Standing Up Together: National Stop Bullying Day and Empowering Youth
National Stop Bullying Day, observed annually on the second Wednesday of October, reminds us of something simple yet powerful: no child should ever feel unsafe or unwelcome because of the way they are treated by peers. Bullying should not be seen as a “normal” part of growing up. It is harmful, it impacts mental health, […]
Guiding Young Minds: Mental Illness Awareness Week at WYS
October 6th through the 12th is Mental Illness Awareness Week, and it’s all about checking in on how we feel, especially for young people. Sometimes life feels really heavy, school gets super stressful, or friendships can get complicated. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we know that it’s completely normal to struggle sometimes, and getting support […]
Spotting the Signs: Helping Youth During National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month
Mental health screenings are incredibly powerful tools that help to identify challenges early and can open the door to experiencing support and healing. This October, we recognize National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month and the importance of caring for emotional wellbeing, especially for our youth. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we are committed to […]
Understanding ADHD: Supporting Youth Mental Health and Growth
Behind every child with ADHD is a unique story of resilience and potential, and ADHD Awareness Month is an opportunity to celebrate their strengths while learning how to better support them. This month is a chance for families, educators, and members within our community to fully understand the daily challenges children/teens face and to discover […]
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
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 […]
Creating Safe Spaces During Pride Month: Supporting LGBTQ Youth Through Mental Health Awareness
June marks the beginning of summer and also the recognition of Pride Month, a time to honor and uplift the LGBTQ community. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we recognize that Pride is so much more than a celebration. It is a reminder that mental health and well-being are essential to equity, inclusion, and human dignity. […]
Creating Safe Spaces During Pride Month: Supporting LGBTQ Youth Through Mental Health Awareness
June marks the beginning of summer and also the recognition of Pride Month, a time to honor and uplift the LGBTQ community. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we recognize that Pride is so much more than a celebration. It is a reminder that mental health and well-being are essential to equity, inclusion, and human dignity. […]
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 […]
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; […]