I have been involved in many diverse communities and organizations, including Peer, Health Exchange, Step Up, Digital Wellness Lab, MENTOR, Art of Living Foundation, and Harvard Ma, King Caring Common Project at Harvard Graduate School of Education.
As a result, I have heard so many personal stories and experiences of young people around me. I heard stories of loneliness, kids who felt bullied and not supported by those around them, as well as those who experience anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and more. These stories touched my heart, fed my passion, and made me act.
When I searched the web to find self-help books by youth, I was surprised that there were close to none. To fill this gap and add youth voices to self-help literature, I embarked on this book-writing journey with the support of my mentors Dr Emma Seppala (Yale University faculty member, Selling Author, and psychologist) and Professor Ronnie Newman (Director at the Art of Living Foundation and Faculty of Nova Southeastern University Lifelong Learning Institute). I enjoyed writing this book because it allowed me to amplify my voice and advocate for social issues through literature!
Peer Health Exchange (PHE) has furthered my understanding of health equity. I have learned more about the gaps and systematic barriers that exist in society. As a passionate advocate working to increase equity and improve social issues around me, the visionary mindset and change-oriented work at PHE fueled me to continue writing my book. Of course, the PHE community has also supported me so much in my book-writing journey— Dr. Glymph, CEO of PHE, has actively brought this book to the entire community. I am so grateful to be a part of this community. Thank you to everyone at PHE for your immense support!
I cannot wait for this book's future. I truly hope it continues to benefit as many people in society as possible—young people and all readers alike—parents, teachers, educators, and anyone else because we all need self-care and well-being in our lives!
Currently, the book has support from organizations including PHE, Youth180, and MENTOR, requests to be featured in local libraries and bookstores at retreat centers in Boone and LA, and my book has been featured on NBC. Check out & buy Pritika’s book here!