mental health presentation for youth

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Digital Shareables on Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Use these resources to raise awareness about the importance of child and adolescent mental health.

Mental health is an important part of overall health for children and adolescents. Many adults with mental disorders had symptoms that were not recognized or addressed in childhood or adolescence.

Help raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health and early diagnosis and treatment by sharing information and materials based on the latest research.

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Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Help raise awareness about the importance of child and adolescent mental health by sharing informational materials based on the latest research. Share science. Share hope. https://go.nih.gov/diK806G  #shareNIMH

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It can be tough to tell if troubling behavior in a child or teen is just part of growing up or a problem that should be discussed with a health care provider. Learn more about warning signs: https://go.nih.gov/VDeJ75X  #shareNIMH

Teen Depression

Being a teenager can be tough, but it shouldn’t feel hopeless. Check your symptoms, and find out what you can do if you think you might have depression. https://go.nih.gov/dGGEwYi  #shareNIMH

I’m So Stressed Out!

Life can be stressful. If you are struggling to cope, or the symptoms of your stress or anxiety won’t go away, it could affect your health. Learn more at https://go.nih.gov/HcjwFWe  . #shareNIMH

The Teen Brain is Resilient

Did you know that big and important changes are happening in the brain during adolescence? Here are 7 things you should know about the teen brain: https://go.nih.gov/cX8gB6u  #shareNIMH

Know the Signs of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is not the same as the typical ups and downs every kid goes through, but with help, children and teens can manage their symptoms and lead successful lives. Learn more at https://go.nih.gov/UzIGOVj  #shareNIMH

Bipolar Disorder in Teens and Young Adults

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, marked by episodes of mania and depression. Know the signs and symptoms of bipolar disorder in teens and young adults: https://go.nih.gov/uU4NAlG  #shareNIMH

Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Traumatic Events

Learn what caregivers and family members can do to help children and adolescents cope with traumatic events. https://go.nih.gov/FhVDaFG  #shareNIMH

My Mental Health: Do I Need Help?

Do you need help with your mental health? If you don't know where to start, this infographic may help guide you. https://go.nih.gov/1VtK7eA  #shareNIMH

Help for Mental Illnesses

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Childhood Irritability : Learn about symptoms of irritability, why it's important to study irritability, NIMH-supported research in this area, and new treatments for severe irritability in youth.

Get to Know Your Brain: Your brain is an incredible and complex organ! It helps you think, learn, create, and feel emotions, and it controls every blink, breath, and heartbeat. Learn more about the parts of the brain and what each area helps control.

Mental Health Minute: Stress and Anxiety in Adolescents: Got 60 seconds? Take a mental health minute to learn about stress and anxiety in adolescents.

NIMH Expert Discusses Bipolar Disorder in Adolescents and Young Adults:  Learn the signs, symptoms, and treatments of bipolar disorder as well as tips for managing bipolar disorder during the pandemic. 

NIMH Deputy Director Dr. Shelli Avenevoli Discusses the Youth Mental Health Crisis: Learn about youth suicide, the effects of technology and the pandemic on the developing brain, and tips for supporting the mental health of youth.

Getting to Know Your Brain: Dealing with Stress: Test your knowledge about stress and the brain. Also learn how to create and use a “ stress catcher ” to practice strategies to deal with stress.

Guided Visualization: Dealing with Stress: Learn how the brain handles stress and practice a guided visualization activity.

Diagnosis and Treatment in Children and Adolescents:  Learn about research related to stress on children and adolescent brains, and diagnosis and treatments for severe irritability disorder.

Use these materials to educate kids about mental health

Print or order these educational tools to help teach kids about mental health and the brain. Resources are available in English and Spanish.

Get Excited About Mental Health Research!

This free coloring and activity book introduces kids to the exciting world of mental health research.

Stand Up to Stress!

This free coloring and activity book teaches children about stress and anxiety and offers tips for coping in a healthy way.

Get Excited About the Brain!

This free coloring and activity book for children ages 8-12 features exciting facts about the human brain and mental health.

Stress Catcher

Life can get challenging sometimes, and it’s important for kids (and adults!) to develop strategies for coping with stress or anxiety. This printable stress catcher “fortune teller” offers some strategies children can practice and use to help manage stress and other difficult emotions.

Learn more about children and adolescent mental health

  more information about children and adolescent mental health,   brochures and fact sheets.

Last Reviewed: April 2024

Understanding the Youth Mental Health Crisis

What contributes to an adolescent’s mental health condition.

Posted November 4, 2022 | Reviewed by Vanessa Lancaster

• Half of young people aged 18-24 are experiencing moderate or severe depression, while another 23 percent have mild symptoms.
• It's crucial that adolescents and teens have the opportunity to share their experiences without judgment.
• We have the ability to make a difference by listening to, and learning from, young people’s voices and experiences.

Whether you’re a young person, a parent, a mental health professional, or simply someone familiar with mental health trends, you’ve likely heard about the youth mental health crisis in the U.S.

While mental healthcare needs to be improved for children and youth–including long-term changes at the institutional level–there are actions individuals can take to improve environments and relationships, offer more support, and develop a richer understanding of issues that affect adolescents and teens.

