Lifelong Learning and Youth Behavioral Health in Granville and Vance Counties, North Carolina

Lifelong learning supports the continuous personal growth and development of individuals throughout their lifetime. Granville and Vance Counties have rich and complex histories. Marred by redlining and gerrymandering, these communities’ educational systems have been impacted severely to this day. Mental health crises within these counties have continued to interfere with students’ abilities to succeed in courses, often resulting in lower graduation rates and a lack of interest in pursuing higher education. Exploring solutions aims to focus on the lack of awareness by parents and school staff and provide students with intervention methods for their ongoing mental health concerns. Supporting community needs by circumventing barriers and promoting facilitators will be vital to ensuring the short and long-term effectiveness of designed solutions. Encouraging lifelong learning by addressing mental health concerns among youth in Granville and Vance Counties can expand educational options and advance career opportunities.