Addressing Teen Mental Health Challenges

A Mental Health Toolkit for Teens

For a full list of resources, please see the Resources section at the end of this toolkit.

How to Support a Friend in Crisis Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
Crisis Text Line Crisis Text Line
Text: “LA” to 741741
California Coalition for Youth Call/text 1-800-843-5200
Teen Line Call/text 800-852-8336
Text “Teen” to 839863
Hours: 6pm-10pm
Trevor Project Call 1-866-488-7386
211 LA County Call 211
988 Suicide & Crisis Line Call/text 988
Accessing Mental Health Services Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
Los Angeles County Department of Health Services Call 844-804-0055
Hours: 7am-7pm,
Monday-Friday; 8am-4:30pm, Saturday
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Get help applying for free or low-cost health coverage
Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services Apply for Medi-Cal
Suicide: Thoughts, Behaviors and Attempts California Youth Crisis Line Call/text 800-843-5200
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call/text 988
Teen Line Call 800-852-8336
Text “Teen” 839863
Hours: 6pm-10pm
Stress, Anxiety and Depression The Trevor Project Call 1-866-488-7386
CalHOPE Call 833-317-4673
Live chat
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call/text 988
Healthy Relationships Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
Love is Respect Call 1-800-331-9474
TTY 1-800-787-3224
Text “LOVEIS” to 22522
Live chat
National Domestic Violence Hotline Call 1-800-799-7233
TTY 1-800-787-3224
Text “START” to 88788
Live chat
National Sexual Assault Hotline Call 800-656-4673
TTY 1-800-787-3224
Live chat
Social Media Safety CyberTipline Report child sexual exploitation
End to Cyberbullying, Inc. Call 1-772-202-3822
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s Call Center Call 1-800-843-5678
Take It Down Remove online nude, partially nude, or sexually explicit photos or videos.
Alcohol and Drug Use Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Substance Use Treatment Network Visit Service & Bed Availability Tool (SBAT)
Find out if you qualify
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Substance Abuse Service Helpline Call 1-844-804-7500
Recover LA Mobile App Visit their website
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Call 1-800-662-4357
Trauma Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Office of Violence Prevention Call 626-293-2610
Teen Line Call 800-852-8336
Text “TEEN” to 839863
At a Glance
Signs of crises graph of concern of friend may hurt themselves
Crisis Lines & Resources
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
Crisis Text Line Crisis Text Line
Text: “LA” to 741741
California Coalition for Youth Call/text 1-800-843-5200
Teen Line Call/text 800-852-8336
Text “Teen” to 839863
Hours: 6pm-10pm
Trevor Project Call 1-866-488-7386
211 LA County Call 211
988 Suicide & Crisis Line Call/text 988
Things to Keep in Mind

Friends experiencing a crisis may feel scared, worried, overwhelmed, and or unsure of the specific help that they need9 and your support may be crucial to ensure that they get the timely help that they need. During periods of stress or after experiencing a loss or trauma, for example, having a support system of friends and loved ones makes recovering from challenges a bit easier.

What is a mental health crisis?

A mental health crisis is when someone is at risk of causing harm to themselves or others, usually paired with extreme emotions and behaviors that are out of control.

What are signs of a crisis?

Warning signs may include:

  • Expressing thoughts of self-harm (for example, “I want to die” or “I don’t want to be here anymore”)
  • Making threats to harm others or themselves
  • Exhibiting self-injurious behavior (for example, cutting or burning)
  • Exhibiting severe aggression and agitation (for example, physical aggression, destroying property, hostility)
  • Experiencing hallucinations or being delusional
  • Completely isolating themselves
What can I do to a friend experiencing a crisis?

The very first thing to do is determine whether the crisis puts anyone in danger, including your friend experiencing the crisis. Is this situation an emergency? Keeping everyone safe is top priority.

If Immediate Danger is Present

If you are worried that your friend will harm themselves now or in the immediate future, there are two pathways to prevent this from happening: contact a trusted adult that can drive them to the nearest emergency room or call 911. It’s important to know that in this difficult situation each option has challenges, which are important to understand as you choose how best to proceed seeking appropriate care for your friend.

What happens if a teen is driven to the hospital for a mental health crisis?

If a teen is driven to the hospital, it should only be done if it’s believed that they will remain safe and under control in the car. When a teen is taken to the emergency room (ER), they will be “voluntarily” admitted which allows their parent(s)/guardian(s) to see them while they are there and remain as the ultimate decision makers in the length of the teen’s stay. However, depending on how equipped the chosen ER is for adequately dealing with a mental health crisis, there may be long wait times or the teen may be transferred to a different hospital.

What happens when a teen is hospitalized for a mental health crisis?

Trained hospital staff may determine that the mental health crisis requires admission to the hospital. In this case, your friend’s guardian will have regular communication with the medical team. Your friend may benefit from individual therapy, group therapy and/or prescribed medication. They may also receive treatment at a residential or partial hospitalization program (PHP). Healthcare professionals may also determine that it is safe for your friend to return home. Know that if you aided in having your friend transported to an ER for safety during a mental health crisis you have provided lifesaving support. It is important that their appointed guardian understands how best to advocate for your friend’s needs. Referring them to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s Mental Health Toolkit for Parents and Guardians of Teens is a great resource to share with your friend’s family.

It’s important to understand that everyone’s needs and responses during a mental health crisis are different and the differences in family dynamics and support systems around your friend play critical roles. Try and keep an open mind and be sure to care for yourself when assisting a friend in crisis, including ensuring that you, too, have supports in place.

What happens if a call is placed to 911 for a teen in a mental health crisis?

When police are contacted to respond to a teen mental health crisis, a Crisis Intervention Officer will either meet your friend at their home or at the police station and admit them into the hospital. After admission, your friend cannot be contacted for the next 24 to 72 hours, while they are under observation and receiving the needed intervention.

  • Inform the 911 operators that your friend is experiencing a mental health crisis
    • This will help them connect you with trained responders for youth mental health crises
  • Request a Crisis Intervention Trained Officer
    • These youth crisis teams are specialists and are trained to intervene in a situation like this
  • Provide your name and relationship to the teen
  • Provide the location/address where your friend in crisis is located
  • Provide as much detail about the situation as you can
    • Are they suicidal, aggressive, threatening someone, off their medication?
  • Stay on the phone until the dispatcher asks you to hang up

As mentioned above, helping a friend through a mental health crisis can be challenging. However, there is no “wrong” way to help a someone when they are in a mental health crisis. The end goal is the same: for your friend to be safe, healthy and well.

Crisis Lines & Resources
  • Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health
    • Help Line: 800-854-7771
      • This is the entry point for mental health services with Department of Mental Health
      • Access line (option 1) is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week (24/7), and includes the following services:
        • Mental health screening and assessment
        • Referral to service provider
        • Crisis counseling
        • Mobilizing field response teams
        • Linkages to other services and resources
      • Emotional Support Warm Line (option 2) is available 10:30am-9pm daily
      • Veteran Line (option 3) is available 9am-8pm daily
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
    • This is the national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress
    • 24/7 throughout the U.S., via phone (dial 988), text (text 988), or online chat
  • Crisis Text Line
    • Connect with trained counselors or receive free crisis support via text message
    • Text “LA” to 741741
  • California Coalition for Youth
    • California statewide emergency response system for youth (ages 12 to 24) and families in crisis. Professionally trained staff and volunteers provide counseling and resource referrals to service providers in the caller’s local community.
    • 24/7
    • Call 1-800-843-5200
    • Text 1-800-843-5200
    • Email them
  • Disaster Distress Helpline
    • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline provides crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.
    • Call 1-800-985-5990
  • Trevor Project Lifeline
    • The Trevor Project Lifeline provides support to LGBTQ+ youth and allies in crisis or in need of a safe and judgement-free place to talk.
    • Call 1-866-488-7386
  • 211 LA County
    • 211 LA County is the hub for all types of health, human and social services in Los Angeles County, providing callers with information and referrals to the services that best meet their needs.
    • Dial 211
  • Family Urgent Response System (FURS)
    • FURS is a free hotline for current or former foster youth up to age 21 and their caregivers to receive phone, text, chat and/or in-person support when needed for any issues, big or small.
    • 24/7
    • Call or text 1-833-939-3877
    • Dial 211
    • Visit CAL-FURS.org
If Immediate Danger is Not Present
Video credit: National Alliance on Mental Illness (nami.org)

During a mental health crisis, logical thinking is disrupted. The best thing you can do for your friend in this moment is to make them feel safe, make sure their physical needs are met, and help them to remain calm.

Remember that the words you choose when communicating with a friend in need of mental health support with matter greatly during this period of challenge and can impact how the conversation is received. Learn more about this by reading Your Language Matters.

When to Turn to an Adult

Friends often naturally feel comfortable sharing personal information with their peers. At some point, you may feel that the support they need is beyond what you can offer. Even more, you may realize that an adult’s help is needed. In these situations, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you spot any of the following signs, it would be a good idea to involve a responsible adult:

  1. If you’re worried about their safety: If your friend is hurting themselves, talking about it, or talking about hurting others.
  2. You have reason to believe your friend is developing an eating disorder: eating disorders are a serious health threat.
  3. If you have reason to believe that they are experiencing a psychotic break such as they are experiencing hallucinations or beliefs that aren’t realistic.
  4. If the situation feels more adult thant you should be/or are comfortable dealing with. Does it feel like you may be too young for the information being shared? Does your gut tell you something doesn’t feel right? Go with that feeling and ask an adult for help.
  5. If your own mental health is being impacted. If you, too, are feeling anxious, depressed, or are considering harming yourself, it is important that you also seek help from a trusted person in your life.
If I turn to an adult, will I be betraying my friend?

It is natural to fear that you are betraying your friend’s trust after they’ve shared sensitive information with you. Follow these two steps to let your friend know that you think it would be best to bring in an adult’s help:

  1. Tell them why you feel it’s time to bring in an adult. Let them know you are concerned and would like to seek additional support. Let them know you are doing it because you care for them.
  2. If you’re comfortable doing so, you might want to offer being there for the conversation with the adult. Sometimes this is helpful in buffering the conversation and your friend can feel supported.

If your friend still asks you not to share the information with an adult, but you feel that not doing so will only leave them or someone else in harm’s way, prioritize safety - tell an adult.

