Lockdowns Produce Widespread Depression in High School Students

R.Jay, Senior, Aiea student and daughter of YFC staff (2022)

Youth for Christ Hawaii has been on Aiea campus this school year after having a hiatus because of the coronavirus. Getting back on campus was crucial. Before the lockdowns, we had a large group of freshmen boys who would come to club faithfully. Then, when everything got shut down, I wasn’t sure if we would ever get back to how things were. Now, we are back in Aiea and I’m happy to see familiar faces. 

     After club this past Wednesday, I asked one of the students to share what he was struggling with. He said, “I’m not sure I know how to put it into words.” Then, almost in tears, he said that he is going through depression. He thought he was okay handling it, but realized he needed help. I was able to talk with him and pray for him and his situation. He shared that when everything shut down and he didn’t have anywhere to go or talk to anyone. His way of handling was to shut down and isolate. He said he was so thankful to have YFC back on campus, to have people to open up to.

                   -Doug, Campus Minister at Aiea High School YFC Club