Mental Health America will honor Shawn Davis with its mpower award for her exceptional efforts to raise awareness of mental health issues among youth. The award will be presented at the closing night Awards Banquet of Mental Health America's 2010 Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., on June 12.

Shawn Davis, a 16 year old student at Jenks High School, outside of Tulsa, has been employed as the Student Coordinator at Mental Health Association in Tulsa (the Association) since November 2010. Since her hiring, she's been a prominent figure in the Tulsa area, specifically among youth. She has been actively involved in a number of programs.

"Shawn's efforts at such a young age are an inspiration to us all," said David Shern, Ph.D., president and CEO of Mental Health America. "Her vision, energy and activism are improving the lives of her fellow youth."

Shawn came to the Association with a passion to help youth understand and receive help for mental illness, like her own. As part of her own recovery, Shawn realizes that by helping others, she is helping herself continue to live a happy and fulfilling life. Surrounded by supportive family and friends, Shawn has a new perspective on life and strives to make the best out of each day. Shawn's steadfastness, intensity, work ethic, and bubbly personality make her one of the top leaders among Tulsa's youth. Her mission to fight stigma, promote mental health and wellbeing is a prominent fiber within Shawn's being.

mpower, a Mental Health America youth awareness campaign, is supported by hundreds of musicians nationwide and encourages teens and college-age adults to get help for and promote understanding of mental health conditions.

Source:
Mental Health America