You’ve been feeling “off” for some time now. Maybe it’s time to talk to someone about what you’re feeling. How can you know if it is time to ask for help?

It may be time to ask for help when your difficulties with feelings, emotions, thoughts or behaviors:

Video credit: National Alliance on Mental Illness (nami.org)
  1. Are too intense or cause distress
  2. Last more than two weeks
  3. Get in the way of daily life, causing difficulties sleeping, eating, concentrating, working, enjoying things or relating to others
  4. Keep you away from your friendships
  5. Come with other problems, like alcohol or drug abuse, thoughts of hurting yourself, or aggressive behavior
  6. Lead you to risky behavior and decisions

It is important to remember that you are not alone. You have a community of people that may be trusted to help you through difficult times. Parents, guardians, counselors, teachers, doctors, friends and other trusted adults can keep you safe and guide you toward support. This toolkit offers resources and information to help you manage your mental health. The Mental Health Toolkit for Parents and Guardians of Teens offers resources and information for trusted adults in your life to help you manage your mental health.

Help From a Parent

It is normal to feel uncertain or worried about sharing something that is personal and emotional with a loved one, especially a parent. It is also important to share that you may be experiencing mental health challenges with your parents so that they know what you are going through and can help you through it. Follow these tips to get the conversation started:

  1. Plan what you want to share. Think about how you will explain what you are experiencing. Provide 1-2 detailed examples of what you are feeling to help them understand where you’re coming from. Jot down 1-2 ways that you would like them to support you in overcoming this mental health challenge. Writing down notes while you prepare can be helpful in making sure you don’t forget what you wanted to share with them.
  2. Find a private space to talk. Find a place and a time when you can have some privacy, away from other family members or distractions. Sometimes it helps to get out of the house and go for a walk or go to the park. If you have your phones with you, silence them or place them on vibrate to eliminate distractions during the conversation so that you can focus.
  3. Explain as clearly as you can. This is where your notes can come in handy. Do your best to be clear and specific about what you are experiencing and how you are feeling. Give your parents the space to ask questions. If at any point you start to feel overwhelmed or anxious, ask to pause the conversation for a minute or two, take some deep breaths and collect your thoughts, then resume. Don’t let your emotions get in the way of you expressing what you are experiencing, and do not give up and walk away from the conversation. It is important to be clear with your feelings and experiences so that your support needs can be met.
  4. Share possible next steps. If you have some ideas about how they can help you, this is the time to bring them up. If you do not, that is ok! How about sharing the Mental Health Toolkit for Parents of Teens with them? It’s full of mental health information, tips, activities you can do together and resources to support you.
  5. Keep the conversation going. Keeping the line of communication open is just as important as taking that first step to have a conversation. Welcome your parent to follow up with you and likewise make sure that you keep them up to date with how you are feeling, including what’s helping or might be making things worse, and what additional help you may like to have, etc.

It may be that your feelings are not fully understood by your parents. While this can be disappointing, it is important to remember that this is not a dead end, just a bump in the road! Sometimes it’s difficult for people who have never experienced - or recognized that they have experienced- mental health challenges of their own, to be supportive. Sometimes parents are unclear about how to best address their child’s mental health challenges because it is the first time they are being exposed to this situation.

Parents may…

  • Feel guilty or blame themselves for what you’re experiencing
  • Be worried about the cost of professional help
  • Have distrust of mental health care clinicians
  • Believe that emotional or mental health problems should be dealt with privately, and that they can be “fixed” through trying harder or prayer instead of professional treatment
Here are some steps you may want to take if your parents are not being as supportive at this time:
  1. Explain the steps you’ve taken so far. You can let them know about what you have done to manage this on your own, such as, self-care techniques, breathing exercises or sharing with a friend or loved one. Ask if they’d be open to identify more ways to help you.
  2. Let them know about resources and affordable options. It can be helpful to take a bit of time to research some mental health care options that you think may be a good fit for you. Bring those suggestions to the conversation with your parents. Suggestions may include talking with a school counselor, scheduling an appointment with your current medical provider, or activities that you may be able to do together that will support your resiliency. There are several resources found throughout this toolkit and the Mental Health Toolkit for Parents and Guardians of Teens.
  3. Talk to another trusted adult. Is there someone else in your family (i.e., sibling, grandparent, aunt) who you think might be more understanding of how you’re feeling? Is there a close family friend of faith leader that you could meet with? Think about your social support system and make a list of people other than your parent(s) that may be willing to lend an ear.
Help From a Friend

If you are experiencing mental health challenges, it can be difficult to reach out for help. Friends are a vital part of a healthy social system of support and can certainly be allies in helping to get you the care you need and deserve. Sometimes just having someone to talk to can lessen stressful feelings that you may be experiencing.

Below are suggestions to keep in mind when reaching out to a friend about your mental health:
  1. Identify who you want to talk to. Who do you feel most comfortable talking to among your circle of friends? Think about who is reliable and respectful of your thoughts, feelings, and time.
  2. Plan what you want to share. Think about how you will explain what you are experiencing. Provide 1-2 examples of what you are feeling, this can help them understand where you’re coming from. Jot down 1-2 ways that they may be able to support you in overcoming this mental health challenge. Writing down notes while you prepare can be helpful in making sure that you don’t forget what you wanted to share with them even if emotions are running high.
  3. Determine level of privacy. If you want something to be kept in confidential, make it very clear. However, it is important to trust your friend’s judgement when it comes to your safety and if/when it may be best for them to seek an adult for further help.
  4. Pick a time and place. Find a place and a time when you can talk, away from distractions. Sometimes it helps to go for a walk or go to the park.
  5. Explain as clearly as you can. This is where your notes can come in handy! Do your best to be clear and specific about what you are experiencing and how you would like to be helped. Give your friend the space to ask questions. If at any point you start to feel overwhelmed or anxious, ask to pause the conversation for a minute or two, take some deep breaths and collect your thoughts, then resume. Try not to let your emotions get in the way of you expressing what you are experiencing. Do not give up and walk away from the conversation, try and hold tight to the idea that your friend is your confidant, and they are there to support your health and happiness.
Help From School

Most schools are equipped with counselors to offer mental health guidance and resources. Ask to schedule an appointment by contacting your school’s mental health services or via a trusted teacher or school staff member.

If you are a student in the Los Angeles County Unified School District (LAUSD), School Mental Health is available to you and your family. A range of mental health services provide treatment and support to equip students to thrive and live successfully. Services are provided at schools, clinics, Wellness Centers and various programs in LAUSD. Call 213-241-3840 for Los Angeles Unified Student and Family Wellness Hotline.

To access mental health treatment, LAUSD is using telehealth technology to deliver a range of mental health services for students. All students can access this higher level of mental health care by contacting one of LAUSD’s mental health clinics or Wellness Center in your area (listed at the link below). If you would like to access mental health services, please click the link below and follow instructions on how to submit a referral. You can also call (213) 241-3840 and request mental health services.

Click to Access SMH Clinic/Wellness Center Referrals

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis and needs immediate assistance, please call "911" or “988” and explain the nature of your problem. 911 will bring you to a police operator and 988 will bring you to a counselor trained in mental health crisis response.

Getting the type of mental health support that you need is critical to your wellbeing and achievement of successful life outcomes. Both Federal and State laws require that health plans provide treatment for mental health and substance use disorder conditions. Most recently amended in 2020, California’s Mental Health Parity Act requires commercial health plans and insurers to provide full coverage for treatment of all mental health conditions and substance use disorders. However, many plans don’t cover certain mental health services. It’s important to keep in mind which plans cover mental health services “in network,” versus “out of network” because that will have a large impact on the overall cost.

It can be draining to spend time figuring out insurance coverage while also going through a mental health crisis. The good news is that many of the mental health providers you work with are equipped to help you. Some programs even have staff whose sole purpose is to work with families and insurance companies to support getting medically necessary care for teens.

Don’t have health insurance? Find it hard to navigate? In Los Angeles County, the Community Health Outreach Initiatives work to reduce the number of uninsured residents through coordinated outreach efforts for people of all ages in all communities across Los Angeles County. Multiple agencies are available in every Service Planning Area (SPA) to support clients seeking assistance with enrollment into health insurance or with troubleshooting using existing coverage. See Get Help Applying for Free or Low-Cost Health Coverage and call one of the listed agencies that corresponds to your neighborhood. The agencies have bilingual staff that can assist you with enrolling in a private or public health insurance plan, ensuring utilization of services, and with renewing existing coverage.

Once you’re enrolled in a health plan, you will need a referral from your primary care doctor, your behavioral care provider, or your health plan. If your plan allows it, you may be able to make an appointment directly with a behavioral care provider. Otherwise, you will need to get authorization first. You can always call the number on your Health Plan Membership Card to ask about seeing a behavioral health care provider.

If you have Medi-Cal, services include outpatient mental health services such as individual or group counseling, outpatient specialty mental health services, inpatient mental health services, outpatient substance use disorder services, residential treatment services, and voluntary inpatient detoxification. Contact your Medi-Cal managed care plan or call the Medi-Cal Mental Health Care Ombudsman at 1-800-896-4042 and ask for an assessment or needed services.

Navigating health insurance can feel like you’re jumping through hoops. Don’t let that discourage you from seeking the care you need. Always advocate for yourself. Use the various tools and resources found throughout this toolkit to access services that will provide the level of mental health support that is right for you. For a comprehensive list of resources, please visit the Resources section of this toolkit.

Teens With Special Healthcare Needs

If you are a person with a developmental disability, you can receive mental health care through a regional center.

  1. To be eligible for regional center services, you must have a substantial disability that began before your 18th birthday and is expected to continue indefinitely. Persons interested in regional center services must first obtain a diagnosis and assessment of their disability from a regional center.
  2. There are 7 Regional Centers in Los Angeles County. The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health provides more information on their Regional Centers webpage.
  3. For more information about regional center services, supports and eligibility, visit the Depatment of Developmental Services – Regional Centers.
Foster Youth

Being in foster care can be difficult and feel lonely at times, but you are not alone.

