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 […]
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 […]
Prioritizing Men’s Mental Health During National Men’s Health Week
Annually in June, we recognize National Men’s Health Week. This year it will be observed during the days leading up to Father’s Day, June 9th – 15th. This week serves as an important reminder to focus on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of men and boys. It also raises awareness about preventable health problems […]
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. […]
International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia: The Power of Community
International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOBIT), celebrated annually on May 17th, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the discrimination that LGBTQ+ individuals face. It also allows everyone to promote a world of inclusion, respect, and love. This day commemorates the decision by the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 17th, 1990, […]
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, […]
Mental Health Awareness Month: Turn Awareness into Action
Spring may be in full swing during May, but it also means that it’s Mental Health Awareness Month. Bringing awareness to mental health struggles helps to normalize these challenges that many people, including youth, may face. This year’s theme, Turn Awareness into Action, serves as a powerful reminder that understanding mental health is truly only […]
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, […]