Norwich Youth & Family Services is on a mission to start a conversation, and raise awareness around anxiety, mental health, and suicide prevention.

Since the start of the pandemic, anxiety and suicidal thoughts are on the rise nationwide. Unfortunately, there continues to be fear and stigma surrounding these feelings, preventing people from seeking support.

The documentary, “ANGST: RAISING AWARENESS AROUND ANXIETY” takes a look into what each of us can do to engage in a full and happy life.

This 56-minute documentary delves into all aspects of our society’s most common mental health challenges through candid interviews with kids and teens who discuss their anxiety, its impacts on their lives and relationships, as well as how they’ve found solutions and hope. The film also raises awareness that anyone can be impacted by and overcome anxiety. Among those interviewed was mental health advocate Michael Phelps, the most decorated athlete in Olympic history.

Children and young adults are also featured; for some of them, the “Angst” project marks the first time they are publicly sharing their experiences with anxiety.

“Our hope is that their candidness and bravery will inspire our community to do the same” Erin Haggan, coordinator of Norwich Youth and Family Services, said in a release.

Two other documentaries focusing on social media and cyberbullying, also will be available to the community with the support of Youth & Family Services in the coming months.

Each film comes with discussion guides, tip sheets and further resources. People can reach out to Norwich Youth & Family Services at ehaggan@cityofnorwich.org for more information.

The film can be accessed by scanning the QR code or going to the following link: https://watch.eventive.org/indieflix/play/613224ecdfe45a0044bda54d?m=1