Breaking the Silence: Self-Injury Awareness Day
Trigger Warning: This blog post discusses self-harm, self-injury, and mental health challenges, which may be distressing for some readers. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Call or Text 988 – 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7, confidential support). You are not alone and support is here when you need it. […]
Recognizing and Supporting Youth During Eating Disorders Awareness Week
Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW), held February 24 – March 2, 2025, is an annual campaign to educate the public about eating disorders. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), eating disorders have the second-highest mortality rate among mental health conditions. Today, there is an urgent need for addressing the stigmas and lack of […]
Boost Your Self Esteem Month: The Connection Between Self Esteem and Youth Mental Health
Self esteem plays a crucial role in youth mental health and overall well being. Boost Your Self Esteem Month is observed in February and gives us the opportunity to recognize just how vital positive self esteem can be. For youth, navigating challenges like school, relationships, and social media can significantly influence how they perceive themselves. […]
Celebrating Diversity and Driving DEI Initiatives this Black History Month
At Western Youth Services (WYS), diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are fundamental principles that fuel both our work and our overall mission to support youth mental health and well-being. As we welcome February and recognize Black History Month, we are dedicated to honoring the historical accomplishments of Black individuals, celebrating their resilience, and fortifying our […]
No Name-Calling Week: Encouraging Youth Through Respect and Understanding
Every January, No Name-Calling Week reminds us of the power of words and the importance of creating safe, inclusive spaces for all young people. This initiative sheds light on the harmful effects of bullying, particularly verbal abuse, while also providing an opportunity to teach youth about respect, kindness, and empathy. Understanding How Bullying is Experienced […]
Mental Wellness Month: Tips for Prioritizing Youth Mental Health
Mental Wellness Month is celebrated annually in January. It’s a time to reflect and implement methods that can help improve overall mental health. At Western Youth Services, we are committed to supporting youth and families across Orange County as they navigate the challenges of mental health and all that it may bring. This month, we’re […]
Holiday Mental Health Awareness: Support and Resources for a Joyful, Balanced Season
December is known to be a time filled with festive celebrations. While this is true, it can also be a difficult season for some. It’s important to acknowledge that the end of the year can bring an abundance of stress, loneliness, and various emotional troubles. This time often exacerbates feelings people may endure year-round, including; […]
Join Western Youth Services for Giving Tuesday: Support Our Annual Fundraising Campaign
This Giving Tuesday, on December 3rd, 2024, we invite you to join Western Youth Services in kicking off our annual fundraising campaign, Giving Hope, Saving Lives. Giving Tuesday, a global movement established in 2012, encourages people and organizations to make a positive impact in their communities and through charitable giving. Recognized every year on the […]
International Survivors of Suicide Day: Honoring Lives and Healing Grief
On International Survivors of Suicide Day, we honor lost loved ones and share ways to find support, heal, and build resilience.
Transgender Awareness Week: Supporting the Mental Health of Transgender Youth
Understanding the unique mental health challenges for transgender youth during Transgender Awareness Week and ways to provide support.