, especially as it relates to addressing the mental health needs of Black youth. 

Question:

What is your vision of a world where Black youth have all of the mental health supports they need? What would it take to get there and what is your hope for the future?

Kailynn:

As a Black person with Black siblings, I want them and all of the other Black youth to thrive, reach their full potential, and experience mental well-being without the burden of systemic inequities. However, to make this vision happen a lot of things will need to be done - this includes policy changes to prioritize and fund mental health services, further education, and community support for Black youth. It's also important to provide widespread cultural competence and anti-racist training, collaboratively among communities, organizations, and the government itself. While doing so, their needs to be a moment of silence and peace for Black youth to inform these entities, and they should be encouraged to share their support by participating in initiatives for their mental health. But to do this, we must provide the resources for this change and involvement. In addition, I also hope that one day individuals will really see mental health as a priority and provide the resources and support that is needed so that we can have a society that is equitable and can flourish even more.