Friday night at the Cary High School stadium became more than a typical high‑school football matchup. Panther Creek and Green Level High Schools teamed up for their third annual Mental Health Awareness game, turning the gridiron into a platform for families, students and the broader community to learn about mental‑health resources.
Players wear “Live for More” shirts to start conversation
During warm‑ups, both teams sported bright “Live for More” shirts, a visual reminder that mental‑health conversations are welcome and necessary. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) set up tables on the sidelines, offering brochures, crisis‑line numbers and guidance on how to seek help.
Student athletes speak out
Several players told WRAL that the event matters because mental‑health topics are often left unaddressed in sports locker rooms. “We just wanted to make sure people know when they come out here today what we’re supporting,” said Panther Creek senior Finn Stevenson. “Let people know that mental illness is not talked about enough. It’s OK to not be OK.”
Other athletes echoed Stevenson’s sentiment, noting that the pressure of competition can amplify feelings of anxiety or depression, and that open dialogue can save lives.
Community resources highlighted
Representatives from NAMI emphasized that help is available around the clock. They reminded attendees that anyone struggling with mental‑health concerns can call the NAMI Wake County hotline at 919‑848‑4490 or text “NAMI” to 741‑741 for confidential, free crisis counseling. Additional resources are listed on the organization’s website, www.nami.org.
Why the event matters for families
For many parents watching from the stands, the game offered a concrete example of how schools can partner with community organizations to address a topic that affects families across the nation. By integrating mental‑health education into a beloved local tradition—Friday night football—organizers hope to reduce stigma and encourage early intervention.
School officials said the partnership with NAMI will continue in future years, with plans to expand outreach to middle‑school athletes and to incorporate mental‑health workshops for coaches and parents.
Looking ahead
The success of this year’s game underscores the power of community‑driven initiatives that align with traditional family values and the well‑being of our youth. As more schools adopt similar programs, the hope is that every student will feel supported, both on the field and off.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
