In recognizing the critical importance of youth mental health, Ocean State Media is partnering with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island to amplify youth mental health coverage across our programming. We aim to make critical information more accessible and raise awareness among our diverse audience by featuring stories spanning community affairs to arts and culture.
AS220 Youth Artists Use Music as a Lifeline for Mental Health
In a powerful songwriting exercise, young creatives turn personal pain into healing, connection, and hope through music
Art Across Generations: Providence Students and Seniors Find Creative Connection on Blackstone Boulevard
In a unique intergenerational art class at School One, Rhode Island teens and older adults share brushes, stories, and inspiration — transforming a city sidewalk into a living canvas of color and community
Rhode Island Schools Turn to Virtual Therapy to Address Student Mental Health Crisis
With in-person counselors in short supply, districts like Bristol-Warren are embracing telepsychology platforms like Cartwheel to deliver faster, more accessible care for kids still feeling the effects of the pandemic
25 Years After Jennifer Rivera’s Murder, Rhode Island’s Nonviolence Institute Carries On Her Legacy
Born from tragedy, the Providence-based institute—now led by Lisa Pina-Warren—continues to fight community violence with compassion, outreach, and the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
'Finding Hope': A New Spotlight on Youth Mental Health in Rhode Island and Massachusetts
In the midst of a growing mental health crisis among young people, Rhode Island PBS and The Public’s Radio launch a week-long project highlighting resilience, community support, and youth-led solutions
Advice for Parents in the Digital Age
Clinical psychologist Jacqueline Nesi helps parents navigate social media in her Substack, "Techno Sapiens"
STEAM Box Empowers Rhode Island Teens to Lead, Create and Broadcast Through Podcasting
With pizza, mentorship, and a mic, Roberto Gonzalez and his student-led program give youth a voice—turning curiosity into confidence and classrooms into launchpads for global storytelling
Bridging Time and Place: Donna Bassin’s Exhibit Explores Environmental Crisis and Collective Resilience
A unique collaboration between an artist, students from Bradley Schools and the Newport Art Museum
The Innovator Taking on the "Loneliness Epidemic"
Ashley Kirsner saw loneliness everywhere. Then, she had an idea
High Schoolers in Rhode Island Face Mental Health Crisis, Why Some Fare Worse than Others
Since 1987, RISAS has implemented Project SUCCESS (Schools Using Coordinated Community Efforts to Strengthen Students) in Rhode Island middle and high schools. Recognized by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) as an evidence-based program, Project SUCCESS is proven effective in preventing and reducing substance use among youth ages 12 to 18.
The program embeds a specially trained, master’s-level Student Assistance Counselor within each school, providing students with direct access to services. This model enables early identification and intervention for risk factors related to alcohol and drug use, including early drinking, poor academic performance, tardiness, absenteeism, and behavioral issues.
As of August 2024, Project SUCCESS operates in 36 middle schools and 40 high schools across 32 school districts in Rhode Island. Over 52,000 students will have access to a Student Assistance Counselor in their school, 6,121 students received at least one topic of the Prevention Education Series curricula, and 6,288 were assessed for substance use.
Chris Collins, 20, died by suicide March 29, 2018 after a 3-year battle with anxiety and depression. Chris’ smile would brighten the lives of everyone he met. He was the truest of friends and his love for and concern for others lives on through his foundation and its Peer-to-Peer Mental Health Awareness Program in schools.
The first signs of many mental health issues often emerge during the middle and high school years. P2P is an evidence-based, student-led program that seeks to raise awareness of mental health conditions, fight stigma, and encourage help-seeking when necessary.
At Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI), we know many parents in our state need an answer to that question. With the difficulties of the last few years, more children and teens are experiencing anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder . This how-to guide can make it easier to locate the care your child needs, from younger children to teenagers . We explain what signs to look for, what questions to ask, and what resources are available in Rhode Island—through providers and in the community . This guide is for any Rhode Island parent who needs assistance . If you’re a BCBSRI member, you can also contact us at 1-800-274-2958 or visit bcbsri.com/mentalhealth
At Ocean State Media, we believe that sharing real stories can break down stigma and bring communities together. We are inviting students and parents in Rhode Island to share their mental health journeys—challenges, triumphs, and everything in between. Your voice matters, and your story could help someone else feel seen, supported, and less alone.
