Strategies to Improve Mental Health of Independent Living Youth

Project Summary:

In Wisconsin, 70% of foster children have mental and behavioral health needs but face barriers to access care. Of teens in the foster care system, 42% have at least one mental health disorder, nearly one-third have two disorders, and one-fifth have three. Research has shown that, for youth who are in the foster care system, mentoring can reduce isolation and levels of anxiety, increase self-confidence, and support their progress.

To improve access to high-quality mental and behavioral health resources for independent living (IL) youth and young adults in 12 Wisconsin counties, Workforce Resource Inc. will introduce a pilot program focused on providing mental health support through trained-peer specialist mentoring, establishing access for youth to online mental health counseling, and supporting youth and young adult mental health medication regimens. Combined, these strategies will mitigate mental health issues experienced by IL youth and young adults.

Community Partners: Access to Independence, Inc., Salvation Army