One of the first and most important steps involves checking in with young people. Studies offer helpful insights, but they only go so far and deep. The more opportunities adolescents and teens have to share their experiences without judgment, the more the adults in their lives will be able to understand their views, challenges, and needs. Ultimately, they will be more prepared to take the steps to implement change where it’s needed most.

The Youth Mental Health Crisis

Mental health conditions affect young people’s lives on a profound level. A report from the COVID States Project shows that 50 percent of young people aged 18-24 are experiencing moderate or severe depression , while another 23 percent have mild symptoms. Depression is one of many conditions on the rise.

Though COVID-19 added its own unique complications to this issue, mental health challenges were already prevalent, even before the pandemic. According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s 2021 Advisory, “ Protecting Youth Mental Health ,” these challenges continue to be the leading cause of poor life outcomes and disabilities in America’s youth.

In December 2021, the Office of the Surgeon General released its above advisory regarding youth mental health. These advisories are reserved for significant public health issues that require immediate awareness and action. Contributing factors, the advisory notes, are varied. Environmental factors and relationships impact young people’s mental well-being, from their homes and schools to families, social networks, communities, and cultures.

We need to improve mental health care for adolescents and teens. Despite limitations in how individuals can impact institutions at large, we have the ability to make a difference by listening to–and learning from–young people’s voices and experiences.

A Closer Look at Mental Health

How would you define mental health? The CDC describes it as our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel, and act and our ability to navigate life, adapt, cope, and form fulfilling relationships.

If you ask young people, their answers might be a bit more nuanced. One 2021 study includes findings from interviews with adolescents and young adults ages 17 to 25. This kind of research–in which young people’s perspectives on their own lived experiences are taken into account–is scarce but illuminating.

Researchers found that when young people talk about mental health, they focus less on their individual thoughts and feelings and more on relationships, as well as the overall complexity of mental health.

Social media expectations take a toll, according to some interviewees. Constant comparison is exhausting and disheartening, especially when peers, at a glance, seem to have it “all together.” In their interviews, youth described many sources of mental health problems, including:

• Growing academic stress and pressure
• Managing relationships with peers, parents, and others
• Lack of a clear, “accepted” way to express mental health struggles
• Limited or no access to adults who can be present, listen, and offer support

The prevalence of mental health challenges also varies among subpopulations. For example, socioeconomically disadvantaged youth are two to three times more likely to develop mental health conditions than those with higher socioeconomic status.

BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ youth also report unique struggles tied to minority stressors, such as discrimination and a lack of support and acceptance in their communities and environments. While some contributing factors overlap, lived experiences vary widely, making it even more critical for adults to hear diverse perspectives and to listen to the personal experiences of the youth in their lives.

Barriers to Seeking Help

It’s also important to understand why young people might have a hard time finding support or even asking for help in the first place. Even though young adults struggle with mental health more than any other age group, many don’t receive treatment.

Researchers found that 48 percent of young adults experienced mental health symptoms in 2021, compared to 20 percent in 2019. However, only one-third received treatment, while another third reported they wanted support but did not receive it.

Why is it so hard to receive mental healthcare as a young person? Reasons vary, but research—including interviews with teens—points to some of the more common roadblocks.

• Self-Reliance and Resistance

Young people may want to “handle it themselves.” There’s a desire for independence and, at times, a fear of relying on another person, committing to recovery, or depending on medication —despite the fact that the right resources can be incredibly helpful.

• Lack of Knowledge

Teens struggling with mental health issues may experience low mental health literacy, meaning they’re uninformed about symptoms, available resources, and coping skills. Demographic disparities contribute to this as well.

• Fear of Judgment

Many young people don’t want to be seen as “lazy” or a “burden” when asking for mental health support from peers or adults. They may also worry about not being taken seriously.

• Instability

Youth without supportive adult relationships, people they can picture being empathetic if they share a concern, are less likely to seek support when they need it.

• Need for Confidentiality

Those struggling with mental health need to know that their thoughts and experiences will be kept secret unless otherwise specified. Confidentiality creates a safe environment where open sharing is possible.

• Possible Repercussions

If young people think there’s a chance they might face repercussions at home, school, or work for requiring mental health support, they may opt to stay silent instead.

Adults who interact with adolescents and teens–parents, teachers, and the like–can help eliminate some of these barriers. It’s critical for adults to inform young people about their options, check in with them on a regular basis and create safe and open environments for honest communication.

The Power of Perspective

We know young people struggle with mental health, but do we know enough about their daily lived experiences? Some research includes insights from interviews, which helps enrich our understanding. There are also efforts to involve young people in research and share their specific stories.

One example is a review from Karolin Krause at the Center for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto, Canada. Krause explored whether problem-solving training might help alleviate symptoms of depression in young people. Contributors included a panel of 12 youth advisors. Together, they were able to help review the evidence and contextualize the findings. They learned that while problem-solving training might help some young people work through personal challenges, it may not be enough to combat depressive symptoms requiring more comprehensive support.

