On December 17th, Gloucester High School invited Wes Woodson, an acclaimed mental health advocate, public speaker, and content creator, to speak to GHS students.
Woodson, recognized for his work in helping people navigate anxiety, build confidence, and cultivate self-love, shares his personal story of transforming his own anxiety into purpose to schools around the nation. Woodson’s goal is to make mental health discussions more approachable and less intimidating for people, especially Gen Z.
Wes previously spoke at Gloucester High School and made a lasting impression. A collaboration between the Gloucester High School Mental Health Ambassadors and the Gloucester Youth Leadership Council, the groups advocated for Woodson’s return to the school this year.
“[My main goal of these presentations is to show that students] are not alone in how they feel,” Woodson said when asked about the main takeaway of the presentation. “More importantly, there are other people who want to help them.”
During the presentation, Woodson shared his journey navigating anxiety and depression throughout his life. Sharing personal anecdotes spanning from his test anxiety to his abusive relationship, the speaker expressed guidance and support candidly.
“I think it’s about being more like, this might sound funny, but being more playful. I want it to be more of a conversation as opposed to a clinical topic. I [wanted] to make it not only interactive, but also more high-energy.”
Woodson left students with messages of hope, pushing students who feel affected by the struggles he spoke of to speak to people they value.
“I think it was important to bring Wes back because everybody here is enough,” Mental Health Ambassador Mackayla Allen said. “He quoted that a lot. It’s good to talk to people when something is wrong because you don’t want to hold all your feelings inside.”
Woodson and his teachings are available on his website, as well as on his social media (@weswoodson). He also has his book, entitled “I Have Anxiety (So What?)”, available to purchase on his website.
If you or someone you know needs immediate mental health support, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) for 24/7 free, confidential help. Text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line) for compassionate, text-based support.











![The Fishermen Softball team had their work cut out for them against #2 Norton in the Elite 8 and failed to jump back from an early 7-0 deficit. [Photo courtesy of Dawn Enos]](https://thegillnetter.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/709166380_10164685011414728_8841526148411460004_n-1200x801.jpg)
![Abby Noble allowed just two hits across seven innings of work, sending Gloucester to their third straight Sweet 16. [Photo courtesy of Dawn Enos]](https://thegillnetter.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/689006146_10164619441929728_5207318100033678928_n-2-1200x801.jpg)
![Boys 4x400m poses with medals from left to right Vincent Mannone, Jefferson do Carmo, Seamus Linehan, Deion Kasera.
[Photo Courtesy of David Coleman]](https://thegillnetter.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/IMG_2470-1200x900.jpeg)
![The GHS Softball and Baseball teams are set to enter the playoffs this week, both hosting the Round of 32 on the island.
[Photo Courtesy of Dawn Enos and the MIAA]](https://thegillnetter.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Power-Rankings-1080x1080-1.png)
![The Gloucester DECA chapter poses together after the Grand Award Ceremony. [Photo courtesy of Gloucester DECA]](https://thegillnetter.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/IMG_7994-1200x736.jpeg)














