150 high school students from Indianapolis gathered for a conversation about mental health during an event called “Under the Surface.” Hosted by the Indianapolis Colts, USA Swimming, and Indiana Sports Corp, the event took place before the U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials. The students had the opportunity to listen to a panel discussion featuring Olympic gold medalist Lilly King, U.S. swimmer Ashley Twichell, Colts cornerback Kenny Moore, and Colts Vice Chair and Owner Kalen Jackson.

Lilly King, an Indiana native who won a gold medal in breaststroke at the 2016 Olympics, shared that she found it helpful to know that others, even those performing at the highest level, struggle with similar feelings. A student from Warren Central High School named Aileen Stockdale mentioned how eye-opening it was to see herself in the panelists and how mental health issues are similar in both high schoolers and adults.

The students who participated in this event were part of Bring Change to Mind, a national organization with chapters in schools across Indiana. This organization aims to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illnesses by promoting open dialogue and education about mental health issues among young people. Stockdale said that she joined this organization to seek help in finding herself while also assisting others on their journey towards healing and self-discovery.

Overall, this event provided a valuable opportunity for these local high school students to learn more about mental health and connect with others who have faced similar challenges. Through open dialogue and education, they were able to break down stigmas and create a supportive community where everyone feels heard and understood.