Damini is a high school student right here in Southwest Florida who began struggling with mental health issues when she was in first grade. At a tender age of six, she was diagnosed with anxiety. By middle school, she was struggling with anger and depression, which led to self-harm. ultimately, she was deemed a danger to herself and others under the Baker Act. A frightening event for her and those who love her, there was one silver lining. It led to her finally getting the kind of therapy she needed...But was it necessary for Damini to undergo years of suffering and face death by suicide? Experts say no.

Damini is just one of many children who suffered in silence for too long. Golisano Children's Hospital has seen an increase in Baker Acts primarily among teen girls. Suicide was already the second leading cause of death in Florida, but that was before COVID-19 reared its ugly head. We know there are more children who either don't know where to turn for help or are waiting for services due to a sever shortage of providers. The waiting list for behavioral health services at Golisano Children's Hospital is currently eight months long.

Kids' Minds Matter is working to transform Southwest Florida into a community where early intervention is possible. Today, Damini is partnering with Kids' Minds Matter and courageously sharing her story. Her passion is evident in these words: "If I can help just one person, it's all worth it."

With the help of private donations, Kids' Minds Matter was able to reduce the waiting list for children's mental and behavioral health services in Southwest Florida and expand programs for youth and families, and support is necessary for us to do it again!

"More than two-thirds of parents who sought help since the start of the pandemic said they had witnessed a decline in their child's emotional well-being (72%), behavior (68%), and physical health due to decreased activities/exercise (68%)." - Child Mind Institute's 2020 Children's Mental Health Report.

No child should have to wait...Be part of the solution by giving today!