Ross Szabo’s journey with mental health began at a young age. At just 11 years old, he visited his oldest brother in a psychiatric ward at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. Within the following year, he endured the deaths of two grandparents and a close friend. By 16, he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder with anger control issues and psychotic features. His struggles escalated in his senior year of high school when he was hospitalized after a suicide attempt. Later that same year, he had to take a leave of absence from American University due to a relapse.
Despite these hardships, Szabo returned to American University four years later, earning a B.A. in psychology, followed by an M.A. in educational psychology. At just 17, he began publicly sharing his story, realizing that speaking about his experiences was not only therapeutic for himself but also a powerful tool for helping others.
The Challenges of Mental Health Awareness for Youth
Szabo understands firsthand the barriers young people face when it comes to mental health awareness. The stigma surrounding mental health conditions often forces individuals to suppress their emotions, fearing judgment or misunderstanding. Many young people feel pressured to maintain a perfect image, leading them to believe they are alone in their struggles.
“A lot of youth don’t have the vocabulary to articulate their emotions,” Szabo explains. “They might not recognize that what they’re feeling goes beyond temporary stress. They need tools and language to express their struggles.”
The statistics are staggering—20-25% of individuals experience mental health challenges each year, with rising suicide rates underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues. Szabo emphasizes that early intervention is crucial, as mental health struggles often begin in adolescence and can shape a person’s entire developmental journey.
Additionally, many young people turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse, to manage their emotions. Szabo’s work focuses on equipping youth with healthier strategies, ensuring they understand that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but of strength.
Bringing Mental Health Awareness to Communities
Szabo has dedicated his career to reshaping the way mental health is taught and discussed. After serving in the U.S. Peace Corps from 2010 to 2012, he noticed a significant gap in mental health messaging upon his return. This realization led him to establish the Human Power Project in 2013, an organization that develops mental health curricula tailored to community needs.
His impact expanded in 2016 when he became a founding faculty member and wellness director at Geffen Academy at UCLA. There, he helped implement a groundbreaking mental health education program for students in grades 6-12, ensuring that mental health awareness became a central part of their education.
In 2021, Szabo launched the Mental Health Education Institute, which provides schools with best practices for integrating mental health education into their curriculums. His goal is to create a universal language for discussing mental health while encouraging educators to share their own stories—normalizing the conversation in school settings.
Beyond educational programs, Szabo reaches communities through keynote presentations. His talk, “Behind Happy Faces,” aims to dismantle mental health stigma, empower individuals to seek help, and provide essential education on the subject. His other presentations, “Mixed Drinks, Mixed Emotions” and “Creating a Life-Changing Connection,” address the intersection of substance abuse and mental health, as well as the vital role adults play in supporting youth mental well-being.
Szabo has also authored books to further extend his impact. His book, Behind Happy Faces: Taking Charge of Your Mental Health, has sold tens of thousands of copies and has been adopted as a Common Reading selection at various universities. Additionally, his children’s book, A Kids Book About Anxiety, was featured on Oprah’s Favorite Things List in 2020, solidifying its influence in helping young audiences understand their emotions.
Join the Conversation
Szabo’s work is a testament to the power of open dialogue and proactive mental health education. If you’d like to hear him speak in person, don’t miss the opportunity to attend the Together4Teens event on April 26th. This event is open to all ages and promises to be an inspiring and educational experience for attendees. Just click here to register!
By continuing to share his story and advocate for mental health education, Ross Szabo is helping redefine how young people understand and navigate their mental well-being—one conversation at a time.