  1. The Foster Youth Rights Handbook can help foster youth learn about available rights and services available here in Los Angeles and across the state of California.
  2. Whether in need of assistance with mental health services, school, employment, living independently, or looking for other resources, the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is a great starting point. Learn about health insurance, mental health, substance abuse, sexual and reproductive health and expectant youth services available by visiting DCFS’ Health and Mental Health page.
  3. The Department of Mental Health, DCFS and other community providers have come together to form the Multidisciplinary Assessment Team (MAT) to ensure the immediate and comprehensive assessment of children and youth entering out-of-home placement. Learn about the MAT program here.
  4. If you need immediate help, you can call the Family Urgent Response System (FURS), which includes a free 24/7/365 hotline for current of former foster youth (up to age 21) and caregivers to call and get immediate help and in-person support when needed for any issues, big or small. Call or text FURS at 1-833-939-3877.
LGBTQIA+ Teens

When it comes to mental health support, it is important to connect with someone who understands your daily challenges. Los Angeles County is home to organizations that provide safe spaces, affirm who you are, help you love yourself, provide counseling and mental health services.

  1. Bienestar serves Greater Los Angeles, focusing on identifying and addressing emerging health issues faced by Latinx and LGBTQ+ populations. Their Youth Empowerment Program encourages the development of thought leaders and change-makers. They provide an affirming environment to foster relationships, build personal and professional skills, and nurture the evolution of identity. The program is open to young queer people between 18 and 25.
  2. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles: Center for Transyouth Health and Development (CTYHD) provides affirming care for transgender and gender diverse children, adolescents, young adults and their families. The Center partners with youth and their families to advance the field through innovative practice, training and research.
  3. Colors LGBTQ Youth Counseling Services provides free LGBTQIA+ affirmative counseling and healing psychotherapeutic services to youth under 25 and their families in greater Los Angeles.
  4. Kaleidoscope supports LGBTQIA+/Questioning neurodivergent and neurotypical youth, young adults and their families in building healthy relationships, strong social connections and critically needed life skills. They provide affirming mental health services, social support and life skills coaching to help each person realize their unique potential and thrive!
  5. Los Angeles LGBT Center is one of the largest and most experienced providers of LGBT health and mental healthcare, supported by a research team working to advance the care and treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people. They accept Medi-Cal, Medicare, most major insurance plans, and some HMOs. If you are uninsured, we can help you get insurance through Covered California
  6. Penny Lane Center’s LGBTQ+ Programs are designed to help LGBTQ+ youth and their families find the support they need, while helping to create safe and welcoming spaces.
  7. Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance is for LGBTQ+ youth and allies in the Inland Empire. They provide a safe space for youth to meet, make friends and participate in their weekly events and activities. They offer support and resources for gender affirmation and community building. They also have a parent/caregiver program!
Males & Teens of Color

Mental health care is just as important as our annual physical. However, the stigmas related to mental health care services continue to affect and limit the access to services for those who identify as a male or male of color. The following are resources for you.

  1. Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health’s iPrevail Program provides 24/7 online support where LA students have an opportunity to chat with a peer coach to discuss personal challenges, enroll in a program, or interact in a virtual community to learn healthy habits, ways to manage stress, or lessen anxiety.
  2. Mental Health America of California provides mental health resources, support and services to live a full and productive life.
  3. My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) was launched by former President Obama in February 2014. The President called upon cities, counties, and tribal governments to make a commitment to improving outcomes for boys and young men of color. The MBK Challenge outlines six goal areas to increase education, employment, and safety.
  4. If you need immediate help, you can call the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to educating, advocating, supporting, and building better lives for the millions of individuals & families affected by mental illness.
  5. TherapyForBlackMen.org provides proactive, multiculturally competent care to men of color through partnership with licensed mental health professionals and coaches in private practice.

Are you having thoughts of, or attempting, to commit suicide now? You don’t have to go through this alone. Counselors are available!

California Youth Crisis Line Call/text 800-843-5200
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call/text 988
Teen Line Call 800-852-8336
Text “Teen” to 839863
Hours: 6pm-10pm
The Trevor Project Call 1-866-488-7386
Suicide info image
9Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). CDC WONDER Online Database About Underlying Cause of Death, 1999-2020. Retrieved from https://wonder.cdc.gov/ucd-icd10.html
Suicide was the third leading cause of death among LA County youth ages 10–24 between 2016 and 202010. Suicide attempts among this same age group were even more common – for every youth suicide death, 16 youth were treated for suicide attempts11, 12. People who experience violence and/or feel isolated, depressed, or anxious are more likely to attempt suicide. Social support from family, peers, teachers, coaches, and other forms of community plays a positive, vital role in suicide prevention and supporting teen mental health for years to come10.

Although it can feel uncomfortable, suicide prevention starts with having conversations about suicide, self-harm, and other suicidal behaviors. Learning about suicide warning signs and having a plan for what to do in moments of crisis is important for you. Having an open discussion with your parents or another trusted adult is critical to supporting your wellbeing. This section will teach you how to do just that.

What are signs that I might be having suicidal thoughts?
  • You talk about it (using both specific language and context clues)
  • You look for ways to end your life (planning or seeking access to lethal means)
  • You may be inclined to give away your prized possessions
  • Feeling like you want to visit, text, or call people to say “goodbye”
  • Signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety
  • Expressing relief or other sudden improvement in difficult circumstance is a questionable behavior if you are having suicidal thoughts

What strategies can I adopt to help with suicidal thoughts?

  • Connect with peers, mentors, and other loved ones.
  • Try to have frequent, consistent conversations with friends and loved ones about managing emotions, healthy coping skills, and conflict resolution.
  • Practice spiritual and cultural traditions and rituals.
  • Find trusted and competent mental health care providers that reflect your family’s culture, beliefs, and/or values
  • Remove access to lethal means (firearms, stockpiled medications, other weapons)
  • Speak up and look for safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth, disabled youth, youth of color, and other underrepresented groups at school and other shared community locations.
If I suspect that I am at risk for harming myself, what can I do to prevent it?
  • Talk to someone now. Ask your parent, another trusted adult, or a friend for help.
  • Call, text, or chat with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
    • They available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    • They provide free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
Video credit: SeizeTheAwkard.org
Where can I get more information and support?

There are five common mental health challenges impacting teens just like you in Los Angeles County and across the nation. If you are experiencing any of the following, know that you are not alone and there are people and organizations that can help you.

  • Abuse and unhealthy relationships
  • Alcohol and substance abuse
  • Stress, anxiety, depression
  • Suicide
  • Trauma

The following sections address the above mental health challenges, with the goal of ensuring that you can recognize warning signs, are able to identify clear steps to address the challenge and connect you to resources that will provide needed support. For more resources and information, check out the Resources section of this toolkit. Of course, we also encourage you to contact a professional mental health provider. If you need help obtaining health insurance or locating a health professional, please see the Accessing Mental Health Services section of this toolkit.

Stress, Anxiety and Depression

Are you experiencing stress, anxiety or depression now? You don’t have to go through this alone. Counselors are available!

CalHOPE Call 833-317-4673
Live chat
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Call/text 988

Daily stressors can have an effect your mental health. It isn’t uncommon for people to feel stress, anxiety or depression when it becomes too much to handle. In fact, in 2021, California middle and high school students completed a survey in which 63% said they had an emotional meltdown in the past year and 43% said they had a panic or anxiety attack15. Another study found that in California, over 284,000 youth cope with major depression and 66% do not receive treatment. Twenty-two percent of students surveyed in 2021 said they missed three or more school days because of their mental health16.

We all face daily stressors. However, when daily stressors start to get in the way of your day-to-day life or isolate you from the people and/or things you love, it becomes an area of concern that requires your attention. Coping with stress in a healthy way will help your mental health, improve relationships with those around you and often increase your productivity.

What is stress?

Stress is a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation13. Stress is a natural human response that can allow us to address challenges and threats in our lives. We all experience stress; but how we deal with it can make a big difference to our health, wellbeing, and how we interface with the world around us14.

What are the signs that I am experiencing stress?

Some signs include:

  • Feeling anger, sadness, worry,
    numbness
  • Changes in interests, appetite, desires, energy
  • Nightmares or trouble sleeping
  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions
  • Physical signs: body pains, skin rashes,
    nauseous, headaches
What is anxiety?

Anxiety is an internal reaction to stress. It involves a recurring feeling of uneasiness or dread that interferes with how you live your life10. It is a natural and important emotion because it signals that danger or sudden, threating change is near. However, prolonged anxiety over time is unhealthy.

What are signs that my teen is experiencing anxiety?

Some signs include:

  • Excessive fear and worry
  • Inner restlessness
  • Excessively cautious and vigilant
  • Continuous nervousness
  • Physical signs: muscle tension, cramps, headaches, stomach aches, fatigue
What is depression?

Depression is a common and serious mood disorder that can present in many ways. Depression can cause symptoms that affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities.

Types of depression17:

  • Major depression
  • Persistent depressive disorder
  • Perinatal depression
  • Seasonal affective disorder
  • Depression with symptoms of psychosis
What are signs that I am experiencing depression?

Some signs of depression include:

  • Feelings of sadness, emptiness, loneliness, hopelessness
  • Little to no interest in activities
  • Changes in appetite, sleep patterns, weight, hygiene
  • Thoughts about death or suicide
What steps can help me when I’m experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression?
  1. A healthy body supports a healthy mind: Eat nutritious meals, get quality sleep, and exercise regularly.
  2. Take a news and social media break: These can trigger stress and anxiety, take regular breaks from screen time.
  3. Unwind: This is important, especially after a stressful day. Try deep breathing exercises, stretching or yoga, and/or mindfulness practices.
  4. Make time for the things that bring you joy: Go for a bike ride, bake a cake, choreograph a dance, or hang out with your friend.
  5. The news and social media can trigger stress and anxiety. Be sure that your teen takes regular breaks from screen time; this may include limiting your own screen time to model the advantages to taking breaks
  6. Connect with others: Family and friends are usually great support systems. You may also want to get involved in school or community groups that support your interests.

Seek professional support if:

  • Stress/anxiety begins to take over your life
  • Stress/anxiety limits your activities
  • Anxiety has been persistent for over 6 months
  • Depression has been present for over 2 weeks
Where can I get more information and support?
What activities can help me with my stress, anxiety or depression?
  1. Watch videos to learn about developing coping skills: Deep breathing, Increasing favorite activities calming your mind, catch, check and change your thoughts (part 1) (part 2)
  2. Schedule time for at least one of the many activities in the Guided Self-Management Tools for Depression, including: Mood Tracking, Thinking Traps, Relaxation Skills, Problem Solving
Video credit: MindfulnessForTeens.com

Are you currently experiencing an abusive or unhealthy relationship? You don’t have to go through this alone. Support is available!

Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Call 800-854-7771
Love is Respect Call 1-800-331-9474
TTY 1-800-787-3224
Text “LOVEIS” to 22522
Live chat
National Domestic Violence Hotline Call 1-800-799-7233
TTY 1-800-787-3224
Text “LOVEIS” to 88788
Live chat
National Sexual Assault Hotline Call 800-656-4673
Live chat

Your teen years are where you learn to form safe and healthy relationships with friends, parents, caregivers, mentors, and romantic partners. These relationships allow you to explore different identities and roles and contribute to the development of your identity. Keep in mind that meaningful relationships are meant to add value to your life. Relationships that are or become stressful, rather than helpful and uplifting, negatively affect your mental health and wellbeing.

If these relationships are unhealthy, they can negatively affect your mental health and life. More people experience unhealthy relationships than you may have been led to believe and that is because they may be afraid to tell anyone out feelings of embarrassment, shame, or trauma. Here are some interesting statistics on teen dating violence18:

  1. 1 in 10 high school students has been purposely hit, slapped, or physically hurt by a boyfriend or girlfriend.
  2. 52% of teens who experience digital abuse are also physically abused.
  3. Only 33% of teens who were in an abusive relationship ever told anyone about the abuse.
  4. Only 9% of abused teens seek help, and rarely from a parent or teacher.

In this section you will learn the signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships, types of abuse, what to do if you are in an unhealthy or abusive relationship and you’ll learn about resources to support you as you deal with this challenge.

What makes a relationship healthy?

In a healthy relationship, you should feel safe and comfortable. Respect for yourself and others is a foundational component of a healthy relationship. Important characteristics of a healthy relationship include:

  1. Mutual respect – Each person values the other and understands their boundaries
  2. Honesty – Each person is truthful and trusts the other
  3. Compromise – Each acknowledges different points of view and is willing give and take
  4. Individuality – No one must compromise who they are; their identity is not based on their partner’s; they continue to see their friends and do the things they love
  5. Healthy sexual relationship (if applicable) – Partners feel comfortable, they consent, they don’t feel pressured or forced to engage in a sexual relationship
Learn more: Healthy relationships
Learn more: About Dating
Image credit: LoveIsRespect.org
What makes a relationship unhealthy?

One of the biggest signs of an unhealthy relationship is a power imbalance. A power imbalance often stems from at least one of the people in the relationship having trouble communicating and controlling their anger. It can lead to physical, emotional, or sexual abuse/violence.

Some common characteristics:
  1. Control – One person makes all the decisions (what to wear, what friends to see, who to spent time with, etc.); they are unreasonably jealous and/or try to isolate the partner from friends and family.
  2. Intimidation – One person tries to control the other by making the other feel fearful or timid and may try to keep the partner from their friends and family, threaten violence or a break-up
  3. Dependence – One person feels that they “cannot live without” the other. They threaten to do something drastic if the relationship ends.
  4. Violence – This can be physical, verbal, emotional, psychological, or sexual.
  5. Unhealthy sexual relationship (if applicable) - Pressuring sexual acts, lack of consent, controlling contraceptive usage (not allowing or demanding it).
Image credit: TeensForCourage.org

What are common types of abuse?

  • Physical
  • Emotional and verbal
  • Sexual
  • Financial
  • Digital
  • Stalking
What are the warning signs of abuse?

Often at the beginning of a relationship, abusive people seem to lack flaws. As time passes, the abusive person tries to gain power and control over the other person. Abusive tendencies become more intense as the relationship develops over time.

Some common signs of abuse include:

  • Extreme jealousy of friends or time spent away from them
  • Preventing or discouraging time with friends, family, or peers
  • Insulting, demeaning, or shaming, especially in front of others
  • Preventing you from making your own decisions, even about work or school
  • Pressuring sexual acts, controlling contraceptive usage (not allowing or demanding it)
  • Intimidating
  • Making threats
  • Destroying your belongings
What can I do if I am in an unhealthy or abusive relationship?

Anyone can experience abuse, regardless of gender identity and sexual orientation. If you find yourself in an unsafe situation with an abuser, keep the following in mind:

  1. Prioritize your health and safety – contact police if you think you are in immediate danger. Visit a licensed medical provider for treatment if you have experienced physical and/or sexual abuse.
  2. Do not blame yourself. This is not your fault.
  3. Seek help from your support system. Talk to your parents or other significant adults in your life. Friends often are a great source of support.
  4. Decide next steps with your parent. It could be very helpful to learn about personal safety and create your very own safety plan, using this interactive guide to safety planning.
  5. Consider involving a school counselor. They can help to create a safety plan with you which may include suggestions like: Buddy-walking between classes, Using a code word between friends to indicate when help is needed
  6. Learn about local resources available to you and access online resources for additional support.
Where can I get more information and support?
What activities can I do with my teen to help?
  1. Am I in a healthy relationship? Take the quiz now
  2. Learn about Title IX services provided by your school Title IX FAQs

Do you currently need help with social media safety? You don’t have to go through this alone. Support is available!

CyberTipline Call Report child sexual exploitation
End to Cyberbullying, Inc. Call 1-772-202-3822
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s Call Center Call 1-800-843-5678
Take It Down Remove online nude, partially nude, or sexually explicit photos or videos.

Social media has become an extension of ourselves and the world around us. Social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Snapchat, and others provided opportunities for widespread social interaction with diverse communities and a wide range of opportunities to learn and connect with people and information throughout the world., While social media is a great way for you to meet others and build networks, there is plenty of opportunity for high-risk situations to develop that may affect your mental health and safety. Cyberbullying, sexting, online predators, and effects on body image pose a safety threat. Even social media challenges that often seem harmless have the potential to impact your mental health and cause harm. In this section, you’ll learn about online dangers and tips to protect your health and safety, including your mental health and wellbeing.

Here are some general social media safety tips:
  1. Know how to report, block and filter content: Filter the content you can see, report harmful or threatening comments, and block accounts that are trying to use technology to hurt others like using inappropriate language, coercion, or making threats. Learn how to report, block and filter!
  2. Customize your privacy settings: Limit who can view your information. If you’re using accounts like Spotify or Venmo, think about minimizing viewing of your public transactions. Learn how to adjust your privacy settings!
  3. Turn off geolocation: Many social media sites request to access your location. Deny it; it won’t limit your user experience. If you want to share your location, it’s best to wait to tag until after you’ve left because some sites automatically make geotagged information public.
  4. Think before you post: Ask yourself if you are comfortable sharing with everyone who might see the content you shared, including your dream college! Once you post something online, you are giving up the control over that content; people can take a screenshot, screen record, share with others and even use all, or portions of, your voice audio. If you are sharing personal information or your location, consider the risks. Even if you delete content on your account, it will continue living somewhere on the web forever.
  5. Use private Internet connections: Avoid public Wi-Fi connections when logging into accounts that require you to enter your password.
  6. Talk to your friends about public posts: Let your friends know how you feel about sharing content that may contain your personal identifying information, like your location, school, job, or photos/videos of you and/or your home. Be considerate of friends and family too - always ask for permission when posting about another person.
  7. Learn how to protect yourself from the potential mental health harms of social media by following the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory found on page 18.
Learn more: Social Media Safety
Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying affects 1 in 5 teens19 and it can affect self-esteem, physical health, school work and even mental health. Cyberbullying is bullying that takes place over digital devices like cell phones, computers, and tablets and it can happen to anyone; learn how NBA player Jeremy Lin face stood up to bullying. Cyberbullying can occur through SMS, Text and apps, or online on social media, forums, or gaming where people can view, participate in, or share content. Cyberbullying includes sending, posting, or sharing negative, harmful, false, or mean content about someone else. It can include sharing personal or private information about someone else causing embarrassment or humiliation. Some cyberbullying crosses the line into unlawful or criminal behavior20.
Infographic 4

Video credit: StopBullying.gob
What can I do if I am being cyberbullied?

Taking immediate action against cyberbullying is important.

  • Don’t respond to cyberbullying messages.
  • Keep evidence of cyberbullying: dates, times, and descriptions of incidents. Save and print screenshots, emails and text messages. You will use this evidence should you choose to report cyberbullying to web and cell phone service providers.
  • On social media platforms, block the person who is cyberbullying.

Report cyberbullying to online service providers. The person cyberbullying is likely violating social media site and internet service provider user term agreements.

  • Review terms and conditions or rights and responsibilities sections of social media sites and online service providers.
  • Block users and change your settings to stop the cyberbully from contacting you.
  • Report cyberbullying to social media sites so they can act against users abusing their terms of service agreements.

Cyberbullying is considered a crime and should be reported to law enforcement if they include:

  • Threats of violence
  • Child pornography or sending explicit messages or photos
  • Taking a photo or video of someone in a place where they would expect privacy
  • Stalking or hate crimes
  • There are other forms of cyberbullying considered criminal which vary by state. Consult your state’s laws and law enforcement for additional guidance.

Report cyberbullying to school:

  • Schools can use the reported information to help prevent further bullying, disruption of the environment at school, and help develop a strategy to respond.
  • Some states require that schools address cyberbullying in their anti-bullying policy and there are state laws that also cover off-campus behavior that creates a hostile school environment. California has both anti-bullying laws and policies.
Sexting

Sexting is a complicated subject to talk about but let’s start with something simple: sexting is illegal for minors. Sending or receiving explicit photos of people under the age of 18 is child pornography under federal law — even if the exchange is between minors and the exchange was consensual, meaning you both agreed to it.

