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; […]
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.
Embracing Gratitude for Mental Wellbeing: National Gratitude Month and Youth Mental Health

National Gratitude Month and its connection to youth mental health, plus some tips for fostering resilience through gratitude exercises.
Bullying Prevention Month: How Bullying Impacts Youth Mental Health and the Role of Prevention
With the start of a new month, Western Youth Services would like to highlight an extremely important cause: bullying prevention. October is National Bullying Prevention Month. This month serves as an opportunity for everyone to practice being kind, inclusive and to take action if you or someone you know is experiencing bullying. At WYS, we […]