Supporting Kids and Teens Through Holiday Stress
The holiday season can light up with joy, but for many kids and teens the very same point in time can trigger holiday stress, unexpected pressure, and intensified holiday anxiety. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we understand that keeping the holidays safe, connected and caring is just as important as the celebrations themselves. Here’s how […]
Giving Tuesday: How Your Support Helps Kids and Families in Need
At Western Youth Services (WYS), we know the quiet courage it takes to ask for help and the incredible difference it makes when a community responds with compassion. Every year on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, Giving Tuesday reminds us that generosity is powerful, and every act of kindness, no matter how big or small, […]
Navigating Grief on International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day
Grief can feel overwhelming and debilitating for anyone, but for a child or teen, it can be especially difficult to understand and process. On International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, Western Youth Services honors the resilience of youth who have lost someone to suicide and the adults who are helping them navigate it. Giving a […]
How to Uplift and Empower Trans Youth During Transgender Awareness Week
At Western Youth Services (WYS), we believe that every young person deserves to show up as their true self, without compromise or apology. During Transgender Awareness Week, we invite our community, families, schools, and supporters to highlight the unique strengths and challenges of transgender youth. Our goal is to make every environment safer, more inclusive, […]
Understanding and Supporting Youth Stress on International Stress Awareness Day
Stress doesn’t wait for adulthood to wreak havoc. More and more young people are carrying the weight of academic expectations, social pressures, and the fast pace of everyday life. The world feels heavy right now, and children are absorbing that heaviness from the constant stream of news and social media to what’s happening in their […]
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 […]
Supporting LGBTQIA+ Mental Health During LGBTQIA+ Health Awareness Week
LGBTQIA+ individuals face discrimination in many different aspects of their day to day lives. One of those facets being their access to healthcare. Because of this, the National Coalition for LGBTQ Health established National LGBTQIA+ Health Awareness Week in 2003. It is observed annually in the last week of March. Its purpose is to raise […]
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. […]