Common Sense Media has some tips for you to keep in mind:

Image credit: Macleans.ca
  1. Remember that once an image is sent, it can never be retrieved - you will lose control of it. Ask yourself - how you would feel if your teachers, parents, or the entire school saw the picture?
  2. Pressures to send revealing photos: 61% of all sexters in a 2014 study said they sent nude images because they were pressured22. You too may feel pressured or dared into sending an explicit photo, but no matter how big the social pressure is, the potential social humiliation can be hundreds of times worse.
  3. You can end this. If someone sends you an explicit photo, you should delete it immediately. It's better to be part of the solution than the problem. Besides, if you do send it on to someone else, there could be legal implications
  4. Check out ThatsNotCool.com. It's a teen-friendly website that gives you the language and support to take texting and cell phone power back into your own hands.
Online Predators

“The Internet is much more anonymous than the real world. People can hide their identities or even pretend to be someone they're not. This can sometimes present a real danger to children and teens who are online. Online predators may try to lure kids and teens into sexual conversations or even face-to-face meetings. Predators will sometimes send obscene material or request that kids send pictures of themselves. Teens are generally more at risk from predators. Because they are curious and want to be accepted, they may talk to a predator willingly, even if they know it's dangerous. Sometimes teens may believe they are in love with someone online, making them more likely to agree to a face-to-face meeting”23.

Do you think that this couldn’t happen to you? Sadly, it’s quite possible because of the increased reliability on internet use. Check out these alarming numbers:24, 25, 26

  • There are half a million predators that threaten minors online daily.
  • According to the F.B.I., over 50% of victims of online sexual exploitation are between the ages of 12 and 15.
  • About 89% of sexual advances directed at minors occur in internet chatrooms or though instant messaging.
  • More than 80% of child sex crime starts on social media.
  • Nearly 6 in 10 teen girls say they’ve been contacted by a stranger on certain social media platforms in ways that make them feel uncomfortable.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe from online predators:

  • Stay away from using suggestive screen names or photos.
  • Be cautious if someone you do not know is flattering you online; this could be a red flag.
  • Avoid talking to anyone who wants to get too personal.
  • Remember, online users are not always who they say they are.
  • Never make plans to meet with someone you met online.
  • Tell a parent or trusted adult if you encounter a problem and need help. So, You Need Some Help gives you helpful tips to approach an adult in these situations.
Stay Safe From Predators Talking to Kids
Image credit: GCFGlobal.org
Learn more: Friend or Fake?
Social Media Challenges

Challenges on social media can seem like a fun way to create entertaining content for your followers. Some challenges can be positive and raise awareness and fundraise for important world issues. On the other hand, many challenges can be dangerous and can even cause permanent harm or death. One challenge caused the death of 15 children under the age of 12 in November of 2022. Another led to a 50% rise in crime in New York’s metropolitan area27. Ask yourself if this is something you want for yourself.

Here are some questions to ask yourself before participating in a social media challenge:

  • Why do I want to do this challenge? - Is it because everyone else is doing it? Is it because it seems fun? It is because it will have a positive outcome? Then ask yourself if any of the reasons you found are safe and good enough to participate.
  • What could happen to me if I participate in this social media challenge? - Will I be raising awareness about an issue that is important to me? Will I be eating chemicals that are not edible? Will it harm my body? Will I be destroying public property of any kind?
  • Is this something my parent, or another important adult in my life, would be ok with me doing? - Your parents want you to have fun and they want you to be safe. If you think they would be concerned about a challenge you are considering, it is probably a good idea not to go through with it. When in doubt, talk it out with them.
Impact on Body Image and Self Esteem

Social media accounts thrive by the number of interactions such as likes, comments and shares that a post receives. Content creators curate every little detail of their posts, down to the lighting, angle that they choose to photograph, the time of day, etc., all of which is deceiving. However, when all you see on your feed are images of muscular people, with toned abs, tiny waists and sun kissed skin, this starts to feel like the norm. Your brain starts to believe that this is how every single body should look, and you may start to compare yourself. This can lead to negative perceptions of your body image, which in turn affect your mental health, self-esteem and even lead to eating disorders and body dysmorphia.

These numbers might help you understand how common this feeling is among people in your age group26, 28:

teen-girl-mirror-monster-pink
Image credit: MichiganMedicine.org
men-struggle-with-body-image-too
Image credit: YoungMinds.org/uk
  1. Social media use appears to cause a decrease in self-esteem, with the group most affected being girls between 10 and 14.
  2. Greater social media use predicted poor sleep, online harassment, poor body image, low self-esteem and higher depressive symptom scores.
  3. 20 studies showed a relationship between social media use and body image concerns and eating disorders.
  4. When asked about the impact of social media on their body image, nearly half (46%) of teens aged 13 to 17 said social media makes them feel worse.
How do you know if your self-esteem is being affected?

A recent study demonstrated that teens and young adults who reduced their social media use by 50% for just a few weeks saw a significant improvement in their feelings about their weight and overall appearance, compared to their peers who did not modify their social media use29. So, is it as simple as limiting the amount of time spent of social media? It’s a start, but here are some more tips:

  • Be mindful of marketing tactics. Ask yourself:
    • “Is this real?” – Most of the time, the image is posed, filtered an/or edited.
    • “Is this image realistic?” – Genetics determine height, eye color, body shape and other characteristics. If an “ideal” image has to be achieved through drastic measures like restrictive dieting, expensive products, extreme workout plans or surgery, this image may not be a good fit for your genetic makeup. Trying to reach this image could be harmful to your physical and mental health.
    my body is good all bodies art
    Image credit: YoungMinds.org/uk
  • Pay attention to your inner dialogue:
    • Speak kindly to yourself.
  • Celebrate what makes you unique:
    • Write down five or more qualities, that have nothing to do with your appearance, that you love about yourself. By focusing on these qualities, you can make a positive impact on the world and feel more confident about what make you uniquely one of a kind.
  • Consider your beauty ideal:
    • Trends come and go. One year skinny is hot, the next curvy is in. Unless you’re a shape shifter, it’s unrealistic to always fit every standard of beauty. In fact, nothing about you needs to be “fixed”. Each person is unique and beautiful in their own way, you get to decide what that means to you regardless of what trends are in today and out tomorrow. Celebrate the qualities that make you unique, feel confident in your own skin and inspire others to also feel comfortable with themselves.
  • Clean your newsfeed:
    • Unlike or unfollow accounts that trigger negative thoughts about your body or appearance.
  • Follow people who inspire you:
    • Add and follow accounts, podcasts, newsletters or video channels that inspire you to make healthy choices and feel good about yourself.
  • Use the time away from social media to invest in real life activities instead.
Staying Safe Using Social Media

Below is a list of suggestions30 to keep you safe while using social media and help you foster a healthy relationship with technology.

  • How much time am I spending online
    • Is the time spent scrolling taking away from healthy offline activities, such as exercising, seeing friends, reading, or sleeping?
    • Are there healthy limits I can set on my use of technology? Limiting screen time to specific times of the day or week or limiting access to certain websites, apps, or games may help you stay away from an unhealthy amount of screen time. Many devices allow you to modify settings to limit both screen time and app access on your device.
  • Is the content that I am looking at, creating, or sharing meaningful and constructive?
    • Learn about staying safe online and have a conversation with your parent(s)/guardian about it. Though it may feel awkward or scary to talk about online predators and how to avoid being a target, it is scarier to not know how to avoid an unsafe situation.
  • Is it worth my time?
    • How do you feel about your time spent online? Do you engage with social media, for example, because you enjoy it or is it because you feel like you must because your friends are?
    • List the ways you spend time online using social media, gaming, watching or producing content. Review your list and identify if there are areas that may not be a healthy or constructive use for your time.

Do you currently need help with alcohol or substance use? You don’t have to go through this alone. Support is available!

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Substance Use Treatment Network Visit Service & Bed Availability Tool (SBAT) Find out if you qualify
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Substance Abuse Service Helpline Call 1-844-804-7500
Recover LA Mobile App Call Visit their website
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 1-800-662-4357

As a teen, you might encounter situations where access to alcohol and drugs and pressure to use them are present. It is extremely important to know about the dangers associated with drug and alcohol use - particularly because of existing high risks of lethal doses of fentanyl being found in numerous types of recreational substances and counterfeit pills. In this section you will learn about the risks of using alcohol and drugs, understand how to stay safe if you encounter drugs or alcohol in a social setting, and learn about overdose prevention resources.

What’s the big deal about teens experimenting with drugs and alcohol?

  • Even if it’s your first time using, or you casually use, certain drugs can cause severe health problems, such as an overdose or brain damage.
  • Drugs and alcohol can affect your growth and development. Your brain finishes developing and maturing in your mid-to-late 20s. The prefrontal cortex, used for skills like planning, prioritizing, and making good decisions, is one of the last parts to mature. Making good life choices depends upon the health of your fully developed brain.
  • A lifestyle involving drugs and alcohol often includes bad decision making. Drug and alcohol use can lead to unprotected sex, increasing risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV. Drug and alcohol use are the leading cause of teen death or injury related to car crashes, suicides, violence and drowning.
Learn more: Mind Matters
What activities can I do to avoid using alcohol and other drugs?

Set yourself up for success by building a drug and alcohol refusal plan and practice using real-life scenarios with a parent or friend.

  • Direct refusal – Know your “no” and be direct.
  • Give a reason – Identify a reason that you can use to say “no” to your peers if you are offered drugs or alcohol. Remember to keep the reason short and simple.
  • Make an excuse – Practice a couple of scenarios where you use an excuse if you’re feeling pressured by peers to use drugs or alcohol. For example, “I have to get home to meet my little brother at the bus stop” to say “no”. Avoid long explanations.
  • Exit the situation – Think of which friends may be best able to offer immediate help to get you out of an uncomfortable peer pressure situation.
  • Make a joke – Keep the situation light, offer a “no” in a humorous way.
I vape/smoke, use alcohol and/or drugs already. Now what?

If you or your friends use drugs or alcohol, these key steps can reduce your safety risks.

  • Always have a designated driver.
  • Use a buddy system, never use alone. See Signs of An Overdose below.
  • Learn how to help someone if there is a possible overdose.
  • Call your parent or another responsible adult for help if you are in a dangerous situation.
  • Have naloxone on hand.
  • Learn how to test drugs using fentanyl test strips. See Fentanyl section below for more information on naloxone and fentanyl test strips.
Where can I get more information and support?
Fentanyl
Image credit: United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA.gov)
Fentanyl is all over the news. What is it?
Infographic 6

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid. Opioids are a broad group of pain-relieving drugs that work by interacting with opioid receptors in your brain, spinal cord, and gut. Opioids can be made from the poppy plant, like morphine, or synthesized in a laboratory. Pharmaceutical fentanyl is used in specific, supervised medical situations—such as during surgery, labor and delivery, and for end-of-life pain management. Because of its powerful properties that trigger the release of “feel-good” endorphins, fentanyl is highly addictive, posing risks of misuse and addiction. Fentanyl most often associated with recent overdoses is made in laboratories. This synthetic fentanyl is sold illegally as a powder, dropped onto blotter paper, put in eye droppers and nasal sprays, or made into pills that look like other prescription opioids.

