Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month serves as an important reminder of the growing mental health challenges facing children and youth across the country – and the power we all have to make a difference.
At Casa Pacifica, the leading nonprofit provider of children’s and adolescent mental health services in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, we see firsthand both the growing challenges and the resilience of the youth we serve. With the right support, healing is possible—and every youth deserves the chance to thrive.
Youth Mental Health by the Numbers
The numbers are not just statistics—they represent real lives, real struggles, and real urgency to act.
LGBTQ+ Youth Face Disproportionate Challenges
The situation is even more serious for LGBTQ+ youth. The Trevor Project’s 2024 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health found that:
- 41% of LGBTQ+ young people seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year.
- 67% reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety.
- 54% reported symptoms of depression.
- Transgender and nonbinary youth are at significantly higher risk for poor mental health outcomes.
Lack of affirmation, bullying, discrimination, and family rejection contribute to these elevated risks—but connection, acceptance, and support can be lifesaving.
Where to Turn: Mental Health Resources for Youth
If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone—and help is available. Here are some essential resources:
- The Trevor Project
A national organization providing 24/7 crisis support, advocacy, and resources for LGBTQ+ youth.
Call, text, or chat at www.thetrevorproject.org - Casa Pacifica’s SAFTY Mobile Crisis Response Team
Serving youth up to the age of 21 in Santa Barbara County, our mobile team provides in-person crisis support for children and adolescents experiencing a psychiatric emergency.
Call 888-334-2777 (Available 7 days a week, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM). Learn more at Safe Alternatives for Treating Youth (SAFTY).
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
This national, 24/7 lifeline offers free and confidential support for anyone in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.
Dial 988 or visit 988lifeline.org
How You Can Make a Difference
Mental Health Awareness Month is your chance to get involved—not just by learning the facts, but by being part of the solution. Whether you share a resource, support a young person in crisis, or donate to organizations that make healing possible, your actions matter. Visit www.casapacifica.org to learn more about how Casa Pacifica is making a difference—and how you can, too.
About Casa Pacifica
Headquartered in Camarillo, California, Casa Pacifica is the largest non-profit provider of children’s and adolescent mental health services in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. It’s nationally accredited programs and services include residential treatment, therapeutic behavioral services, wraparound services, mobile crisis response, transitional youth services, school-based mental health services and foster care services along with a fully certified, diploma-granting Non-Public School for grades K-12. Casa Pacifica specializes in treating children and youth who struggle with complex mental health challenges including anxiety, depression and emotional dysregulation. Nearly 52,500 children have been admitted to one of its programs since its founding in 1994.
To learn more or to get involved, email info@casapacifica.org or call 805-366-4040.