CALL 888-312-0406 TO GET HELP

Supporting the Mental Health of BIPOC and Minority Communities

Supporting the Mental Health of BIPOC and Minority Communities

July is BIPOC Mental Health Month, also known as National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. It’s a time to recognize and honor the unique identities, strengths, and experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. While we celebrate cultural diversity, it’s also important to acknowledge that mental health care doesn’t always reflect that diversity. Many […]

Understanding and Supporting Youth on National PTSD Awareness Day

Learn about PTSD in youth, recognize symptoms, and find resources for support on National PTSD Awareness Day with Western Youth Services.

National PTSD Awareness Day is recognized annually on June 27th. It serves as a great opportunity to take the time to fully understand Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the impact it has, especially on young people. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we honor this day by raising awareness about PTSD symptoms, offering resources for […]

Juneteenth: Honoring History and Black Mental Health

As we recognize Juneteenth this year, Western Youth Services (WYS) urges those within our community to educate themselves and reflect on the importance of this holiday, honor the resilience and achievements of the Black community, and explore how racial justice and mental health are deeply intertwined, especially for our youth. What Is Juneteenth? Juneteenth is […]

National Anxiety Month: Understanding and Supporting Children’s Mental Health

May is not only Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s also National Anxiety Month. This initiative allows us to take a closer look at one of the most common mental health challenges affecting young people today: anxiety in children. By increasing anxiety awareness, we can take meaningful steps to understand the needs of children and teens, […]

Stress Awareness Month: Understanding and Managing Stress in Youth

April is here which means it’s Stress Awareness Month. This is a great opportunity to acknowledge stress and its impact on mental health. While stress is a normal part of life, prolonged or even overwhelming stress can truly take its toll, especially on younger individuals. With academic pressures, social expectations, and life transitions, many youth […]

Raising Awareness and Reducing Stigma This World Bipolar Day

raising-awareness-and-reducing-stigma-this-world-bipolar-day

Established in 2014, World Bipolar Day is recognized annually on March 30th. It actually coincides with the birthday of the renowned artist Vincent van Gogh, who was diagnosed after his death as most likely having bipolar disorder. The purpose of this day is to increase global awareness of bipolar disorder, eliminate social stigma, and promote […]

Breaking the Silence: Self-Injury Awareness Day

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

supporting-youth-during-national-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

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. […]