Mattie McNeil

My name is Mattie McNeil. I’m 15 years old and am a sophomore at Palmer High School. This past year I discovered one of my passions, rock climbing. I also enjoy documentaries and the process of filmmaking. However, sometimes exploring my passions isn’t easy. I’ve dealt with depression for a large part of my life, so I have some very personal experience with this topic. As I’ve gotten older, more people with depression and mental illness have come into my life. I feel strongly that the lack of discussion on mental illness does not prevent suicide, it only increases the stigmas and makes those suffering feel more alone. I fight through it every day, and I want to help others who struggle with mental illness to see that they are not alone and that getting help is nothing to be ashamed of. As an impact producer for the #SpeakingOurMinds campaign YDA has given me the opportunity to advocate for current issues while also exploring film and documentary making.