Students shared their experiences of how the pandemic affected their mental health at a forum at Hackensack University Medical Center Friday.

The pandemic took its toll on youth mental health in the past two years. Kids have felt isolated, hopeless, even suicidal.

One student said as the lockdown was lifted, he was still experiencing depression. He saw his grades suffer and he stopped eating, but found that talking to counselors helped him.

Students hope their stories inspires others who are struggling to get help.