As a Frontier Regional student, I think that mental health is one of the most important things that we can keep an eye on in our communities. Studies show that stressful politics take a toll on mental health, with symptoms anywhere from extremely unhealthy stress to loss of sleep to suicidal thoughts. Some people are sometimes unable to stop thinking about politics or cannot refrain from making social media posts that are intemperate. Unfortunately, mental health is not often taken seriously. Stress levels can be lower in teens by lowering the voting age. The age of 18 is when young adults assume more rights and responsibilities and often move away from home, and it can be extremely stressful for them. Lowering the voting age to 16 will reduce the stress around voting for the first time and help young people see and understand how they can make a difference in their communities and in their world. Mental health will get better, and the entire community will benefit because more people will want to vote and to make choices regarding their hometowns.

Eleanor Wade

South Deerfield