The US Centers for Disease Control reports a significant rise in adolescent mental health concerns over the past five years. Even before the shutdown due to COVID-19, the number of teenagers reporting depression symptoms was on the rise. Since 2019, there has been a considerable spike in sadness and hopelessness among adolescents—from 31% of teens to 42% as of 2021. More recently, the Department of Health and Human Services reported that about 1 in every five adolescents ages 12 to 17 (nearly 5 million teens) suffered from a major depressive episode.
The concern over adolescent mental health prompted the US Surgeon General to declare a teen mental health crisis. These numbers show that now, more than ever, we need trained professionals to serve a generation of youth who struggle with a growing mental health crisis. Amy Dolnick is one of the volunteers stepping up to offer her time and expertise to local children through After School Matters.
Dolnick volunteers at the Michael and Karyn Lutz Center in Belmont Cragin, providing essential mental health resources to our teens. In her seven years of service, Amy has recognized the growing mental health concerns among young people and ensured thousands of teens have access to free therapy.
“My role at ASM is to provide a safe space for the teens to come and feel comfortable to talk about their struggles,” Dolnick said. “Everyone has obstacles in life — and often feels stuck, sad, or alone. Hopefully, I can help the teens feel seen and heard and teach them some tools so that they can learn to manage their lives in a healthier way. I am grateful every day for this volunteer position. The teens I see are truly resilient, strong, and hopeful.”
With 23 years of experience as a therapist, Amy focuses on providing teens with coping skills. Whether through breathing techniques or creative outlets like drawing and journaling, she aims to help young people manage their challenges and build resilience.
“We love Amy! We are so thankful for her dedication, love, and patience with our teens. She allows them to share their life experiences in a safe and supportive environment,” shared Rosy Aguilar, ASM Program Director.
Amy’s work at the Lutz Center highlights the significance of therapy for teens. In a supportive environment, young people understand they are not alone in their struggles. They gain the strength to face their challenges and find community and shared experience, which helps them navigate through tough times.
“My favorite experience at ASM is helping the teens,” Dolnick shared. “Selfishly, when I have time, I always like to walk around the building to each program, see the programs, and try to get to know the teens. Personally, it’s fun to actually participate in the programs; for example, try and create a mosaic piece and realize how gifted these teens are and how wonderful the teachers are, too! And that as much as I love mosaics, I lack the talent that these teens clearly have!”
One key aspect of Amy’s work is creating a safe space for Lutz Center teens to express themselves without fear of judgment. This environment is vital for their mental well-being, allowing them to explore their emotions and develop healthy coping methods in a supportive space.
ASM has prioritized providing access to free therapy and mental health resources through partnerships with therapists like Amy and institutions like Adler University, which supplies additional counselors and instructors.
Amy’s volunteer work at the Lutz Center contributes to a community that supports the well-being of young people. This collaboration highlights the importance of accessible mental health resources and their positive impact on teenagers.
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“Amy’s commitment to our teens is a powerful example of the positive impact a caring adult can have on the lives of our youth,” shared Mary Ellen Caron, ASM CEO. “We are thankful for the expert guidance she gives our teens, instilling in them the confidence and tools they need to face the future with hope.”
How To Help
After School Matters is a nonprofit organization that annually supports up to 19,000 teens across the Chicago area with paid opportunities to develop their talents while gaining critical skills for work, college, and beyond.
Your donation will help After School Matters continue to connect young adults with quality programs to help them reach their full potential.
