'Race to Nowhere' Screening at South County

The film that has sparked a national debate on the link between stress-induced illnesses and the educational system is coming to South County Secondary School Wednesday.

Race to Nowhere argues that there is a growing connection between depression, burnout, sleep deprivation, stress-related illnesses and the high-stakes achievement culture promoted in the college admissions process and by parents. The film features students from around the country who have been pushed too far and burnt-out educators who say kids aren't prepared to succeed in the real world, according to the website.

Director Vicki Abeles, a first-time filmmaker, came up with the idea for the documentary after her own 12-year-old daughter was diagnosed with a stress-induced illness.

“As a mother, I experienced the stress firsthand and realized that no one was talking about it,” said Abeles. “I saw kids who were anxious, depressed, physically ill, checking out, abusing drugs and, worst case, attempting suicide. I felt compelled to speak out about this crisis by making a film and giving a voice to the students, teachers, and parents.

"I wanted to expose a deeper truth about our education system," said Abeles. "We are graduating a generation of robo-students, unable to think and work independently, creatively and collaboratively.”

The show begins at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at South County Secondary School. Participants are asked to register online for the event.