Reviews like Krause’s highlight the value of collaboration . The more clinicians, researchers, and communities are open to working with young people, the better equipped they can become to gain deeper insights and offer support.

Another example of work that not only involves young people directly but also highlights their first-person accounts is the PBS documentary , Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness . The film features interviewees from ages 11 to 27 who open up about their struggles and share how they’ve found help. Topics like discrimination, bullying , and stigma are also addressed.

Whether it’s a research article, film, or treatment approach, young people’s perspectives are essential. The more we can involve them in conversations about mental health, the more we can learn–not just from statistics but from stories. Sharing their experiences can also help normalize the need for mental health care among teens and adults alike.

More Ways to Offer Support

Mental health issues are something most of us encounter wherever we are in life. This commonality opens up room for dialogue–the more we talk about these issues, specifically with young people, the more we can break down stigma and reduce fear. Here are a few more ways adults can promote better mental healthcare for adolescents and teens:

This is something that’s been stated already but can’t be emphasized enough. Teachers, mental health professionals, and parents: actively listen to the young people in your life when they talk about mental health.

Make sure their feelings and experiences are validated. Remember, young people may fear not being taken seriously.

Without pushing, asking more questions (like “How are you, really?”) shows you’re genuinely interested and care. It also creates more space for them to share.

• Be Proactive

You don’t have to wait until someone “looks” like they’re struggling. Instead, check in and let them know you’re available to listen and support them.

At school, teachers and staff members should consider the best ways to inform students and parents about counseling and any other resources.

• Lead by example

When appropriate, share your own experiences. Let them know that “failure” is okay and “perfection” doesn’t exist.

Put yourself in their shoes. This will help them feel understood and develop their own capacity for empathy, too.

Once we put these behaviors into practice, we can work together to create a brighter future for adolescents and teens struggling with mental health.

To find a therapist near you, visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory .

Caroline Fenkel, DSW, LCSW, is the Co-founder and Chief Clinical Officer of Charlie Health.

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Youth Mental Health First Aid Workshop Infographics

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Mental health is a very sensitive topic and during our teenage years is even more complicated to manage and understand. This is why we have come up with this infographics to help you organize your thoughts and help your loved ones. If it’s for the Youth Mental Health First Aid Workshop Presentation or for any other presentation, you can edit these infographics and add them to your presentations. You can explain, display or organize some activities to understand your feelings and fears. Download these infographics and start helping young people who struggle with mental health

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Young adults are in a mental health crisis. Why is little being done?

The kids are, in fact, not at all alright.

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America has put a particular emphasis since the pandemic on addressing an ongoing mental health and loneliness crisis, particularly among teens. While it was warranted to worry about teens, another group's struggles with depression and anxiety are essentially going unnoticed. Many young adults in the United States find the transition into adulthood daunting, as they anxiously search for a sense of purpose. And many of them are doing the transition alone.

'Young adults are more vulnerable than ever'

Young adulthood could be "a time of great growth and possibility." Still, many young adults say they feel "on edge, lonely, directionless and that they worry about financial security," said Richard Weissbourd, the faculty director of Making Caring Common , a Harvard Graduate School of Education project. 

His 2023 study found that 36% of people aged 18 to 25 reported experiencing anxiety, and 29% reported experiencing depression, about twice as many as compared to 14-to-17-year-olds on both questions. "Many are 'achieving to achieve' and find little meaning in either school or work," Weissbourd said. Nearly 60% of the cohort reported lacking "meaning or purpose" in their lives during the previous month, while half of them said their mental health was negatively influenced by "not knowing what to do with my life."

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Generation Z's young adults have had a rough, hard launch into adulthood. Many of them "launched a career or entered college amid a pandemic and turbulent economy," and now they are facing "high housing prices, a lack of connection in the workplace, world disasters, misinformation exacerbated by social media and an epidemic of loneliness across generations," said The Washington Post .

"Young adults are more vulnerable than ever," The Atlantic said, "but much of American society doesn't see them that way." Other surveys of young adults "have similarly alarming findings" as the Harvard study results. In 2020, the CDC found that depression was most prevalent among 18-to-24-year-olds and least prevalent among those 65 or older. A Gallup poll  found that loneliness was at its highest at ages 18 to 29. "Still, the struggles of young adults have gone widely unnoticed," The Atlantic added. When Weissbourd received the study's data, "it was really upsetting," he told the outlet. "What is going on here? And why aren't we talking about it more?"

'Less attention and fewer resources'

Since the pandemic, the mental health of young adults "hasn't been on our public radar in the way that teens' mental health has," said Milena Batanova, Making Caring Count's director of research and evaluation and a co-author of the report. Many young adults are tackling the unique challenges they face "with fewer resources for support than younger teens, who have multiple daily contacts with parents, caregivers, teachers and mentors in their schools," the Washington Post said. 

Overall, the "20-somethings have received less attention and fewer resources." There is a lot more that needs to be done to "support young adults' mental health and devote more resources to prevention," said Kiran Bhai, MCC's schools and parenting programs director, including "reducing the stressors that young people are facing and helping them develop the skills they need to thrive."

