Every year, the month of May shines a spotlight on children and youth’s mental health and well-being. We all play an important role in raising awareness of children and youth’s mental health and substance use needs, reducing stigma and sharing information about vital resources and supports. 

In observation of Mental Health Awareness Month and Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week, the California Health & Human Services Agency (CalHHS) has curated important tools, information and resources for youth, families, caregivers and teachers, which can be found on the Youth Mental Health Resource Hub. To help spread the word about these resources, we have put together a digital toolkit that partners are encouraged to use. 

During May, we also observe Student Mental Health Awareness Week, which takes place from May 8–12, 2023. CalHHS and the California Department of Education (CDE) recognize the wide array of efforts schools have underway to support young people’s social, emotional and mental health needs. During this awareness week, CalHHS and CDE partnered to release a letter highlighting a dynamic set of resources for schools, staff, and educators to further create a nurturing learning environment for students. 

To learn more, click on the links below.

Resources:

• CalHHS Youth Mental Health Resource Hub (Click here to view)
  • From articles on coping with stress to videos on mindfulness exercises, trainings, guides and tips, this hub has many resources youth, families, and teachers can use to support children and youth’s mental health and well-being.
• CalHHS Mental Health Awareness Month Digital Toolkit (Click here to view)
  • To help spread awareness and encourage others to access these resources, we have created a digital toolkit that you can use. This toolkit includes social media graphics and sample posts in English and Spanish to help promote the Youth Mental Health Resource Hub.
• CDE Student Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 Letter (Click here to view)
  • Shares resources for students, families, and staff through the CDE Mental Health Resources Hub as well as additional resources and information to support the mental health and well-being of California students and staff in K-12 Schools through California’s Safe Schools for All Hub.
• Resources for Schools: Prioritizing Student Mental Health (Click here to view)
  • A compilation of hotlines, mental health support, workshop ideas and other resources from initiatives and programs in California. Various digital toolkits are also available and offer free multimedia content such as videos, social graphics, self-care tips, flashcards, coloring pages and other educational materials.