Jewish teens from across Houston gathered for the first-ever THRIVE Teen Mental Health Day, an event dedicated to promoting self-care, emotional well-being, and community support. The initiative, led by local teen leader Marz Lazar, aims to provide a safe space for high school students to step away from the pressures of daily life, learn coping strategies, and connect with peers facing similar challenges.
THRIVE was born out of a conversation during a J-Serve meeting more than a year ago, when Lazar envisioned a program that would address the growing mental health needs of Jewish teens. The event was organized by BBYO and Alexander Jewish Family Service, with support from the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston and a grant from the Jewish Federation’s Impact Fund.
“I wanted THRIVE to be a space where we could step away from judgment, learn valuable tools, and foster kindness within our community,” said Lazar. “As teens, we often fear being vulnerable. I hope this event encourages teens to talk about their feelings and mental health honestly, without fear of being a burden.”
The day’s activities kicked off with a keynote address from Carly Coons of The Blue Dove Foundation, a national organization focused on raising awareness of mental health issues within Jewish communities. Coons stressed the importance of recognizing mental health challenges and shared strategies for resilience and self-care specifically geared toward teens.
After the keynote, attendees participated in small, interactive breakout sessions that explored various aspects of well-being. Workshops included activities such as gratitude journaling, therapy dog sessions, fitness, crafting, and cooking, all aimed at equipping teens with practical tools for managing stress and improving mental health.
“I had an amazing time at THRIVE Day,” said Samantha Lepow, an 11th-grade participant. “I spent my session learning how to embroider and interacting with therapy dogs. It was a fun, relaxing way to spend my Sunday, and I’m grateful I attended. I’d love to help expand this event next year—it’s such an important experience for our community.”
Lazar highlighted the importance of mental health care for teens, noting that “Teens today face immense pressure, whether it’s in school, relationships, or extracurricular activities. THRIVE is about giving ourselves permission to step back and prioritize our well-being.”
The need for such events is evident. According to the World Health Organization, one in seven adolescents globally faces a mental health disorder, whether diagnosed or not. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 42% of teens experience persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. However, research indicates that having effective self-care strategies and trusted adult resources can bolster resilience and protect youth from mental health struggles.
As the event came to a close, teens walked away with valuable mental health resources and a strengthened sense of community within the Jewish youth network. With the inaugural event proving to be a success, organizers and participants are hopeful that THRIVE will continue to grow and serve as a vital space for ongoing conversations about mental health for years to come.
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