Why are teens using Fentanyl?
Infographic 7
Why is Fentanyl causing so many deaths in teens?
Infographic 8
33Fentanyl. California Department of Public Health. February 16, 2023. Available from: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/sapb/Pages/Fentanyl.aspx
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than the opiate morphine and 100 times more potent than heroin33. In addition to its potency, some drug dealers mix fentanyl with other drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, Xanax, and MDMA (Ecstasy). This is because it takes very little to produce a high with fentanyl, making it a cheaper option. It is especially risky when people taking drugs might not realize that they may be taking stronger opioids than their bodies are used to and can be more likely to overdose.
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) officials reported a dramatic rise in the number of counterfeit pills containing at least 2 milligrams of fentanyl, which is considered a deadly dose. Lab testing found that at least 6 out of every 10 pills confiscated contained dosages of fentanyl that were potentially deadly dose34. Lab testing found that at least 6 out of every 10 pills confiscated contained dosages of fentanyl that were potentially deadly22.
Infographic 9
21One Pill Can Kill. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration. December 2022. Available from: https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2022-12/DEA-OPCK_FactSheet_December_2022.pdf
Figure 1. Los Angeles County Fentanyl-Related Overdose Deaths. California Overdose Surveillance Dashboard35
Reducing the Risk of Overdose
What can I do to reduce the risks caused by opioids such as fentanyl?

The only way to guarantee that an overdose will not happen is to not use drugs and alcohol at all! Avoid taking any medication that has not been prescribed to you from a licensed medical professional.

If you or your friends might be using drugs containing fentanyl or other opioids, the next most important step is to ensure that you have and know how to use naloxone (Narcan). Narcan can be obtained from a pharmacy or through community-based access points. Narcan reverses opioid overdoses, including overdoses fentanyl.

naloxone 3-types
Image credit: California Department of Public Health (CDPH.gov)
How can I know if drugs have fentanyl?

Fentanyl test strips (FTS) are a form of low-cost drug testing technology effective at detecting the presence of fentanyl and fentanyl-like substances in drug samples prior to ingestion. However, an FTS does not tell you how much fentanyl is in a substance or how strong the fentanyl in the substance may be.
fentanyl test strip results

Image credit: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.gov)
If you choose to continue to use drugs, it is safer to test the drugs for fentanyl directly with fentanyl test strips that may be purchased over the counter before using. Remember to never use drugs or alcohol alone; this is extremely important in preventing death due to overdose. Also, make sure to have Narcan on hand whenever possible.

How do you use a fentanyl test strip (FTS)?

To use fentanyl test strips, you must first crush the substance into a very fine powder to ensure that the fentanyl is completely mixed into the substance. Then, dissolve a small amount of substance in water, and dip the test strip into the liquid for 15 seconds. Because the test strips are highly sensitive, only a small amount of drug residue is needed to get an accurate result. The test strip is then set on a flat surface until results appear, typically within 5 minutes. One line indicates fentanyl is present in the sample; two lines indicate a negative result.

Where can I purchase fentanyl test strips?
What are the signs of an opioid overdose?

Recognizing the signs of an opioid overdose can save a life. These are some of the signs to look for:

  1. Small, constricted “pinpoint pupils”
  2. Falling asleep or losing consciousness
  3. Slow, weak, or no breathing
  4. Choking or gurgling sounds
  5. Limp body
  6. Cold and/or clammy skin
  7. Discolored skin (especially lips and nails)
Is medication available to reverse an overdose?

Naloxone, or Narcan, is a lifesaving medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses, like those from fentanyl, or other opioids including norco, Percocet, Vicodin, oxycodone, oxycontin, morphine, or heroin. If used properly, it may save lives. Naloxone is available as a prescription from your healthcare provider and the cost is often covered by many health insurance plans however it was approved to be sold as an over-the-counter medication in the fall of 2023. Los Angeles County, through the Departments of Public Health and Health Services are also distributing no cost naloxone to various settings and populations.

What should I do if I think someone is having an opioid overdose?
  1. Call 9-1-1 immediately
  2. Give Naloxone/Narcan, if it’s available
  3. Try to keep the person awake and breathing
  4. Lay the person on their side to prevent choking
  5. Stay with the person until emergency assistance arrives

Are you currently experiencing trauma? You don’t have to go through this alone. Support is available!

Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health 800-854-7771
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Office of Violence Prevention Call 626-293-2610
Teen Line Call 626-293-2610 Call Visit their website
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Call 800-852-8336
Text “TEEN” to 839863

Trauma refers to a survivor’s biological response to events (an experience, a sensation, an occurrence) that they find distressing, disturbing, or life-threatening. Each person experiences trauma differently and what may cause a trauma response in one person may not cause the same response in someone else.

Examples of Trauma Include

  • Difficult life experiences such as neglect, loss, violence
  • Victimization such as that associated with sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, intimate partner violence, rape, and/or human trafficking
  • Witnessing violent events such as terrorism or natural disasters

Reactions and responses are different for every person and can be both immediate and delayed. Sometimes, a sound, smell, or feeling can trick our body into thinking we are back in a moment of danger, even if that moment happened many years ago. We call these “triggers” or “stressors”.

Stressors are a sensory experience that remind us of a traumatic event and can activate our survival responses36 even if we aren’t currently in danger. This is why, even after a traumatic event is over, it may still negatively impact our mental health, relationships, and behaviors. Teens might have a hard time studying, being social, or sleeping which might affect their grades and/or attendance at school. Understanding the signs of trauma, validating the traumatic experience, and connecting teens with resources to better understand and resolve trauma is essential to lessen the impact of stressors in their daily lives.

What are signs that my teen might be experiencing trauma?

Behavioral

  • Clinginess
  • Hyperactivity
  • Emotional and
    psychological regression
  • Difficulty socializing

Cognitive

  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feeling confused
  • Recurring nightmares
  • Hopelessness

Physical

  • Easily startled
  • Physical weakness
  • Changes in sleep, appetite
  • Stomach pains, headache
Gun Violence & School Shootings

242016-2019 mortality data from California Department of Public Health Vital Statistics, provided by Office of Health Assessment and Epidemiology. Linked mortality datafile 2020 (provisional), LA County Dept. of Public Health. Office of Health Assessment and Epidemiology. Population data for rates from Hedderson Demographic Services for LA County ISD. ICD-10 codes used to identify firearm homicides: X93-X95, U01.4. Available from: https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Data-and-Statistics-.aspx

In 2020, firearms became the leading cause of death for children and teens in the United States. In Los Angeles County, the firearm homicide rate among youth aged 15-24 (9.1 per 100,000) was more than double that of the national rate (4.3 per 100,000)37. In many LA County neighborhoods, gun violence is a daily reality. In 2021 there were 625 firearm homicides in Los Angeles County; a 64% increase from the 380 reported in 201937. In 2022 there were 466 firearm homicides37. School shootings contribute to trauma in youth. Trauma may occur whether a school shooting is experienced in-person, through participation in mock school shooter drills, or heard through news outlets. Any one of these can lead to heightened fear of going to school or of the possibility that you might experience a school shooting or in their community. It is important to address the effects of gun violence as it relates to your mental health.

If I suspect that I am experiencing trauma, what can help me deal with it?
  1. Take a social media and news break: Revisiting the event can contribute to trauma
  2. Avoid making major life decisions
  3. Maintain physical health: Eat nutritious meals, get quality sleep, get regular physical activity
  4. Unwind: Try deeps breaths, stretches, mindfulness practices, journal
  5. Do activities you enjoy
  6. Connect with others: Family, friends, and other support systems
  7. Seek professional support if: it begins to take over your life, it limits your activities
Image credit: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Office of Violence Prevention
Where can I get more information and support?

What activities can help me deal with trauma?

Image credit: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Office of Violence Prevention

The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity38”. There are several components to maintaining your health including physical health, mental health, and social and emotional health. Optimal wellbeing is dependent on building and maintaining healthy habits. As we focus on mental health below, keep in mind that many of the suggestions made are not one-size-fits-all. Remember that no one is perfect, and time is a limited resource. Do not put pressure on yourself for not being able to do all the healthy living recommendations every single day. Little wins add up to big victories!

Image credit: World Health Organization (WHO.org)

Use the checklist on pages 6-7 from the Surgeon General’s Playbook for Stress to stick to your wellness goals.

Image credit: The California Surgeon General’s Playbook for Stress

Physical Health

Regular physical activity can not only provide multiple physical benefits but there are several mental health benefits as well. Physical activity keeps the heart healthy, leads to better sleep, greater focus at school, and improves happiness.

Infographic 10
Physical activity is any type of movement like brisk walking, jumping rope, playing soccer, or lifting weights. Swapping out daily activities such as driving to the store with walking or riding a bicycle or taking the stairs instead of an elevator or doing household chores can have big benefits for your overall health. Recent studies suggest that any activity resulting in about 10,000 steps, if not more, can reduce the risk of chronic conditions and early death from any cause (also called ‘all-cause mortality’) later in life.
Mental Health

Mental health refers to how you are feeling, thinking, and acting. It is influenced by physiological, social, and emotional wellness factors. Maintaining good mental health is important because it can help you respond thoughtfully to daily stressors, influence how you relate to others, and help you deal with conflicts to live healthier and happier lives.

Physical Activity Recommendations:

  • Preschool-Aged Children (3-5 years) should be physically active throughout the day doing active play and a variety of fun activities.
  • Children and adolescents (6-17 years) should get 60 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity per day
  • Adults (18-64 years) should do at least two hours and thirty minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week (30 minutes a day, 5 days a week) OR 1 hours and 15 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week

What is moderate aerobic activity?

Aerobic activity is also known as cardio. It includes physical activity that gets you breathing harder and makes your heartbeat faster. Moderate aerobic activity raises the heartrate and is enough to cause a sweat. At this level of activity, you can still carry a conversation but not sing a song comfortably.

