Indianapolis schools are providing free mental health education to their students through Erika’s Lighthouse, a nonprofit raising awareness about youth depression and suicide.
Nearly half of Indiana high school students experienced depression last year, a survey from the Indiana Department of Health found, and 25% considered suicide.
“Every student deserves good mental health,” said Brandon Combs, the executive director of Erika’s Lighthouse. “We’re making sure everyone in the building has a set of shared vocabulary and values.”
The organization’s programming touches on various topics, including managing stress, talking to a trusted adult and the signs of depression. It has been used in 2,400 schools across the country, including three in Indianapolis: Enlace Academy, Brebeuf Jesuit High School and St. Barnabas Catholic School.
“We are looking to expand right now,” Combs said. “Any school anywhere can adopt these resources and start leveraging them.”
Erika’s Lighthouse was founded by the parents of Erika Neuckranz, a 14-year-old student from Illinois who died by suicide in 2004.
“We want kids to know that you can get better,” a message from Erika’s mother, Ginny Neuckranz, reads. “Tools to be the best version of yourself are available.”
Teachers and administrators can download education materials for grades four through 12, including age-appropriate lessons, videos and worksheets. Staff training resources are also available.
Mirror Indy reporter Mary Claire Molloy covers health. Reach her at 317-721-7648 or email maryclaire.molloy@mirrorindy.org. Follow her on X @mcmolloy7.
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