Teens spotlight mental health struggles in powerful PSA campaign

The local coalition behind “Breaking the Silence: Teens Fighting Suicide” is amplifying student voices by spotlighting eight standout public service announcements created by high school students across the region.

The campaign – led by The Joe Burrow Foundation, FOX 19, Crossroads Church and Interact for Health – invited teens to submit roughly 30-second videos answering the question, “What do you wish the adults in your life knew about mental health?” More than 60 students submitted videos, and the organizers selected three finalists for a public vote. The winning PSA, “The Field” by Cole Rensberger of Wyoming High School, aired during the Super Bowl on FOX in February.

Now, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, organizers are releasing a curated list of top videos to continue the conversation. The common thread? Young people want adults to hear them and understand who they are.

“Mental health has been a more prominent part of public conversation and consciousness,” the organizers wrote in a statement. “Now is the moment to turn this heightened awareness into positive action for lasting change. There are ways that all of us can get involved in improving mental health and well-being in our region, but the one thing we can all do is listen.”

Featured videos include “You Can Be the Difference” by Bridget Brennen of Dixie Heights and “Break Your Silence” by Gina Jasinoski of St. Bernard High School. A full playlist of the student PSAs is available on YouTube. The hope is people will share them on social media to spread awareness and support mental wellness in youth communities.

“Take a step today to listen to youth by watching and sharing these videos with your family, friends, and social media network,” organizers said.

Top student videos

Click the name of each video to view these powerful, moving PSAs:

• Alaina Kuhn, Highlands High School: “People”
• Bridget Brennen, Dixie Heights High School: “You Can Be the Difference”
• Cole Rensberger (winner), Wyoming High School: “The Field”
• Elle Riva, Mason High School: “You Are Not Alone”
• Gina Jasinoski, St. Bernard High School: “Break Your Silence”
• Jaxin Kuhlman, Warren County Juvenile Detention Center: “Empathy”
• Olivia Griffith (finalist), DePaul Christo Ray High School: “One of Billions”
• Swita Aley (finalist), Fairfield High School: “Seek and Understand”