What is vigorous aerobic activity?

Vigorous intensity aerobic activity means that breathing is hard and fast with an increased heart rate. At this level of activity, you will be unable to say more than a few words before having to pause to catch your breath.

How can I improve my physical activity?

You can do several things to be more physically active at school and at home. As a teen, it is important to stay regularly active and establish healthy habits that lead to a full, healthy life.

  1. Talk with your school principal to make sure you are getting the required PE minutes you are entitled to by law.
  2. You can also talk with your school principal to make sure that PE is taught by appropriately qualified teachers, and that teachers are following state recommended guidelines (PE standards).
  3. Advocate and help organize an opportunity for your school to open up their exercise facilities and space to the community for physical activity programming and sports through an arrangement called ‘shared use agreement’ (see What is a Joint Use Agreement). Many of the afterschool or weekend programs that are available through shared use agreements can benefit you, friends, your family, and your community.
  4. Set a positive example for the rest of the family by leading an active lifestyle yourself.
  5. Ask your parent to take you to places where you can be active, such as public parks and pools, community baseball fields or basketball courts. Ask if you can play school-organized sports or join extramural teams after school (tennis, basketball, baseball/softball, soccer, track & field, others based on your interest).
  6. Make physical activity fun! Fun activities can be anything you enjoy, structured or non-structured. These can range from team sports or individual sports to recreational activities such as walking, hiking, running, skating, bicycling, and swimming.
  7. Instead of watching television, playing video games, or spending time on the internet after dinner, find fun activities to do on your own or with friends and family., Walking, swimming, or riding bikes are all great examples of activities that can be enjoyed together. Setting reasonable limits on sedentary activities, or activities that don’t require a lot of physical movement, e.g., internet, video game and cellular phone use, can help you connect with others.
  8. Be safe! Make sure that you have appropriate protective equipment such as helmets, wrist pads, and knee pads and ensure that physical activity is age appropriate.

Need creative ways to get moving? Move Your Way fact sheets help you understand your teen’s physical activity needs and provide fun ways to keep moving.

Nutrition

Regularly eating a well-balanced diet is the best way to provide your body with what it needs to grow, think, and perform at its best. Fueling up with healthy foods is just as important for your brain and mental health as it is to your other organs to prevent illness and chronic diseases. Remember, the benefits of healthy eating add up over time, bite by bite!

Where to start?

One of the most helpful tools that outline daily nutritional recommendations is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate. Make choices from all food groups – fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods, and dairy and fortified soy alternatives – every day. Each group provides you with different nutrients and you need all of them. Looking for information about Type 2 Diabetes? The Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes Prevention toolkit for Schools is a great place to start.

MyPlate Nutrition Recommendations
  1. Fruits and Vegetables – make sure that your teen is filling half of their plate with fruits and vegetables; focus on whole fruits and vary your veggies
  2. Grains – Make sure that half of the grains are “whole grains” on your teen’s plate
  3. Protein – Help your teen choose from a variety of proteins regularly
  4. Dairy – Low-fat or fat-free dairy milk or yogurt (or lactose-free dairy or fortified soy versions) are good options
How much of each food group is appropriate each day?

Nutritional needs vary. However, based on age, sex, height, weight, and physical activity levels, the MyPlate Plan can be used to create a personalized food plan for you. Learn more about your needs with these quick fact sheets for Healthy Eating for Teens.

How can I help my parents and family with eating nutritious meals?

Eating healthy can fit your family’s busy lifestyle and budget.

  • Look through MyPlate approved recipes at MyPlate Kitchen and make 1 to 2 suggestions for meals that you would like to make as a family this week.
    • Select a weekday dinner and a weekend lunch.
    • Once you agree on the meals, add them to the weekly calendar.
    • Your parents would also appreciate if you added the ingredients to the grocery list.

Short on time? MyPlate Kitchen features several meals that take less than 30 minutes. Make the most of this resource by selecting “Browse Categories” in the “I’m Looking For” dropdown menu to search by supplemental assistance programs, food groups, cooking equipment, cuisine, and total cost.

Budget Savvy? The Shop Simple with MyPlate computer, tablet, and smart phone app helps you find cost-saving opportunities in your local area and discover new ways to prepare budget-friendly foods.

Keep in mind that healthy eating is also a wonderful way to stay socially connected and learn about different cultures that may be of interest to your teen. The CalFresh Healthy Living program in California has a number of recipes that offer diversity in food and food preparation.

More Helpful Resources
  1. 211 LA: Food Resources: Find food near you using the new map tool and discover food resources for children/ youth, food benefits programs, and more.
  2. BenefitsCal: Apply for CalFresh food benefits. With this one stop click, you can also apply for other assistance programs like Medi-Cal health coverage and CalWORKs cash aid.
  3. CalFresh Healthy Living: Tips and resources for healthy eating and staying active. Find 100’s of quick, budget-friendly recipes too!
  4. eatFresh.org: CalFresh Healthy Living and EatFresh offer more than 500 tasty and healthy recipes to choose from based on meal type, cuisine, and more.
Additional Food Resource Fact Sheets (Spanish)
Eating Disorders
An eating disorder (or disordered eating) is when a person is experiencing severe disturbances in their eating behavior and related thoughts and emotions around food and their body weight. Eating disorders affect at least 9% of the U.S. population and between 35-57% of teenage girls engage in crash dieting, fasting, self-induced vomiting, diet pills, or laxatives29. However, eating disorders do not only impact girls and women. People of every age, race, size, and gender identity can be affected by eating disorders. The exact cause of eating disorders is not fully understood, but research suggests a combination of genetic, biological, behavioral, psychological, and social factors can raise a person’s risk. Eating disorders are serious and have both mental and physical health implications. If you suspect your teen has an eating disorder, there are resources that can help. There are several types of eating disorders and symptoms vary. Check out Eating Disorders: About More than Food for specific information on various eating disorders.
Infographic 11
29Eating Disorder Statistics. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. Available from: https://anad.org/eating-disorders-statistics/
Sleep

Sleep is important for your mental and physical health. As a teen, sleep supports your growth and development. It can impact how you think, learn, react, and get along with others. Getting the correct amount of good sleep is an important preventive measure to reduce your risk for long-term health concerns related to your heart, circulatory system, metabolism, hormones, immune system, respiratory system, and memory.

How much sleep do I need?

Teens 13 to 18 years old should sleep 8 to 10 hours per day. Do you feel like you sleep more often?? That is normal. You are in an important stage of growth and development and you need more sleep than adults. During puberty there is a change in your circadian rhythm, called a “sleep phase delay” which delays your need for sleep for about two hours. But you still need 8 to 10 hours of sleep, which then makes you sleep in. Of course, you can’t sleep in though since you have to go to school! For this reason, it’s important to go to sleep on time regularly each night. Ignoring this transition can take a toll on your body and your mental health.

Good sleep habits can help you achieve a better night’s rest. Try adding these tips to your teen’s sleep regimen:

Learn more: Sleep and Teens
How can I improve the quality of my sleep?

Good sleep habits can help you achieve a better night’s rest. Try adding these tips to your sleep regimen:

  1. Keep a routine. Have your teen go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning. If they want to sleep in on weekends, have them stay within 2 hours of their regular sleep schedule.
  2. Ideally none of us would have electronics in our bedrooms, but sometimes this just isn’t realistic. If you don’t feel that removing electronics (this includes TVs, smartphones, computers and tablets) from the bedroom is possible, discuss electronic “downtime” with your teen. Agree to the hours each day when electronics will be turned off.
  3. Make sure their room is comfortable – including desired levels of darkness, noise, and temperature.
  4. Try to encourage your teen not to have large meals or caffeine before bedtime.
  5. Regular daily exercise will help teens fall asleep easier.
Mental Health

Mental health refers to how you are feeling, thinking, and acting. It is influenced by physiological, social, and emotional wellness factors. Maintaining good mental health is important because it can help you respond thoughtfully to daily stressors, influence how you relate to others, and help you deal with conflicts to live healthier and happier lives.

Spiritual Health

Spirituality is a sense of connection to something bigger than yourself. Spirituality can have a positive impact on mental health, as it helps you understand yourself in relation to how you fit into the rest of the world through self-reflection.

Your spirituality may look different than that of others and this is ok. Some people express spirituality through religious beliefs, while others immerse themselves in nature and solitude. No matter how spirituality is practiced, rest assured that the benefits are the same.

How can spiritual health support my mental health?

Through spiritual practices, the mind and body will be better connected, positively influencing mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Spirituality improves:

  1. Individuality
  2. Mindfulness
  3. Unity to surroundings

Emotional Health

Emotional health may be thought of as an extension of mental health. Emotional intelligence translates to one’s awareness of their emotions and the ability to manage and express feelings in an age-appropriate way. There are 6 strategies that the National Institutes of Health recommends to best support your emotional health40.

Strategies for Improving Teen Emotional Health
  1. Build resilience
  2. Reduce stress
  3. Get quality sleep
  4. Be mindful
  5. Cope with loss
  6. Strengthen social connections
Social Health
During adolescence, you will build relationships and bonds with adults and friends in the community. This is important because it helps you feel a sense of connectedness, which is supports mental health and well-being.

How can I feel more connected to those around me?
  1. Practice regular, open, and honest communication with your parents and other important adult figures in your life.
  2. Learn what you value, what is important to you and why.
  3. Spend time doing activities you love
  4. Communicate regularly with their teachers and coaches.
  5. Use social media safely.
  6. Have healthy decision-making in your relationships with new and old friends.

This section outlines four science-based exercises that you can do to focus on numerous strengths with the single purpose of answering one of life’s biggest questions, “How can one be truly happy?”

Positive Psychology Focuses On:
  1. Positive experiences – encourage optimism (like happiness, joy, love, and inspiration) by finding fulfillment in creativity and productivity as their own rewards not just a means to an end.
  2. Positive states and traits - foster gratitude and development (like gratitude, resilience, and compassion) to help you make the most of rising to life’s challenges and using adversity and setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.
  3. Positive institutions (applying positive principles within entire organizations and institutions) – look beyond yourself and helping others to find lasting meaning, satisfaction, and wisdom.
Gratitude Journal

Grab a notebook and something to write with. Locate a quiet space.