Older adults "need to acknowledge this crisis," Faith Hill said in The Atlantic . Recognizing young people as "worthy of empathy means understanding today's challenges." It may also mean "recalling one's own youth as it really was — and finding compassion for one's past self." It may be helpful to let young people know that even "flawed choices can lead to a life that, however imperfect, encompasses real moments of joy, accomplishment and self-knowledge." If society "romanticized that growth a little more and the golden glow of youth a little less, young adults might feel less alone in their distress," Hill added. "They might even look forward to finding out what's next."

Despite the alarming findings about young adults, there is a silver lining, MCC faculty director Weissbourd said . Teens and young adults may be "more psychologically aware and articulate than any generation in history, and more open about talking about emotional problems. For decades, people have suffered silently and terribly who have experienced depression and anxiety, and this is the generation that's talking about it."

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Theara Coleman has worked as a staff writer at The Week since September 2022. She frequently writes about technology, education, literature and general news. She was previously a contributing writer and assistant editor at Honeysuckle Magazine, where she covered racial politics and cannabis industry news. 

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Articles on Youth mental health crisis

Displaying all articles.

Friday essay: Bad therapy or cruel world? How the youth mental health crisis has been sucked into the culture wars

Nick Haslam , The University of Melbourne

As the mental health crisis in children and teens worsens, the dire shortage of mental health providers is preventing young people from getting the help they need

Steven Berkowitz , University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

As suicides rise in the US, the 988 hotline offers hope – but most Americans aren’t aware of it

Emmy Betz , University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

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• Youth suicide

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The following is a collection of links and resources related various mental illnesses and associated conditions & issues, as well as resources related to different populations, such as children & adolescents, veterans and seniors.

Contents on this page:

Resources by Mental Health Conditions:

1. Anxiety Disorders 2.  Attention Deficit Disorder 3.  Bipolar Disorder 4.  Borderline Personality Disorder 5.  Conduct Disorder/Antisocial Personality Disorder 6.  Depression 7.  Dissociative Disorders 8.  Eating Disorders 9.  Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 10.  Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Other Trauma 11.  Schizophrenia 12.  Schizoaffective Disorder 13.  Dual Diagnosis

Other Useful Mental Health Links:

1.  Children and Adolescents 2. Veterans 3.  Seniors and Older Adults 4.  LGBTQ+ 5.  Mental Health Presentations, Podcasts, Blogs and Apps 6.  Treatment Search Sites 7.  Mental Health Recovery Sites 8. Support and Advocacy Groups 9. General Mental Health Information 10. Online Psychiatric Manuals 11. Medication Information

Resources by Mental Health Conditions

Understanding Anxiety : Information about various anxiety disorders, including statistics and charts outlining the difference between everyday anxiety and a disorder.

NAMI National on Anxiety Disorders: Outlines symptoms, types, and treatments for various types of anxiety disorders.

Self Help Strategies for GAD : Steps to take to help cope with generalized anxiety disorder.

Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia : The ADAA explains the link between anxiety, panic disorder, and agoraphobia.

Panic Disorder: NIMH explains the signs and symptoms of panic disorder, as well as medically accepted treatments

WorryWiseKids.org : Information about anxiety in children—including indicators of serious or excessive anxiety—and about types and causes of anxiety and ways to treat the condition. The website also includes tips for parents and educators and a list of media resources. (Back to Top) 2. Attention Deficit Disorder

CHADD : Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), is a national organization providing education, advocacy and support for individuals with ADHD.

ADD & ADHD Health Center : ADHD affects an estimated 3% to 5% of children and adults in the U.S. Get ADD and ADHD information here including its causes, diagnosis, and promising treatment.

ADDitude : ADDitude Magazine’s online website with information, strategies and support for persons with ADHD and LD (Learning Disabilities), and for their loved ones. (Back to Top) 3. Bipolar Disorder

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance : DBSA provides hope, help, support, and education to improve the lives of people who have mood disorders. Local DBSA chapters offer support groups and education programs for people with mood disorders and for their families and friends.

Living successfully with a Mood Disorder : This is a course provided by Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) for both the individuals with mood disorder and their caregivers learn about the illness, treatment and create a plan to successfully manage their symptoms and live well.

Balanced Mind Parent Network (BMPN) : (A DBSA program) guides families raising children with mood disorders to the answers, support, and stability they seek.

bphope.com : BP Magazine’s award-winning online community, which seeks to increase awareness of Bipolar Disorder and provide hope and empowerment to those in the Bipolar community (people with Bipolar Disorder, along with their families, caregivers, and health-care professionals

Bipolar Network News : The latest news on bipolar disorder research and treatment

The International Society for Bipolar Disorders : An excellent general website on Bipolar Disorder including “Rays of Hope” a comprehensive online manual. (Back to Top) 4. Borderline Personality Disorder

National Education Alliance for BPD : NEA_BPD provides information and family support programs related to BPD. NEA-BPD offers Family Connections®, a 12-week education course for people in a relationship with someone who has BPD. This class is offered i n-person at various community-based locations around the country, including in the San Francisco Bay Area, and online , as the Family TeleCommunications (TLC) class, which allows family members to “meet” weekly in a virtual classroom via teleconference. To register for either version of the class, complete to the NEA-BPD online Family Connections Registration Form .

