DALLAS, TX (February 4, 2025) – Mental Health America of Greater Dallas (MHA-Greater Dallas) is proud to announce the upcoming 49th Annual Adolescent Symposium of Texas, a two-day event that will bring together leading experts in the field of child and adolescent mental health. This symposium aims to address the pressing challenges faced by today’s youth and provide valuable insights and tools for mental health professionals, counselors, teachers, parents, and advocates.
The symposium will feature presentations and workshops from over 50 experts who are at the forefront of research and practice in youth mental health. These workshops and presentations provide an exceptional opportunity where attendees can earn 12 continuing education units over the two-day symposium. Attendees can also expect impactful discussions on a wide range of topics, including anxiety and eating disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, the impact of technology, trauma-informed care, suicide prevention, substance abuse prevention, and treatment strategies.
One highlight of this year’s event is the two powerful keynote speeches. The first keynote will be delivered by Saul Malek, a renowned public speaker featured on Dr. Phil and major news platforms of the New York Times, PBS, and NPR. He delivers a powerful story regarding the importance of handling addictions such as gambling and sports betting. The second keynote speaker is Drew Myers, an intentionality coach and author who generates hope, inspires action and reminds people to make the important things important – starting with themselves.
Pennie Beauchamp, Interim Executive Director of MHA-Greater Dallas, said: “This symposium represents an important opportunity for us to come together as a community and tackle the complex issues of youth mental health head-on. We believe that creating a brighter tomorrow starts with equipping our community with the tools they need to support and advocate for our youth effectively.”
According to a recent study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, about 20% of all adolescents between 12 to 17 years old have had a major depressive episode. Another recent study by Mental Health America found that Texas currently ranks in the bottom 13% for mental health access for adults and children. It is crucial now more than ever to prioritize early intervention strategies that support our youth struggling with mental health issues.
Deborah Cohen, Ph.D., assistant professor of psychiatry at Dell Med’s Department of Psychiatry and co-lead for the Center for Youth Mental Health, stated: “Through interviews and surveys with our partners, we’ve learned that young adults view mental health services with a scarcity mindset, thinking ‘I should figure this out on my own. Someone has it tougher than I do, and I don’t want to take space from them.” It’s important for us to understand what care should look like for adolescents and young adults and shift this narrative to show young people that seeking help is a sign of strength.
To learn more and register for the 49th Annual Adolescent Symposium of Texas, March 5-6th, 2025, visit https://mhadallas.org/asot/. For exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities, contact Pennie Beauchamp at (214) 871-2420 x109 or pbeauchamp@mhadallas.org.