There are many things that we can be grateful for. Take some time to identify what you are grateful for in your life. Some things can be big, but some may also be very small. These things also differ from person to person.

Try this with your parent or friend: List five things from the past week that you are grateful for and take 15 minutes or so to share with each other.

Random Acts of Kindness

Make it a goal to encourage your teen to practice acts of kindness regularly.

Try this: set a goal with your teen to each perform five acts of kindness this week. Each of you should write down what you did and how it made you feel. Set some time aside at the end of the week to share with one another.

Strengths List

Identifying strengths increases self-awareness and can help with self-worth and appreciation.

Try this activity with your parent or friend:

  1. Each of you identify one of your personal strengths (like creativity, compassion, or perseverance).
  2. Next, focus on using your strength frequently, setting a goal of how often you’d like to exercise it (e.g., once per week).
  3. Next, focus on using your strength frequently, setting a goal of how often you’d like to exercise it (e.g., once per week).
  4. Write about your experiences using your personal strength, describe how you used it, how you felt, and what you learned.

S.M.A.R.T. Goals

Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based goals provide you with clarity and focus, helping to identify priorities, clarify ideas, and focus energy and efforts.

Try goal setting with your parent or friend: Share a specific goal that you would like to achieve this week, this month, or this year. Make sure the goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound. Remember that the goal should be important to you and something that you really value. Talk through visualizing how you will achieve this goal and write out the steps that will allow you to reach it. Lastly, support each other in the pursuit of these goals and encourage each other to consistently follow through.

Additional Mental Health Helplines and Resources 211 LA County 211 LA County
Dial: 211
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline6 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call: 988
Text: 988
Chat
California Coalition for Youth California Coalition for Youth
24/7 response system
Call 1-800-843-5200
Text 1-800-843-5200
Email them cycl@calyouth.org
Crisis Text Line Crisis Text Line
Text: “LA” to 741741
Disaster Distress Helpline Disaster Distress Helpline
Call: 800-985-5990
Family Urgent Response System (FURS) FURS
Hazel Health Hazel Health

Free, 24/7 hotline for current or former foster youth up to age 21 and their caregivers to receive phone, text, chat and/or in-person support when needed for any issues, big or small.

Call or text 1-833-939-3877
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Hazel Health – ask your school if they are participating in this program
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Substance Abuse Service Helpline
Call: 844-804-7500
Teen Line Teen Line Call 800-852-8336 nationwide, from 9-10pm PST Text TEEN to 839863, from 6-9pm PST Email them
Trevor Project Lifeline Trevor Project Lifeline
Call: 800-788-7386
Accessing Mental Health Services California Department of Managed Health Care Behavioral Health Care
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health Community Outreach Initiatives (CHOI)

Get Help Applying for Free or Low-Cost Health Coverage
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) How to Seek Help

Understanding Health Insurance
Accessing Mental Health Services – Teens with Special Healthcare Needs Department of Developmental Services Regional Centers
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Regional Centers for the Developmentally Disabled
Accessing Mental Health Services – Foster Youth Family Urgent Response System (FURS) Family Urgent Response System (FURS)
Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS)

Foster Youth Rights Handbook

DCFS’ Health and Mental Health

Multidisciplinary Assessment Team (MAT)
Accessing Mental Health Services – LGBTQIA+ Teens AIDS Project LA AIDS Project LA
Airport Marina Counseling Services Airport Marina Counseling Services
Antioch University Counseling Center Antioch University Counseling Center
Bienestar Bienestar
BlackLine BlackLine
Colors LGBTQ Youth Counseling and Community Center Colors LGBTQ Youth Counseling Services
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Center for Tansyouth Health and Development
Kaleidoscope Kaleidoscope
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Get Help Now!
Los Angeles LGBT Center Los Angeles LGBT Center
National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network National Queer & Trans Therapists of Color Network
Penny Lane Center Penny Lane Center’s LGBTQ+ Programs
Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance Rainbow Pride Youth Alliance
The Alexis Project LGBTQ+ Clinic – The Alexis Project
The Center for Professional Counseling Center The Center for Professional Counseling
The Trevor Project The Trevor Project
Trans Wellness Center Trans Wellness Center
UCLA EMPWR Program EMPWR Program
ViaCare ViaCare
Accessing Mental Health Services – Male Teens and Males of Color Black Infants & Families Fatherhoood
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health iPrevail
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) NAMI
Mental Health America of California Mental Health America of California
My Brother’s Keeper My Brother’s Keeper (MBK)
TherapyForBlackMen.org TherapyForBlackMen.org
Alcohol and Substance Abuse California Department of Public Health California Overdose Surveillance Dashboard, Los Angeles County Dashboard
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Fentanyl Facts
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Substance Abuse Prevention and Control Substance Use and Prevention Resources
Overdose Prevention
Accessing Naloxone, Drug Testing and Test Strips
Harm Reduction and Overdose Prevention Resources
Partnership to End Addiction Partnership to End Addiction
Why Teens Drink and Experiment with Drugs
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration “Talk. They Hear You.” Family Agreement Form
"Talk. They Hear You.” Campaign Videos
COVID-19 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration “Talk. They Hear You.” Family Agreement Form
"Talk. They Hear You.” Campaign Videos
Healthy Relationships Domestic Violence Resources
24-hour Support Services
1-800-978-3600
ENDTAB (End Technology Enabled Abuse) ENDTAB
Futures Without Violence Futures Without Violence
Jeneration J by Jenesse Center Jeneration J by Jenesse Center
Know You IX Know Your IX
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Office of Women’s Health Gender Based Violence – Resources for Victims of Violence
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Office of Violence Prevention Email: OVP@ph.lacounty.gov
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Office of the Domestic Violence Council Email: DVC@ph.lacounty.gov
Love is Respect Love is Respect
Text: “LOVEIS” to 22522
Call: 1-866-331-9474
National Domestic Violence Hotline National Domestic Violence Hotline
Call: 1-800-799-7233
TTY 1-800-787-3224
Text: “START” to 88788 Chat
Peace Over Violence Peace Over Violence
That’s Not Cool That’s Not Cool
Youth.Gov Characteristics of Healthy & Unhealthy Relationships
Stress, Anxiety and Depression American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Stress Management and Teens
California Surgeon General The California Surgeon General’s Playbook for Stress Stress Relief for Caregivers and Kids
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Stress Management and Teens
Child Mind Institute Anxiety: The Basics, Parenting Anxious Kids, Anxiety and School, Videos, Treatment
National Institute of Mental Health Getting to Know Your Brain: Dealing with Stress (VIDEO)
I’m So Stressed Out!
Teen Depression: More Than Just Moodiness
Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine Mental Health Resources for Adolescent and Young Adults: Apps and Tech, Guides, Helplines
Suicide: Thoughts, Behaviors and Attempts American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Risk factors, protective factors and warning signs
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Preventing Suicide
Maintaining Wellness: Mental Health National Institute of Mental Health Mental Health Benefits of Religion and Spirituality
National Institutes of Health Emotional Wellness Toolkit
Emotional Wellness Toolkit – More Resources
Maintaining Wellness: Nutrition Benefits Cal BenefitsCal
CalFresh Budget friendly recipes
CalFresh Healthy Living
EatFresh EatFresh
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health BCalFresh Food
Market Match
School Meals Program
Summer Meals Program
211LA 211 LA: Food Resources
Maintaining Wellness: Physical Activity/MentalHealthToolKit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Getting started with physical activity
How much physical activity do adults need?
How much physical activity do children need?
Physical Activity Recommendations for Different Age Groups
Los Angeles County Department of Public Health What is the difference between physical activity and physical education?
Youth Resource Guide
Maintaining Wellness: Sleep Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Basics About Sleep
Healthy Sleep Habits
How Much Sleep Do I Need?
Happiness Exercises 17 Benefits of Positive Psychology
What is Positive Psychology and How Can It Help?
Gratitude Journal Gratitude Journal
Random Acts of Kindness Random Acts of Kindness
S.M.A.R.T. Goals Goal Visualization
SMART Goal Setting Worksheet
Strengths List Use Your Strengths

1National Alliance on Mental Illness. (n.d.). Mental Health Conditions. Retrieved from https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions

2Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, June 28). About Mental Health. Retrieved from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm

3Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, February 13). Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/mental-health/index.htm

4Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative. (n.d.). Youth At the Center. Retrieved from https://www.chhs.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/CYBHI-Youth-at-the-Center-Report.FINAL_.pdf

5American College of Obstetrictians and Gynecologists. (2017, July). Mental Health Disorders in Adolescents. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2017/07/mental-health-disorders-in-adolescents#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20mental%20illnesses,people%20aged%2015%E2%80%9324%20years

6Centers for Disease Control. (2023, March 8). Mental Health Symptoms in School-Aged Children in Four Communities. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/features/school-aged-mental-health-in-communities.html

7Office of Populations Affairs HHS. (n.d.). Mental Health For Adolescents. Retrieved from https://opa.hhs.gov/adolescent-health/mental-health-adolescents

8Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, March 8). Data & Statistics. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/data.html

9University of Buffalo. (2023, July). Developing Your Support System. Retrieved from https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/resources/self-care-starter-kit/additional-self-care-resources/developing-your-support-system.html#:~:text=Benefits%20of%20a%20Social%20Support%20System,-Research%20has%20shown&text=Friends%20and%20loved%20ones%20can,the%20good%20times%20even%20better

10Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). CDC WONDER Online Database About Underlying Cause of Death, 1999-2020. Retrieved from https://wonder.cdc.gov/ucd-icd10.html

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26 Office of the Surgeon General. (2021). Protecting Youth Mental Health: The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2022/03/california-youth-mental-health-crisis/

27Huang, P. (2023, February 15). Dangerous Social Media Challenges. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Center for Injury Research & Prevention. https://injury.research.chop.edu/blog/posts/dangerous-social-media-challenges

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29American Psychological Association. (2023, February 23). Reducing social media use significantly improves body image in teens, young adults [Press release]. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2023/02/social-media-body-image

30(Office of the Surgeon General, 2021)

31Cal Matters. (2022, March 17). California Confronts Youth Mental Health Crisis. https://calmatters.org/newsletters/whatmatters/2022/03/california-youth-mental-health-crisis/

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