The hidden struggles with mental health in Wisconsin are revealing three main reasons behind the problem. Mark Becker, host of Rational Revolution, talks with writer and journalist Natalie Eibert, a mental health reporter for USA Today, about some surprising findings and the opportunity for improvement.

Eibert credits the transformative power of therapy. “Growing up, I felt like nothing I did was good enough,” she says. “But therapy provided a lifeline—a safe space to heal and grow.”

“Your efforts are unraveling both pain and resilience,” Becker says.

“The reports capture the raw truth associated with mental health and add in challenges like homelessness, and drug abuse. But you also urge your readers to confront these uncomfortable truths by sharing your own struggles with them.”

Eibert’s story is just one of many surrounding mental health. There are common struggles, but there’s agreement that some of the modern-day challenges put a lot of pressure on students.

• Bullying and social media: Eibert says her reporting finds bullying is persistent due to social media, and the 24/7 connection can make it harder to escape.
• Mental health in schools: The importance of having trusted adults has been emphasized in Eibert’s stories. She says both young and old consider it a significant factor in improving mental health. Yet schools struggle to provide access to services. And families say they often don’t have the money or resources to find support.
  
  “How do any kids get the help they need?” Eibert asks. “The answer demands attention and action.”
  
• Impact of Covid-19: Mental health continues to be impacted following the pandemic, especially for those who missed social interactions at school or work, along with increased pressure to catch up academically or on the job.

Becker shares his own family’s experience. “What kids are dealing with today is unimaginable,” he says. “And I know many parents are struggling with these realities.”

Luckily, Eibert finds some hope while digging into her mental health reporting. She’s learned teachers are receiving training to recognize the signs of mental distress among their students. But there needs to be solutions in the community, especially if schools are closed for the summer.

“We all have to be in this together. Mental health is not a partisan issue, it’s a human issue.”

Natalie Eibert, USA Today mental health reporter

“Through your reporting and advocacy, you’re inviting us to confront this issue,” Becker responds. “It has to be a shared opportunity for healing, resilience, and connection.”

Rational Revolution with host Mark Becker airs Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Find it on your local station across the Civic Media radio network. Download the free Civic Media app so you can listen anywhere.