Online Safe Spaces

Online safe spaces in the year 2024 are crucial to fostering young people's need for validation and acceptance, something which they may not be receiving at home or in person spaces they occupy such as school, work, etc. There is a disproportionate rate of young people seeking out unhealthy coping mechanisms when they don’t have a safe place to turn to, vs when they do have a safe place to turn to, and while it’s not to be expected that these places be a substitute for therapy/professional treatment, for the short term, they make all the difference in ensuring that they have a place to go to where they can be themselves authentically without fear of judgment or persecution. 

Additionally, young people spend more time on social media than just about any other group in our population today, so them finding productive and helpful places to spend that time is crucial to helping our youth capitalize on the opportunities and potential for growth at their fingertips. In a day and age where identity and self expression is as diverse as it has ever been, having a place where you can experiment and find what works for you is crucial in fostering positive self worth which is critical in being a positive and productive member in society as you move up in the world with the additional confidence to be your authentic self in tow.

(written by Iris Smith, Outreach Coordinator)