Molly Smith

20 hour challenge for youth mental health

In order to raise funds for mental health charity 20Talk, on 29th March 2026, I'm taking on the challenge of sitting in a 2 metre square box for 20 hours with no technology and no talking. This challenge will be a small look into the day of someone struggling with mental health. All I will have is my own thoughts, a journal and a chair to sit on.

So why am I doing this?

We have all been touched in some way or another by the reality of mental health. Working within the education and care industry for me has opened me up to the realities of some young people’s lives, vulnerabilities and past experiences. I have worked with some unbelievably strong young people who have faced the realities of mental health, and they never cease to amaze me with the strength within their stories and bravery through such difficult times of their life. These young people will always hold a special place in my heart and I would love to show my support and raise funds for such a good cause. 

Structurally, the statistics are still alarming..

• Suicide still remains the leading cause of death for young people aged 15-44. 
• Only 2% of mental health funding goes towards prevention (Mental Health Commission 2022)

I'm completing the 20 Hours for 20Talk to turn these statistics around. Your contribution goes towards 20Talk's relatable prevention campaigns. They are a mental health charity that makes education cool and accessible, for young people by young people.

If you work within the mental health sector you will know how just how important and imperative preventative measures are.

By improving mental health literacy, removing harmful stigma, and encouraging professional help-seeking we are preventing people from getting people into crisis in the first place.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post and for donating to the cause. Hopefully this small challenge can help change someone’s life 🤍