Emotions Matter : A non-profit organization created by a network of families and individuals affected by borderline personality disorder (BPD) that offer support groups, education and treatment resources for individuals impacted by BPD, families and professionals.

Stop Walking on Eggshells : This website by Randi Kreger (author of the book Stop Walking on Eggshells) is one of the longest-established, popular, and largest sites about BPD. This site includes a “ Moving Forward Online Family Support Group “ .

BPD Resource Center : The Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center of New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center maintains a database of clinicians, agencies, and facilities nationwide with experience in the treatment of BPD and co-existing disorders. (Back to Top) 5. Conduct Disorder/Antisocial Personality Disorder

PsychopathyIs –  This website lists information and treatment resources for personality spectrum disorder such as Antisocial Personality disorder and Conduct disorders where the individuals have symptoms of Limited Prosocial Emotions, such as callousness, uncaring, and lack of remorse. This website lists treatment options and aids to find the right therapist for you needs. (Back to Top) 6. Depression

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance : The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) strives to empower individuals struggling with depression and bipolar, and offers a wealth of resources, including downloadable educational materials and self-help tools. In addition, DBSA provides an informative guide to finding the right treatment, and offers a support group locator with online and in-person chapters across the United States.

DBSA Silicon Valley :  DBSA Silicon Valley is a local chapter serving the Silicon Valley with peer-led support group meetings, wellness tools, and resource information for the South Bay area. See DBSA Silicon Valley’s meeting calendar for local bay area peer and family/friends support groups.

Families for Depression Awareness : FFDA s a comprehensive resource for families coping with depressive issues. A nationwide nonprofit organization that strives to inform the general public about the signs and symptoms of depression, FFDA also offers much-needed support to depressed individuals and their families. In addition to news, interviews with experts, and training webinars, FFDA offers a “depression wellness analyzer” feature, “mental health family tree” tool, and a “depression and bipolar test.” (Back to Top) 7. Dissociative Disorders

NAMI Dissociative Disorders Page : Outlines symptoms, types, and treatments for various types of dissociative disorders.

Dissociation and Dissociative Disorders : Mental Health America’s explanation of dissociative disorders, including what dissociation is, how common the disorders are, and treatments for the disorders.

Dissociative Identity Disorder : Symptoms and treatment for dissociative identity disorder. (Back to Top) 8. Eating Disorders

Eating Disorders Resource Center (EDRC): Phone: 408-356-1212 . Address: 15891 Los Gatos Almaden Rd, Los Gatos, CA 95032 – The EDRC is a non-profit organization that links resources, information and support for eating disorders in Silicon Valley, by offering an online resources directory, responses to emails and calls, monthly support groups, and education and outreach.

NIMH on Eating Disorders : Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment of different types of eating disorders: NEDA’s take on treatment of and recovery from eating disorders.

Eating Disorders Treatment: Eating Disorder Hope on recovery, treatment, and improving the quality of an eating disorder survivor’s life. (Back to Top) 9 . Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

NAMI Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Page : Provides comprehensive information about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, including an overview, treatment and support options, and a discussion forum.

International OCD Foundation : Provides information about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and related disorders, a nation-wide OCD resource directory, awareness and informational events, and a quarterly newsletter.

OCD San Francisco Bay Area : A community of those who suffer from, care about, and treat people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and other related disorders.

Peace of Mind Foundation : Non-profit organization focused on improving the lives individuals living with OCD and their caregivers through research, education, advocacy, and support. They off valuable resources, such as informative webinars on living with OCD, treatment options and links to support group s . A very helpful website for people with OCD and their families.

San Francisco Task Force on Compulsive Hoarding : This website has links to support groups for people with Hoarding Disorder.

Stanford Rodriguez Lab OCD Resources : Provides resources on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder for both mental health professionals and the public, including disorder description, OCD organizations and research.

Stanford Rodriguez Lab Hoarding Disorder Resources : Provides resources on Hoarding Disorder for both mental health professionals and the public, including disorder description, treatment, support groups, research, OCD organizations and associated services (such home organizing, cleaning & disposal) (Back to Top) 10. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Other Trauma

US Department of Veteran Affairs PTSD Mobile Apps :   VA-developed free mobile applications (apps) that provide self-help, education and support following trauma, for persons with PTSD and for their family members. They also have treatment companion apps for health care provider, that make treatment easier. There are apps for both iOS and Android devices

HelpGuide.org Post Traumatic Stress Disorder : Non-profit organization guide to PTSD information, support, self-help, support, resources and referrals, including “ Helping Someone With PTSD. For help locating a trauma therapist in the U.S., treatment center, or support group in your area, contact the Traumatic Stress Institute (incorporating Sidran Resource & Referral).

National Association of Adult Survivors of Child Abuse (NAASCA) : National organization offering support and education on issues related to childhood abuse and trauma including sexual assault, violent or physical abuse, emotional traumas and neglect.  See list of groups and services in California . (Back to Top) 11. Schizophrenia

Overview of Psychosis & Schizophrenia Symptoms & Treatment : PsychCentral’s pages on Schizophrenia, with basis information, articles and forums on current topics and searchable directory of therapists.

