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.
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 […]
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 […]
Mental Illness Awareness Week & World Mental Health Day: Understanding Youth Mental Health

October is a busy month filled with various mental health wellness initiatives. Kicking off the first week, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and participants across the country raise awareness of mental illness, fight discrimination, and provide support through Mental Illness Awareness Week from October 1st through October 7th. The National Alliance on Mental […]
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 […]
Friendship Month: Fostering Healthy Communities and Support Systems for Youth

Friendship Month is a time to celebrate the invaluable connections and support systems that friendships provide, especially for youth. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we recognize the profound impact of friendship on youth mental health and the importance of building healthy communities. Let’s explore why friendship is crucial for youth and how it contributes to […]
Uniting for Hope: Suicide Prevention Month and WYS Initiatives

September marks Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, promoting understanding, and offering support to those affected by suicide. At Western Youth Services (WYS), we are committed to preventing suicide and supporting individuals struggling with mental health challenges. Join us as we acknowledge National Suicide Prevention Week (September 8th-14th) and National Suicide Prevention […]
National Grief Awareness Day: Supporting Youth Through the Journey of Grief

On August 30th, we observe National Grief Awareness Day, a time to acknowledge the profound impact of grief on individuals and communities. At Western Youth Services, we understand the unique challenges that grief poses, particularly for youth, and offer support and resources to help them navigate this journey with compassion and resilience. Let’s explore how […]
National Nonprofit Day: Honoring 52 Years of Impact at Western Youth Services

On August 17th, we commemorate National Nonprofit Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of nonprofit organizations in serving communities and making a positive impact. At Western Youth Services, we’re proud to celebrate 52 years of dedication to the well-being of youth and families in Orange County. What is a Nonprofit Organization? A […]