#United States #mental health #Denver #Action for Healthy Kids #TrustEd

Action for Healthy Kids Launches TrustEd

On September 19, 2025, Action for Healthy Kids (AFHK) announced the launch of TrustEd, a free online platform aimed at enhancing connections between adults and youths. This initiative is timely and vital as mental health concerns among teenagers are on the rise, highlighting the importance of trusted adults in their lives.

What is TrustEd?

TrustEd serves as a comprehensive resource hub designed to provide educators, school staff, and parents with tools and training to foster better relationships with young people. Accessible at trusteducation.org, the platform offers both virtual and on-demand training alternatives tailored to equip adults with the necessary skills to support youth effectively. In-person training sessions are also being conducted across Colorado.

The Need for Such Initiatives

Recent findings from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (2023) reveal that approximately 40% of high school students experience ongoing feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Alarmingly, a 2024 study indicated that many youths are resorting to vaping as a coping mechanism, often driven by stress. TrustEd seeks to combat these issues by offering practical, trauma-informed strategies that enable adults to assist young people in developing healthier coping skills to navigate their concerns.

Training Development and Community Input

The training modules available on TrustEd were developed through collaborations with local organizations such as UpRise and Abundant Black Health, ensuring that the youth's voices and perspectives are integrated at each stage of the process. According to Anais Murphy, Senior Manager of Mental Health and Wellness at AFHK, engaging young people in the training development process guarantees that the resources are relevant, impactful, and truly considerate of their needs.

Key Features of TrustEd

TrustEd offers several important features, including:

• - Virtual and On-demand Training: Accessible training for educators and youth workers, focusing on ways to connect and engage with youths meaningfully.
• - Resourceful Blog: A dedicated blog offers insights on navigating the teenage years, discussing critical issues such as mental health and the influence of vaping.
• - Community-driven Development: Input from community youth ensures the relevance and effectiveness of the training resources.

Rob Bisceglie, CEO of AFHK, remarked, "Now more than ever, youth need trusted adults who can step in, build meaningful connections, and create safe, healthy environments." TrustEd seeks to empower adults with practical resources to address the pressing mental health crisis affecting youths today.

Future Aspirations for TrustEd

While TrustEd’s current offerings focus on Colorado residents, AFHK has plans to expand this critical programming nationwide in the future. With its data-driven approach and commitment to community empowerment, TrustEd aims to make a significant impact on the well-being of youth across the United States.

For more information about the TrustEd program, visit TrustEd, and take the first step towards making a difference in the lives of young people.