Treating Psychosis : This website is a great resource for people living with psychosis and their friends and family. This website provides helpful, up-to-date information, resources and videos about psychosis and a variety of psychotherapy options proven to help people living with psychosis. Check out their Resource section.

Schizophrenia and Psychosis Action Alliance (formerly SAARDA) : A resource for patients and caregivers affected by schizophrenia. Helpline, support programs, education, collaboration, and advocacy.

Rays of Hope : a comprehensive online manual on schizophrenia from the Schizophrenia Society of Canada . (Back to Top) 12. Schizoaffective Disorder

NAMI Schizoaffective Disorder Page : NAMI National explains schizoaffective disorder, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment.

Wikipedia Page on Schizoaffective Disorder

The Difference Between Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder : Article explaining how Schizoaffective Disorder differs from Schizophrenia (Back to Top) 13. Dual Diagnosis

SAMHSA’s Evidence Based Practice Resource Center – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has downloadable guides with information and resources for people living with dual diagnosis, their families and health providers.

Other Useful Mental Health Links

Parents Helping Parents : Phone: 408-727-5775 , Address: 400 Parkmoor Ave, San Jose, CA 95126 – PHP helps children and adults with special needs (including emotional disabilities) receive the support and services they need by providing information, training and resources. They provide information on the school Special Education (IEP) process and have monthly support group for caregivers of children and teens with depression, anxiety, and/or mood disorders.

REACH (Raising Early Awareness & Creating Hope) : Phone: 885-273-2248 or [email protected] – Santa Clara County program funded by the Mental Health Services Act to provide education for the community in early detection and prevention of psychosis in youth. “We work with young people ages 10-25 and their families to build support and promote success in relationships, education, and employment.”

ASPIRE ( After-School Program Interventions and Resiliency Education) : Phone: 650-988-8468 or 650-962-5855  – An intensive, six-week, 4-day-week after-school treatment program at El Camino Hospital for teenage youths with significant anxiety, depression, or other mental health symptoms. The group-based acute program’s primary goal is to help adolescents achieve emotional wellness, using treatments such as DBT and expressive arts. The program includes individual therapy, group sessions and activities, as well as family involvement. Accepts Medi-Cal, Medicare with approval, and private insurance (such as Blue cross/Blue Shield).

Child Mind Institute : An independent, national non-profit dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families struggling with mental health and learning disorders.  They provide information & research for parents, educators and other professionals.

Child and Adolescent Mental Health : Learn about how depression affects children and adolescents and the direction of future research from the National Institute of Mental Health.

5 Signs Your Teen Needs Mental Health Treatment : An article describing 5 key symptoms to watch for in your adolescent child.

Office of Adolescent Health : A division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Approximately one out of five adolescents has a diagnosable mental health disorder, and nearly one third shows symptoms of depression. Warning signs aren’t always obvious.

Center for Parent Information and Resources : (CIPR) serves as a central resource of information for families of children with disabilities (including emotional disabilities). Provides information on child & adolescent mental illness, and specific information on school-based accommodations and treatment for “emotional disturbance” disabilities .

Lives in the Balance : Founded by Dr. Ross Greene’s, originator of the evidence-based Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model for working with behaviorally challenging kids, at home and in schools, Lives In The Balance offers resources for educating parents and school personnel on what works (collaborative problem solving) and doesn’t work (punishment and tough love) when helping these children.

WorryWiseKids : Web site about anxiety in children—including indicators of serious or excessive anxiety—and about types and causes of anxiety and ways to treat the condition. The website also includes tips for parents and educators and a list of media resources.

Peer Resources for Teens and Adolescents

Crisis Text Line * –  [ text HELLO to 741741 ] Free 24/7 emotional and crisis support for teens (or people of any age).  Text 741741 anywhere in the US to talk to a trained Crisis Counselor.

The LGBTQ Youth Space : A Program of Family & Children Services, with a community drop-in center and mental health program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and ally youth and young adults ages 13-25 who live in Santa Clara County. This web site also has a page of other LGBTQ resources . (Back to Top) 2. Veterans

NAMI for Veterans and Active Duty : NAMI National describes the major mental health concerns for Military Veterans and Active Duty personnel, transitioning to civilian, and how to recognize problems and obtain help and support.

VA Mental Health Home : Authoritative mental health information and resources for Veterans and their families, including a crisis line, screening tools, and information on how to get help.

SAMHSA Veterans and Military Families : Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration leads efforts to ensure that American service men and women and their families can access behavioral health treatment and services.

Military and Veteran Caregivers and Partners : The MVCN supports caregivers of all ages, eras and stages, offering peer support and access to partner organizations’ resources and services, with the goal of increasing caregivers’ connectedness, hopefulness, wellness, knowledge and skills.

Veteran’s Crisis Line Phone: 988, press 1; Text: 838255; or chat online – Veteran’s Crisis Line is a hotline for veterans run by the US Department of Veteran Affairs. Provides support with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, military sexual trauma, family or relationship issues, and more. Free to use, and is open to veterans who are not registered with the VA.

