Youth-Led Mental Health Advocacy | Episode 141 with Isabelle Blackwood
Mon Feb 02 2026
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Reagan McDonald interviews Isabelle Blackwood, a passionate advocate for mental health and prevention work. Isabelle shares her personal journey, including the challenges she faced growing up, her involvement in Y-Link, and the various projects she has spearheaded to address mental health issues in her community. The conversation highlights the importance of support, personal experiences, and the transformative power of advocacy work, especially in youth-led initiatives.
Takeaways
Isabelle's journey into prevention began at a young age.
Personal experiences with loss and mental health shaped her advocacy.
Y-Link provided a platform for youth to engage in prevention work.
Community events like Fifth Quarters promote safe spaces for youth.
Breaking down stigma around mental health is crucial for advocacy.
Isabelle's focus on farmers' mental health highlights a unique issue.
Conferences have been transformative for personal and professional growth.
Support from peers and mentors is vital in prevention work.
Advocacy work can significantly improve mental health and well-being.
Finding a passionate partner in advocacy can amplify impact.
For feedback, questions and new episode ideas...
jake@vive18.com
instagram.com/vive18_
More
In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Reagan McDonald interviews Isabelle Blackwood, a passionate advocate for mental health and prevention work. Isabelle shares her personal journey, including the challenges she faced growing up, her involvement in Y-Link, and the various projects she has spearheaded to address mental health issues in her community. The conversation highlights the importance of support, personal experiences, and the transformative power of advocacy work, especially in youth-led initiatives. Takeaways Isabelle's journey into prevention began at a young age. Personal experiences with loss and mental health shaped her advocacy. Y-Link provided a platform for youth to engage in prevention work. Community events like Fifth Quarters promote safe spaces for youth. Breaking down stigma around mental health is crucial for advocacy. Isabelle's focus on farmers' mental health highlights a unique issue. Conferences have been transformative for personal and professional growth. Support from peers and mentors is vital in prevention work. Advocacy work can significantly improve mental health and well-being. Finding a passionate partner in advocacy can amplify impact. For feedback, questions and new episode ideas... jake@vive18.com instagram.com/vive18_