LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) – Louisiana ranks the unhealthiest state in the country and is often ranked highest for the occurrence of depression, according to America’s Health Rankings report.
The report found that arthritis and depression are the most common health issues among Louisiana adults.
“I’ve noticed depression and anxiety, especially in Southwest Louisiana, particularly in the grades that the Junior League is hoping to focus on for this event,” Jillian Cormier, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters, said. “I hope that it gives them the confidence and the ability to know that there is a safe space and there are safe local experts, whenever they need to ask for help.”
The Junior League of Lake Charles and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana are addressing the issue through “The Caring and Keeping of You” health literacy event, designed specifically for girls in fourth through seventh grade.
The event will promote physical fitness and create a safe space for young women to discuss mental health and their bodies.(kplc)
“This kind of group of middle school-aged girls, maybe they feel like they’re too old for one thing and too young for something else,” Meagan Raines, community director for the Junior League, said. “We were really looking for something that could target that age range, where it’s really a safe space.”
The program aims to create open conversations about girls’ health across multiple areas.
“This is just an opportunity for us to target young girls in like fourth to seventh grade. To come and for us to talk to them about all the ways to think of their best health,” Raines said. “That can be in nutrition, that can be in exercise, but that can also be in mental health and mental awareness and body positivity.”
The event will promote physical fitness and create a safe space for young women to discuss mental health and their bodies.
“The Caring and Keeping of You” event will be on Saturday, Jan. 17, for girls in fourth through seventh grade. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana office, located at 4135 Common St.
Girls must register to attend. To register, click HERE.
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