National Counseling Awareness Month: The Benefits of Therapy for Youth
April means Spring is upon us, it also marks the start of National Counseling Awareness Month. This month gives us the chance to recognize the beneficial impact that therapy and counseling can have on youth mental well-being. Mental health challenges are increasingly common among youth. However, when younger individuals are equipped with the right support, […]
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 […]
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 […]
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.
International Stress Awareness Day – Stress Busters and Healthy Ways to Cope
This International Stress Awareness Day, we’re sharing stress-busting techniques to help youth reduce stress and build resilience.
OCD Awareness Week: Understanding and Supporting Youth with OCD
OCD Awareness Week kicks off on October 13th and continues on until October 19th. This week allows us to recognize and to celebrate those that live with OCD and how it affects their lives daily. OCD Awareness Week, launched in 2009 by the International OCD Foundation, aims to increase understanding and awareness of OCD and […]
Depression Awareness Month: Understanding Depression in Youth
As we welcome October, we also recognize the significance this month brings. October is National Depression Awareness Month. Anyone may be susceptible to experiencing depression depending on many different factors. This is why it’s so imperative that we bring awareness to the signs, types, symptoms and treatments of depression. Mental health awareness – in and […]
Handling Back-to-School Anxiety: Tips for a Smooth Transition
As August approaches, so does the anticipation of the back-to-school season. While this time can be exciting for many children, it can also trigger anxiety and stress for others. At Western Youth Services, we understand the challenges that back-to-school anxiety can present and offer support to help children navigate this transition with confidence. Let’s explore […]
BIPOC Mental Health Month: Addressing Mental Health Disparities and Enhancing Access to Care
July marks BIPOC Mental Health Awareness Month, a crucial time dedicated to raising awareness about the mental health challenges faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. This month serves as an important reminder of the disparities in mental health care and the need to create more inclusive and accessible services for BIPOC […]