Local teen has message for peers, parents about mental health

Olivia Cafiero, 17, shines on stage.

She’s a gifted dancer, who earned a spot at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. When she’s not in school she’s at her dance studio.

“It definitely brings me happiness to perform and be able to share this beautiful art form with the world,” said Cafiero.

While it brings her happiness, it can also bring anxiety.

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For her, it started in middle school.

Her mom gave her permission to speak with Action News Jax for mental health awareness month and share her own challenges.

“Around my seventh grade year I began to develop a lot of insecurities around dance mostly because I was dancing with such amazing dancers,” said Cafiero.

By ninth grade, Cafiero began harming herself and ended up in the hospital.

“I actually went to Wolfson Children’s Hospital my parents sent me there to work on all of my issues and things,” said Cafiero.

Now a junior in high school, Cafiero is doing much better thanks to the support system around her, including school counselors.

But her story is not unique.

According to the Journal of Pediatrics, suicide attempts by poisoning have doubled among kids younger than 19, rising from 40,000 attempts in 2000 to almost 80,000 in 2018.

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Cafiero said parents need to play a big role.

“You have to definitely be cautious of the signs and be careful looking out for them,” said Cafiero.

Today, the challenges continue but Cafiero said there are simple things she can do to fight the dark thoughts.

“I have made sure every day to spend at least five minutes doing something that I know I genuinely love,” she said.

She said she’d like to see more groups of people her age where teens can feel comfortable sharing their stories.

If you know anyone who is harming themselves or have suicidal thoughts you can call the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

Cox Media Group