Hi, I’m Janica! This is my first year as a member of the Southwest Shadow and I’m looking forward to writing news stories. In my free time, I enjoy reading and baking.
Despite the rise in mental health discussions among youth, many teenagers still struggle to move their openness in conversation into action, failing to seek professional mental health support.
Alternative indie band WILLIS released their EP “Locals 5” as part of their ongoing “Locals Only” series, exploring the complex emotions behind nostalgia and moving forward through relatable songwriting and surf and indie rock elements.
On Sept. 4 and 5, seniors took the civics exam, which is modeled after the U.S. citizenship test, in their Political Science and American Government classes.
![Many teenagers are reluctant to receive professional support for mental health. There are various factors that play into teens not getting the help that they need. “[Teenagers] might feel that even though they're talking to someone, they still don't feel heard,” freshman Jaeda Gonzales said. “I've noticed that a lot of times when I try to talk to someone about my problems, it doesn't really click [with] them. [It’s] like they're making up their own story about my story in their head and they're just getting it all twisted.”](https://southwestshadow.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/mental-help-graphic.jpg)
![The fear of missing out (FOMO) has been shown to have adverse effects on many teenagers’ confidence. FOMO is especially commonly experienced in teenagers. “I think the most frustrating part about experiencing FOMO is the fact that you can't necessarily do anything about it,” senior Branson Williams said. “You know your feelings aren't going to be known unless you say something to the people that you know may have left you out in a situation. [It’s] the fact that nobody's going to know how you really feel unless you tell them.”](https://southwestshadow.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/FOMO-Graphic-1.jpg)
![Working in the Student Success Office, Attendance Secretary Lordis Depiazza inputs a student’s absence excuse note. Students are required to bring an excuse note to the attendance office within three days of any absence. “Reminding students that being in school is important because it reflects towards your grades and being able to do any activities with the school,” Depiazza said. “[It] seems to get the students' attention about wanting to be in school.”](https://southwestshadow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/IMG_8313-1200x800.jpg)
