Alarming statistics among Piatt County youth has prompted a collaboration of area organizations to tackle the issues of mental health among teens. 

Tony Kirkman at the Piatt County Mental Health Center says alarming returns on the Illinois Youth Survey prompted him and the Mental Health Center to try to address mental health among teens in the area. He explains they found an alarming number of students had thoughts of hurting themselves or even suicidal thoughts.

According to Kirkman, the collaboration focuses on working together to tackle mental health. They are since worked with three schools in Piatt County to place a therapist in the schools once a week.

Kirkman thanks the Superintendents and school boards for their willingness to work with them. He points out, their therapists have engaged with around 24 kids in the various buildings.