The Problem
A group notices that their friend needs help, so they decided to call the tiol Suicide Prevention Lifeline together.
Film
Underneath It All
A youth experiencing depression explains that wearing a mask allowed them to hide their emotions, but they noticed their symptoms and decided to reach out for help.
Say Something
“We don’t have to fight through problems by ourselves, and speaking up will relieve a lot of that weight. The film shows the interl thought process of the main character who struggles with depression and how his friends care about him and aren’t dismissive of his issues,” the filmmakers explained.
You Matter
“Stewart is a teege boy who feels as though he goes through life unseen. Through the kind words of those around him and a boost of confidence, he is able to see his true value,” the filmmakers shared.
Ever-Growing
A girl receives a kind message from a friend offering support. “Our main message is that the journey of bettering your mental health will never end and can always improve. It is ever-growing,” the filmmakers shared.
Lost
A girl struggling at school sits down with a friend who shares his positive experience with talking to a counselor.
Coach Veronica’s Journey
In our entry, we showcase the story of a high school water polo coach and her journey with mental health. Coach Veronica reveals her past struggles in battling her mental health issues with depression and ADHD and how water polo became a sanctuary for her. The tight-knit community of teammates helped support Coach Veronica through her struggles, and as she soon realized the impact that an uplifting community has on an athlete’s mental health, she became empowered to create a supportive environment for the next generation of water-polo athletes. Veronica has not only powered through her own struggles, but has taken her experiences and learned values to create an environment that is supportive for others as well.
Querido Mexico
“Querido Mexico” – Short Film is a poem I wrote to my home country – and overall the people in my situation – that contrasts the differences in cultures between Mexico City and Palo Alto, California. It is a thank you note to Mexico for keeping me grounded and for helping me not fall into the trap that is the toxic academic competition that goes on in my area’s schools. It goes over the importance of living in the moment, having time to be a child, and making choices for your own hapinness’ sake as it is your life and nobody elses. Living in misery to make other people happy can have grave consequences.
A Brick Wall
My film talks who my mental heath hero is and why they helped me.
Her Light
This category reminded me of my auntie Melea and I wanted to take it as a chance to honor her.