As a part of the Alumnae Perspectives Series, three alumnae from Generation S.O.S presented to the Upper School community to share resources and insights about mental health and addiction. The presenters included parent and alumna Robin Kiam Aviv ’79 P’17, ’21, who has established the organization with the goals of addressing stigma around discussing addiction and recovery, and helping young people share coping skills they’ve learned along the way. At the heart of the organization is a community of teens and young adults sharing their stories about mental health struggles and healthy solutions, in hopes of deterring students from turning to substances as a quick fix.

Aviv, Addie Ezersky ’19 and Alexandra Mishaan ’14 spoke to Upper School students about the early formations of addictive behavior, and how uncomfortable feelings like anxiety, depression and self image, among others, can lead to addiction. “People can be concerned with presenting perfection, when behind the doors things are far from perfect,” said Ezersky. After the presentation, Upper School students were able to continue discussing these topics in their advisory groups, allowing for thoughtful and deeper conversations.

Ezersky and Mishaan both hoped to help remove stigma by sharing personal insights and stories with students, and the benefits of an organization like Generation S.O.S that brings young people together. “Generation S.O.S allows you all to know how to reach your hand out; how to grab onto your friends, your peers, and to create a sense of stability and security during this time of being a teenager,” said Mishaan.