Newtown State Rep. Bolinsky Announces New Mental Wellness Resource For Teens

Press release:

NEWTOWN- State Representative Mitch Bolinsky (R-106 Newtown) is happy to announce a state mental health resource for young adults.

The website, www.TurningPointCT.org is a great new resource that offers teens guidance toward mental health and wellness.

“Many young adults struggle with addiction and their mental health. In fact, suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among 15-24 year olds. If you or someone you know needs help, www.TurningPointCT.org can help guide you toward local services. The site also has an informative question and answer guide, an online discussion forum, and personal stories,” said Rep Bolinsky.

The new resource is made possible by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, provides a supportive environment for teens struggling with their mental health to connect and support each other on their journey toward mental wellness.

Read Fact Sheet from TurningPointCT.org:

Overall:
 On average, individuals wait more than six years from onset of symptoms before
receiving treatment for mental health and substance use disorders
 With treatment, 70%-90% of people have a significantly improved quality of life

Mental Health:
 Mental illness begins, on average, at age 14
 22% of high school students reported being bullied in the past 12 months
 20-25% of high school students felt sad or hopeless almost every day for 2 weeks in the
past 12 months
 20% of 18-25 year olds experienced major psychological distress in the past year
 9% of CT high school students report not eating for 24 hours or more because of body
image issues

Substance Use and Addiction:
 Over 90% of people with abuse/dependence started using before the age of 18
 26% of CT residents age 12 and up report binge drinking (having 5 or more drinks at a
time)
 10% of CT youth ages 12-17 reported using drugs recently

Suicide:
 Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among 15-24 year olds
 15% of high school students seriously considered attempting suicide during the past
year

Photo: TurningPointCT.org