Day of Hope Puts Focus on Teen Mental Health

Planners of the Roswell Day of Hope have learned that hope can come in many forms for the more than a thousand guests who attend the event each year. For some families it’s the joy of watching their children take part in the games and entertainment in the lively Kid Zone. For those with financial worries, it’s the peace of receiving medical checkups, shoes, and haircuts for the family, all of it free of charge in a festive outdoor setting.

But for parents of teenagers, hope can also come in the form of help and information as anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts have continued at high levels since the end of the COVID-19 lockdowns. That is why organizers of the annual event have partnered with local non-profits and businesses to help loved ones understand why teenagers might be struggling, what signs loved ones should look for, and what they can do to help.

“We recognize there are many causes of depression,” explained Brenda Orlans, who heads up the event. “One of the culprits for the spike in teen depression is technology,” she added. “Social media, isolation, and less sleep all have contributed. Communities around the world are hurting, and Roswell is no exception.”

The fifteenth annual Roswell of Day of Hope will be held Saturday, Sept. 21, from noon to 4 p.m. at Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill Street, with no admission charge. As summer temps give way to fall, there will be something for everyone at the event with music and local coffee flavors to enjoy along with yummy food for sale from food trucks.

A volunteer recalled that more than a hundred guests last year received new looks free of charge from the professional stylists at Belleza con Esperanza, the on-site pop-up salon. Aptly, it’s a name that means “Beauty with Hope.”

“I’m excited to meet and serve as many guests as we can at this year’s event too,” said Carson Weitnauer, who serves as the hair-services team leader for the Day of Hope.

The long-standing community tradition is organized by Hope Roswell, a nondenominational network of church leaders and pastors who seek to meet the needs of the community in a variety of ways throughout the year. “It is the only event of its kind that I am aware of that includes churches, businesses, non-profits, and the city,” said Tomme Stevenson, a longtime volunteer. “It is a testimony to both the need within the community and the dedication of so many people and organizations that make this possible.”

Free medical screenings will also be available as will pairs of new shoes while supplies last. Free dental screenings will be available for guests ages twelve and under.

For more information on the Day of Hope, go to www.hoperoswell.org.