A remarkable group of students at Mercer County High School is making noise, not with cheers or chants, but with a much-needed conversation about mental health. Gray Matter, a peer to peer, student-led organization, is rewriting the script on how young people approach mental well-being— turning what was once a whispered stigma into a rallying cry for support, compassion, and understanding.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting with six passionate members of Gray Matter’s leadership team: John Baldwin, Keeghan Benson, Sarah Hess, Ingrid Hays, Elsie Cook, and John Robert Reed. As we crowded into the makeshift space in Principal Andrea Cooper’s office, it was immediately clear that this was no ordinary group of students. Each one of them spoke with a maturity and conviction that belied their age, driven by a shared goal that was as profound as it was simple—to ensure that no one in their school felt alone.

“Gray Matter is all about creating a safe space for students to talk about their mental health,” said Ingrid, her voice calm but resolute. “We want to stop the stigma and let everyone know it’s okay to not be okay.”

Founded just two years ago, Gray Matter was born out of a growing awareness that mental health struggles were more common than anyone wanted to admit—especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. “The pandemic really shined a light on how much we all need each other,” Keeghan added. “When we were all stuck at home, it became so clear how important it is to have a support system. That’s what we’re trying to build here.”

And build it they have. What started as a small group of friends looking out for one another has blossomed into a school-wide initiative with monthly meetings that draw crowds of 25 to 30 or more students. These gatherings are more than just meetings; they are lifelines. Whether it’s organizing events like “Dogs and Donuts,” where students can unwind with therapy dogs and sweet treats, or hosting mental health workshops, Gray Matter has quickly become a cornerstone of student life at Mercer County High School.

“Being part of Gray Matter has been transformative,” Sarah said with a smile. “It’s not just about helping others; it’s also about helping ourselves. We’re learning how to navigate our own challenges while supporting our peers.”

The group’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. Teachers, parents, and even students who were initially hesitant to engage with mental health topics are now some of Gray Matter’s biggest supporters. “We’ve seen a shift in how people talk about mental health,” Elsie noted. “It’s not a taboo subject anymore. It’s something we can openly discuss, and that’s made a huge difference.”

As we talked, it became clear that each member of Gray Matter had their own story—a personal reason for getting involved in the movement. For some, it was the experience of watching a friend struggle in silence. For others, it was their own battles with anxiety or depression. “I’ve been there,” John Robert shared quietly. “I know what it’s like to feel like you have no one to turn to. Gray Matter is about making sure no one else has to feel that way.”

The group’s efforts are not just confined to the school. They are also working on broader initiatives, including a partnership with the Quad Cities Gray Matter organization and plans to host a community-wide 5K run to raise awareness for mental health. “We want to make a difference not just here at school, but in the entire community,” Keeghan said. “This is something that affects everyone, and we all need to be part of the solution.”

As our conversation wrapped up, it was clear that these students are not just leaders—they are changemakers. They are the kind of young people who look at the world and see not just what is, but what could be. They are the ones who step up when others step back, who speak out when others stay silent.

In a time when the pressures on young people have never been greater, Gray Matter is a beacon of hope. It’s a reminder that even in the smallest of communities, the biggest changes can start with just a few brave voices willing to speak up.

And as these students prepare to step out into the world—whether it’s by becoming teachers, engineers, or something else entirely—they carry with them the lessons they’ve learned in Gray Matter: that we are all stronger together, that it’s okay to ask for help, and that sometimes, just knowing someone is there can make all the difference.

For the residents of Mercer County, having students like these in their midst is something to be proud of indeed.