San Jose Vet Center Phone: 408-574-9200, Address: 5855 Silver Creek Valley Place, Third Floor 3A, San Jose 95138  – Provides services to eligible veterans, including individual, group, and family counseling; medical referrals; PTSD evaluations; alcohol & drug treatment referrals; employment counseling; and benefits assistance.

I Need Help for Veterans:   – County Office of Supportive Housing –  Links to shelters and supportive services.

HomeFirst’s Boccardo Reception Center : Phone:  408-786-8538  – Offers the most comprehensive services for homeless veterans in the County, including mental health counseling, employment placement, emergency shelter, transitional housing, and support for families of veterans who are at risk of homelessness.

Office of Veterans Services Phone: 408-918-4980, Address : 68 N. Winchester Blvd. Santa Clara, CA 95050 – Assists veterans through the processes necessary to qualify for disability compensation, non-service connected pension, health care, burial and other benefits from the United States Office of Veterans Services (Back to Top) 3. Seniors and Older Adults

Sourcewise : Since 1973, has provided services and support to seniors in Santa Clara County. Recently expanded to include persons with disabilities and all adults. Offers information and referral, health insurance counseling and advocacy, and senior care management, employment and nutrition services.

Older Adult Prevention and Early Intervention Program (PEI):  Part of Santa Clara County Behavioral Health Adult and Older Adult Specialty Services , PEI provides services for elders 60+ who have never obtained mental care in Santa Clara County, including therapy, rehabilitative counseling, support groups, psychological assessments, psychiatric services, medication, case management.  Services available in English and Spanish.  Accept Medi-Cal and Medicare only. To request services, contact Santa Clara County Mental Health Call Center, Phone: 800-704-0900, Option 2 .

Geriatric Mental Health Foundation : Established to raise awareness of psychiatric and mental health disorders. This website has patient information for older adults and their families.

MedlInePlus Older Adult Mental Health : This page provides links to authoritative websites related to mental illness in older adults. (Back to Top) 4. LGBTQ+

The Q Corner : Phone: 408-961-4497, Address : 1870 Senter Rd, San Jose 95112 – a peer-driven, Behavioral Health Services Department program dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and their friends, families, and allies, in Santa Clara County. Services are free.

The LGBTQ Youth Space : Phone: 408-343-7940, Community drop-in center and mental health program for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning and ally youth and young adults ages 13-25, living in Santa Clara County. Also offers confidential counseling services.

Santa Clara County maintains a  comprehensive list of LGBTQ+ resources , including peer and family support and behavioral health resources. (Back to Top) 5. Mental Health Presentations, Podcasts, Blogs and Apps

NAMI Santa Clara County General Meeting : NAMI Santa Clara County brings a reputable community expert on the first Tuesday of each month to speak about one of the critical areas which directly impact the quality of life for those affected by a mental illness.This monthly General Meeting is open to anyone interested in learning more about mental illness. Upcoming General Meeting topics are announced in the Current NAMI SCC Newsletter

Stanford Medicine Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Grand Rounds : Weekly presentations by and for psychiatry professionals designed to inform them of emerging clinical research and evidence-based practice guidelines to help critically analyze current psychiatric practice methods, and to promote excellence and quality in clinical care .  These presentations assume a high level of clinical knowledge, but are open to the general public.

The Mental Illness Happy Hour : A weekly online podcast that interviews comedians, artists, friends, and the occasional doctor. Each episode explores mental illness, trauma, addiction and negative thinking. Comedian Paul Gilmartin hosts a weekly, hour-long audio podcast consisting of interviews with artists, friends and the occasional doctor. Paul’s hope is that the show and this website will give people a place to connect, smile and feel the return of hope.

Invisibilia : Invisibilia is Latin for “the invisible things.” We explore the invisible forces that shape human behavior — things like ideas, beliefs, assumptions and emotions. In this podcast by NPR, we weave incredible human stories with fascinating new psychological and brain science, in the hopes that after listening, you will come to see new possibilities for how to think, behave and live.

NAMI Blog : Maintained by NAMI National , this blog offers monthly articles on mental health related topics

US Department of Veteran Affairs PTSD Mobile Apps :  VA-developed free mobile applications (apps) that provide self-help, education and support following trauma, for persons with PTSD and for their family members. They also have treatment companion apps for health care provider, that make treatment easier. There are apps for both iOS and Android devices (Back to Top) 6. Treatment Search Sites

SAMHSA Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator : An on-line source of information from SAMHSA (the federal Behavioral Health agency) for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories for substance abuse/addiction and/or mental health problems.

Psychology Today Therapy Search: Find detailed professional listings for Psychologists, Psychiatrists , Therapists, Counselors, Teletherapy (online, phone, video), Group Therapy and Treatment Centers in the United States and Canada.

California Drug and Alcohol Treatment Centers : Treatment Centers Directory is a complete directory of drug and alcohol addiction treatment centers in California.

