Red Flags

Erika’s Lighthouse programs are focused on raising awareness about adolescent depression and mental health for young people. At the core of their mission is the Red Flags Program, a comprehensive adolescent depression awareness program for middle school students.

The Red Flags curriculum provides materials for students, parents and teachers about the signs and symptoms of depression, and the benefits and techniques of early intervention. It encourages a school community to rise against stigma by freely talking about, and seeking help for this illness when needed. The program includes training school personnel to implement the program, an all staff awareness workshop, and seminars for parents and communities.

Teen Panel

The Teen Panel is a group of high school students that share personal stories about the everyday struggles of depression to other students. This “for teens, by teens” philosophy of learning is meant to challenge adolescents to look at the nature and impact of stigma, and to confront it. The goals of the program are to educate students on the warning signs, and what to do if you think someone you care about might have depression.

ELH Club at New Trier High School

Erika’s Lighthouse Club at New Trier High School is a group of teens that work together to improve mental health issues at school and in the community. The purpose of the club is to advocate for others with depression, to educate others about this treatable illness and to eliminate stigma, by encouraging others to speak freely about it. The club accomplishes this goal by organizing panel presentations, putting together awareness events and working with the school on projects related to mental health.