What if a board game could start conversations about the things teenagers often struggle to talk about? In this episode of Voices del Valle, Central Union High School senior Sarah Abigail Vera shares how her experiences with depression, anxiety, OCD, and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic inspired her to create High School The Game. Designed around the idea that happiness—not money—is the ultimate goal, the game reflects the realities of high school life through relationships, academic pressure, sports, peer influence, and unexpected life events.

Through candid discussions with fellow students, a school-based mental health specialist, and school administrators, this episode examines the choices teenagers face and the impact those choices can have on their mental health and well-being. More than a story about a game, this is a conversation about resilience, empathy, and the importance of creating spaces where young people feel safe discussing the challenges they face every day.

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CREDITS

Episode 204: The Less Depressed, The Better

Hosted by: Sarah Abigail Vera and Edison Camargo

Edited and produced by: Dr.Thomas Tacke

Episode Music by: SpartanSound Productions

Credits Music by: Emmanuel Twilley

Technical and operational support provided by KPBS Technical Producer / Sound Designer, Adrian Villalobos, KPBS Audio Operations Assistant Rebecca Chacon, and KPBS Director of Audio Programming and Operations Lisa Jane Morrisette.

This programming is partially made possible in part by the KPBS Explore Content Fund.