Discussion Questions
Pilar describes her experience as a bright, young teenager going through all the stages of senior year; she gives every indication that on graduation she was ready to fly. But the reality is quite different. She says, “I began my new chapter in the big city and I was alone. And that’s all it was; that’s all I felt.”
At this moment in the video you see Pilar, masked up, facing the camera.
- What does the image convey?
- What is your response to Pilar’s statement?
Pilar goes on to describe the acute depression that colors her days in New York. Although the pandemic has subsided, recent studies show that teenagers, especially girls, are experiencing much higher levels of depression today.
- Why do you think girls are experiencing higher levels of depression?
- Do you think the pandemic is still a factor? Why or why not?
Pilar found her way through depression with the help of friends, family and gardening, but many young people are still struggling—with mental health, with school, with relationships and financial problems.
- As a society, are we offering enough support to young people?
- What are some ways a community can help?
- What can families, who may still be experiencing other pandemic-related problems, do to support their teens and young adults?
