DONIPHAN, Neb. (KSNB) – Dante Boelhower graduated from Adams Central High School back in 2021. Now that he has received his diploma, he is now returning to back to classes to speak to students about mental health.

During his tenure as a Patriot he struggled with mental health and finding his identity. Now after facing his battle he wanted to let students at Doniphan-Trumbull High School know that they aren’t alone.

I thought what better way than to spread awareness that there is another side of the story,” Boelhower said. “It doesn’t always have to end in tragedy. It can be turned into kind of a success story and sort of hope. That is what I am trying to put out to the high schools that have me come out and speak to them.”

When the 21-year-old was facing his personal battle, his psychologist said something to him that has stuck with him ever since.

“You are valuable to this world simply because you are you and nobody else can be you.”

He said the demographic of high schoolers can be overlooked in some instances of mental health.

“High schoolers are a mixed bag emotionally, I know I was,” Boelhower said. “Things can feel so definite and infinite why you’re in high school. A lot of times you are kind of looked at like there isn’t a whole lot of problems. Most of the people I know that have struggled the most have been the most put together.”

Boelhower said the hardest part is telling someone that you are struggling.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health you are encouraged to dial the suicide lifeline at 988.

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