February is Youth Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on the emotional and psychological challenges young people face and to support children, teens, and young adults in building healthy foundations for their mental well-being. Mental health plays a critical role in a young person’s development, relationships, academic success, and overall quality of life. Together, we can promote understanding, compassion, and access to support for our youth.

Here are a few meaningful ways to honor this month’s observance:

• Raise Awareness: Share information about common mental health challenges affecting youth, such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and social pressures. Education helps reduce stigma, encourages early intervention, and empowers young people and families to seek support without fear or shame.
• Practice Compassion: Understand that mental health struggles in youth are not a sign of weakness or failure. Approach young people with empathy, patience, and active listening. Creating safe, supportive spaces allows them to express their emotions and feel seen and understood.
• Promote Wellness: Encourage healthy habits that support emotional resilience, including routine, physical activity, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, mindfulness practices, and strong social connections. Access to counseling, school-based support, and community mental health resources can make a lasting impact.
• Advocate for Change: Support policies, programs, and local initiatives that improve access to youth mental health services, early screenings, and education. Advocacy helps ensure that young people receive the care and resources they need to thrive.

This February, let’s commit to awareness, compassion, and action—because every young person deserves support, understanding, and the opportunity to grow into their healthiest self.