As much as schools, parents, and the media talk about anxiety and the imperative to support the mental health of young adults, anxiety is still front and center as an issue for teens. In her honest and candid talk, high school student Raci Levine shares how when anxiety surprises her and catches her off guard, she has found a friend in writing - a tool that helps to take the edge off and allows her to live her life. Raci Levine is currently a junior at Mira Costa High School. She is passionate about writing and runs the Features section for La Vista, the school’s newspaper. Raci is also the president of Mira Costa’s American Jewish Cultural Club where she is committed to raising awareness and encouraging diversity throughout the campus.

Raci volunteers with the philanthropic group Sandpipers Junior and has completed UCLA business and entrepreneurial courses. Whichever college Raci ends up attending, she hopes to travel the world and take on many new adventures. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx