Young adults today face a multitude of challenges that can lead to mental health struggles like depression and anxiety. For many, a safe, supportive and healing environment can be pivotal to their well-being, yet it’s often extremely challenging to find.
One nonprofit that’s dedicated to providing such a haven is Garrett’s Space, an initiative designed to offer a nurturing community for those ages 18 to 28 years old who are struggling with depression and anxiety.
The importance of a supportive environment
Young adulthood can be a time of significant transition and heightened vulnerability to mental health challenges. The pressures of academics, career choices, social media, societal expectations and personal identity can lead to overwhelming stress and emotional turmoil for many young people.
Garrett’s Space was founded by Scott and Julie Halpert in memory of their son, Garrett Halpert, who died by suicide in 2017 at the age of 23.
Described by his parents as kind, athletic, quick-witted and compassionate, Garrett was always ready to listen to others. Despite being surrounded by a loving family and loyal friends, Garrett struggled with his mental health and felt alone in his struggles since he had no one in his life who could relate to what he was going through.
Unfortunately, this is common, and many young adults feel the same way.
“Garrett was always there for others, and the only person he was ever hard on was himself,” Scott said. “Garrett’s Space is creating an environment where young adults, with the support of their peers, can help to put their challenges into perspective and regain desperately needed hope.”
The Halperts said Garrett craved a supportive, holistic place where he could heal, but at that time, no such place existed. After Garrett’s passing, they were determined to change that for other young adults facing similar struggles. They created Garrett’s Space to bridge the gaps in treatment options for young adults experiencing mental health challenges.
The nonprofit offers virtual support groups and monthly in-person programming that promotes wellness, healing, self-worth and resilience for young adults aged 18 to 28. The nonprofit is also going to build a non-medical residential center and plans to break ground on the project soon.
Essential elements of a healing environment
Garrett’s Space offers:
- Safety and stability: A core aspect of Garrett’s Space is its dedication to offer a safe and stable environment. For young adults facing depression and anxiety, to have a secure space where they can express themselves freely, without fear of judgment or discrimination, is essential. This supportive foundation allows individuals to focus on their healing without the burden of external stressors.
- Peer support and connection: Garrett’s Space strongly believes in the power of peer support. Young adults can benefit immensely from connecting with others who have faced similar mental health challenges. By sharing their experiences and coping strategies, they find both practical advice and emotional comfort, which helps them feel less isolated and more understood.
- Access to resources: Healing environments often provide access to a variety of resources, including mental health professionals, movement activities and self-care tools. Garrett’s Space groups equip young adults with tools and coping skills to manage their mental health more effectively.
- Empowerment and growth: Opportunities for personal growth are another vital aspect. Garrett’s Space encourages young adults to engage in activities that promote self-discovery and personal development. When they focus on strengths and interests, individuals can build confidence and resilience.
The Halperts envision a wellness campus and non-medical residential center that will grow into a sanctuary and provide a nurturing environment for young adults to heal and find support.
Residents will be invited to participate in a variety of evidence-informed wellness activities that will allow them to pursue a healthy lifestyle and better withstand life’s stressors. These will include meditation, yoga, art, music, poetry workshops and nutritious cooking. The center will also provide group support, coping strategies for relationship challenges, family support and peer connections. The typical stay is expected to last about four weeks, with day programming available concurrently.
The physical space will be set in a tranquil, nature-immersed location in Washtenaw County and feature walking paths, gardens and wooded areas.
Indoor facilities will include community spaces, a kitchen, quiet rooms, and small and large rooms for individual and group support, facilitated by mental health professionals. There will also be activity rooms to pursue beneficial activities like music, art and movement.
Outdoor amenities will include gathering spaces like an amphitheater, fire pit, recreational courts, gardens and walking trails. Garrett’s Space has hired a world class architect, MASS Design, which has a specialty in trauma-informed principles to promote resilience and connection with nature in a healing environment.
Support young adults in your community
While nonprofits like Garrett’s Space play a significant role, there are many ways to support young adults in your own community. Here are some recommendations from the Garrett’s Space team:
- Create safe spaces: Whether through community centers, support groups or online forums, creating spaces where young adults feel safe to share their experiences can make a huge difference. Ensure these spaces are inclusive and non-judgmental to all.
- Foster peer connections: Encourage young adults to build relationships with others who have faced similar challenges. This can help them feel understood and less isolated.
- Promote affordable and accessible resources: Help young adults to find mental health resources like local therapists, support groups or educational materials to support their well-being.
- Encourage open dialogue: By normalizing discussions about depression and anxiety, you can help reduce stigma and make it easier for young adults to seek help and share their experiences.
- Provide emotional support: Offer empathy, patience and a listening ear. Your emotional support can make a significant difference in helping young adults feel less alone on their journey.
Garrett’s Space exemplifies how a compassionate, well-structured environment can be a lifeline for those who face mental health challenges. By offering a space where young adults can connect with peers who understand their experiences, Garrett’s Space fosters a sense of belonging and validation.
The community-based approach helps individuals realize they are not alone in their struggles, which helps to reduce feelings of isolation and hopelessness.
Seeking help
If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis or seeking assistance, click or tap here to access multiple well-respected mental health resources, or call or text 988.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a hotline for individuals in crisis or for those looking to help someone else. To speak with a trained listener, call 988. Visit 988lifeline.org for crisis chat services or for more information.
Through the generous support of the community, Garrett’s Space can address the gaps in treatment options for young adults struggling with mental health challenges. Click or tap here to learn more about ways you can support the cause.
Visit the Garrett’s Space website to learn more about the nonprofit.