Events

NAMI Keystone Pennsylvania’s annual Youth Mental Health Conference took place on Friday, February 7, 2025, at The Westin Pittsburgh. This event is one of the only conferences in the country specializing in children, adolescents, and transition age youth. It’s geared toward parents, caregivers, mental health professionals, educators, and students. Continuing Education Credits and Act 48 Credits will be offered. 

During the keynote presentation, The Clock is TikToking: The Urgent Need to Understand Social Media and Teen Suicide Risk, Jessica Hamilton, PhD, presented ongoing research leveraging technology and incorporating teen perspectives to better understand the role of social media in both risk and protection in suicidal thinking. She also discussed important considerations when working with teens about social media and practical tips to promote teen mental health.  



The afternoon plenary featured a conversation with NAMI’s Associate Medical Director, Dr. Christine Crawford, a leading child psychiatrist and author of NAMI’s second book, You Are Not Alone for Parents and Caregivers: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Your Child’s Mental Health. Dr. Crawford highlighted important takeaways from her book including how parents can navigate crucial mental health conversations with their children. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Charma D. Dudley, licensed psychologist and Associate Director of Behavioral Health Services at Carelon.

 

2025 Youth Mental Health Leadership Award Essay Contest

NAMI Keystone Pennsylvania’s Youth Mental Health Leadership Award recognizes the passion and courage of young leaders who are committed to fighting the stigma of mental health conditions, providing a safe community for peers to share their own mental health experiences, and empowering peers through education. This year, we honored two participants with awards. 

Read Connor's Essay
Read Sophia's Essay
Read all essay submissions



 

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