Student Experiences: Regan Faith Hawkins

Regan's story is a testament to the necessity of comprehensive support systems, including the invaluable contributions of Community School Coordinators like Patty, and the essential resources provided by organizations such as the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County and many other community organizations (UWABC).

From the moment the interview started it was evident Regan was ready to talk about the topic of mental health. “My superpower is knocking down that wall that holds me back. Just having the ability to know that I can knock it down and think positive but also knowing that it’s okay to be hurt by those things too,” Regan shared. Her words, which seemed beyond her age in wisdom, highlight a profound understanding of resilience—acknowledging pain while maintaining the strength to persevere.

Regan candidly discussed the challenges she faces, including rumors and the struggle to find her place in the school community. “I get rumored about and stuff like that. I’ve not really had a school life. But, like, I keep my head up and keep going,” she explained.

Patty, the North Buncombe Middle School Coordinator, plays a pivotal role in providing support that helps Regan to persist through unsavory moments at school. Regan noted, “If I don’t like my outfit or like I just don’t feel confident, I know Mrs. Patty will always have something here that I could try on and see. Also, for kids that are in need like, it’s pretty secretive. Like, she doesn’t really tell anyone what you get. They are always welcome to people too, you know. I feel like that makes a difference in the whole school too.” This discreet assistance helps maintain the dignity of students while meeting their needs, fostering a sense of security and belonging.

The impact of such support extends beyond material needs. Regan described the school as “like a second home, especially when you know there's drama in the family. It kinda relieves also like when you can just go in these little rooms or like just go to a teacher, and they hang out with you and stuff. It’s just really supportive. Like the teachers don’t pound you down, you know, they kinda motivate you to keep your head up and that’s it’s ok.”

Despite the support she has received, Regan emphasizes that many students remain "lost" due to a lack of guidance and healthy home environments. “There's a lot that goes on here [at the school]. There are a lot of teens that are lost. And part of that is they don’t have a healthy home life, or they do not have the confidence of talking to an adult. They don’t know who to talk to, where to go. So they are just lost. They’re stuck, and I, I feel that place, you know, it’s hard,” she said. Her words have been echoed my many student before her and bring the mental health crisis of our youth to the forefront of the conversation.

UWABC has made significant strides in addressing these needs through initiatives like the School-Based Health Centers, which provide both physical and mental health services. Regan underscored the importance of mental health support, saying, “Not having a waiting list for therapy in school, but having a therapist that could take girls or guys or mixed or whatever. Just having a little group time, like circle time, where people can feel comfort or enough to tell what they go through and what they need help with.” Such resources are vital for students seeking help and a sense of community.

Regan’s call to action is clear: “I feel like adults, personally, need to look out for the younger generation. I mean, mental health is a big thing right now. And I know doctors and hospitals look at that. But adults, adults really don’t think of that because it’s a scary thing to think about. But, like, I feel like adults need to look out for signs, you know.” Her words remind us of our collective responsibility to be vigilant and supportive of the younger generation.

To everyone in the United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County network and beyond, reflect on how you can support the mental health and well-being of students. Whether through direct involvement, advocacy, or simply offering a listening ear, your engagement can make a profound difference. Together, we can ensure that every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to overcome their challenges.

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