National Prevention Week and the Pursuit of Positive Mental Health
In an era where mental health and substance abuse issues increasingly affect our youth, National Prevention Week (NPW) stands as a beacon of hope and education. Celebrated annually from May 12th to May 18th, NPW is an opportunity to raise awareness about mental health and substance abuse prevention strategies. This year, Western Youth Services joins […]
Nurturing Youth Mental Health: Self-Care Tips for a Resilient New Year
As we stand on the cusp of a new year, Western Youth Services extends warm wishes for a year filled with growth, resilience, and, above all, positive mental well-being. The journey into the New Year provides an excellent opportunity to prioritize youth mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore essential self-care tips tailored for […]
Supporting Mental Well-Being Through the Holidays: Explore One Door Any Door/Access Coordination at Western Youth Services
As the holiday season approaches, Western Youth Services extends warm wishes to our community. While this time is often associated with joy and celebration, we understand that it can also bring challenges, especially in terms of mental health. This season, we want to emphasize the importance of mental well-being and highlight the valuable support available […]
Understanding Teen Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Understanding Teen Drug and Alcohol Abuse High school is an exciting time filled with new experiences. Adolescents are hardwired to take risks and try out “adult” behaviors. It makes sense that almost 70 percent of high school seniors have tried alcohol, and 50 percent have taken an illegal drug such as marijuana. There is a […]
Cutting to the Core
Cutting to the Core Nonsuicidal Self-Injury or self-harm, shows up in the form of intentional self-mutilation, often cutting. According to research compiled by The Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine the numbers are staggering, 15% of adolescents in the US are afflicted, and the number increases from 17% to 35% to college-aged students. […]
WYS Celebrates 45 Years
Making an Impact in the Community for 45 Years In 2017, Western Youth Services (WYS) celebrates our 45th year of service in the Orange County, CA community. We are overjoyed about this significant milestone. Not only have we survived through ups and downs both in the world and within our organization, but we have thrived. […]
It Takes a Village to Heal Mental Illness
The 21st Century Cures Act As CEO of a children’s mental health services organization, I applaud the fact that President Obama recently signed the 21st Century Cures Act, which includes Rep. Chris Murphy’s “Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act” as part of the larger health-care reform package. The bi-partisan legislation was designed to help […]
Thanks Dee Hase
Congratulations and Thanks Dee Hase What can be said about an employee who has faithfully dedicated 35 years to serving one organization? Thank YOU so very much! Over the years Western Youth Services (WYS) has been Dee’s home away from home…she sees us (and we see her) as family. She is extremely conscientious, has a […]
ACEs – From Adversity to Resiliency
ACEs – From Adversity to Resiliency Recently, we attended a local Rotary Club event and shared a bit of what we do at Western Youth Services (WYS). A man approached our booth and told us that his children were WYS clients 15 years ago. He said his entire life has been turned around as a […]
Have you heard of the Adverse Childhood Experiences – ACE Study?
Have you heard of the Adverse Childhood Experiences – ACE Study? Western Youth Services (WYS) has been a hub for Children’s Mental Health in Orange County, California since October 1972, treating children, youth and families facing trauma and stress. While we were aware that the study existed, it was not until we watched Dr. Nadine […]