This article is part of a series of profiles of 2025 graduating seniors in Salem high schools that will be published over the coming week. See the full series here .

After struggling with depression in middle school, Emma Tribbey knew she wanted to help other teens.

She emerged from her darkest period with a deeper faith, a career plan and a clearer understanding that determination isn’t always enough to overcome mental illness.

“It just comes up, and you can try and work on it, but sometimes you’re not strong enough to do it on your own,” she said.

Tribbey graduated from West Salem High School this week. She has also completed the behavioral health career program offered at the school district’s Career Technical Education Center.

At West, Tribbey has been a “rock solid” presence i

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