Find a CBT Therapist : ABCT (Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies) CBT Therapist search site.  Search by Zip Code and/or State, Radies, Speciality, Insurance.and Telehealth. (Back to Top) 7 . Mental Health Recovery Sites

County Mental Health Self-Help Centers : Operated by and for mental health consumers, these Centers provide a safe, confidential and supportive environment for those dealing with mental illness. Services include peer supported events and social activities, 1 on 1 peer support, and WRAP (Wellness Recover Action Plan) groups.

National Empowerment Center : This site presents information and resources that carry a message of recovery, empowerment, hope and healing to people with lived experience with mental health issues, trauma, and and/or extreme states.

National Coalition for Mental Health Recovery : NCMHR is a national coalition of mental health consumer/survivor organizations that advocates for voice in the development and implementation of health care, mental health, and social policies at the state and national levels.

SAMHSA Recovery and Support pages : Federal agency that leads public health efforts to advance behavioral health of the nation. Learn how recovery-oriented care and recovery support systems help people with mental and/or substance use disorders manage their conditions successfully.

Resources to Recovery : Offers families guidance, support and information on the best practices and providers in recovery-oriented mental health care.

Dealing with Cognitive Dysfunction : An excellent handbook from the New York State Office of Mental Health about dealing with the cognitive dysfunction often associated with psychiatric disabilities.

National Mental Health Consumers’ Self-Help Clearinghouse :  Provides current information on mental health and consumer/survivor issues, news sources, funding opportunities and the most recent developments in the consumer/survivor movement.  They list resources like self-help advocacy guides and training materials, as well as links to other consumer organization. (Back to Top) 8. Support and Advocacy Groups

7 Cups is a  website (and also a mobile app ) providing free support to people experiencing emotional distress by connecting them with non-professional listeners trained in active listening. The listener interacts with the person seeking help via anonymous and confidential chat.  Listeners are rated by peers and those to whom they listen. 7 Cups also provides chat support groups and referrals to therapists.  View the 7 Cups Flyer .

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance : (previously known as the National Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association) Maintains a list of local support groups.

My Support Forums is an online community of psychology, personality, and mental health support group forums.

Mental Health America : Gives a list of local support groups and much useful information.

Take Action for Mental Health : Take Action for Mental Health is the campaign for California’s ongoing mental health movement. The primary goal for  Take Action for Mental Health  is to help Californians support their mental health and the mental health of people they care about.

The Mighty : A digital health community created to empower and connect people facing health challenges and disabilities, that offers stories that inspire people and help improve the lives of people facing disease, disorder and disability. Discussion topics include mental health .

Treatment Advocacy Center : A national nonprofit organization working to eliminate barriers to timely treatment of severe mental illness.

Balanced Mind Parent Network (BMPN) : (A DBSA program) guides families raising children with mood disorders to the answers, support, and stability they seek. (Back to Top) 9. General Mental Health Information

About Mental Illness : from the NAMI National website .

Mental Health Information : Information from the National Institute of Mental Health that answers many common questions about mental illness.

MentalHealth.gov : a website from the Department of Health and Human Services provides information about the signs of mental illness, how individuals can seek help and how communities can host conversations about mental health.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): The lead federal agency for research and public education on mental disorders.

PsychCentral : Since 1995, the Internet’s largest and oldest independent mental health social network, run by mental health professionals offering information and resources.

HealthyPlace.com : Consumer mental health site, providing comprehensive information on psychological disorders and psychiatric medications from both a consumer and expert point of view. Offers social support, online psychological tests, mental health news, mental health videos, a live mental health tv and radio show and more.

Mental Health America (MHA ) – A community-based nonprofit dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting mental health for all, including prevention, early identification and intervention for those at risk, and integrated care and treatment with recovery as the goal.

Brain & Behavior Research Foundation : (Formerly NARSAD) – a mental health research foundation website that offers some of the most current information on mental health research studies , articles and news. (Back to Top) 10 . Online Psychiatric Manuals

The Merck Manual Consumer Version : Learn about classification and diagnosis of mental illness symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

DSM Psychiatric Diagnosis – (from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – DSM-IV) : An online abbreviated consumer version of the main diagnostic reference for mental health in the USA.

PubMed : PubMed ( pubmed.gov ) is a free resource developed and maintained by the  National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)  at the  National Library of Medicine ® (NLM). It provides free access to MEDLINE which is NLM’s database of citations and abstracts in the fields of medicine, nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine, health care systems, and preclinical sciences. (Back to Top) 11. Medication Information

Mental Health Medications – NAMI National website list of common psychiatric medication, by generic name order.  From this page, you can link to a wealth of other related information (how to select psychiatric medications, risks, side effects, other considerations)

Extensive consumer information : Drugs.com is the most popular, comprehensive and up-to-date source of drug information online.

National Library of Medicine : Learn about your prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines. Includes side effects, dosage, special precautions, and more.

SAFEMEDICINES Safe Savings : Offers general prescription drug savings ideas, with links to Prescription Assistance Programs for those who cannot afford medications.

NeedyMeds : Non-profit web site listing Patient Assistance Programs that help people afford medications and health care costs.

Partnership for Prescriptions Assistance : Helps qualifying patients without prescription drug coverage get medicines for free or nearly free.

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