If you are a teen suffering from depression or a mental health challenge, know that you are not alone. This page is here to help you cope by providing resources to help make things a little better. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, text, call, or chat 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, for a free confidential conversation with a trained counselor 24/7. For instructions to view this page in Spanish, click on en Español.
Families Connected Resources
You are not alone
University of Penn graduate Brian Chao shares his struggles with depression and how he copes in this Families Connected video.
Tools for helping a friend in need
Click here to view these in Spanish
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Teen blogs
Putting a Face on Mental Health by Josephine Urbon
OCD and Tick Disorder by Rhys Moon
My Freshman Experience: How Trying to “Fit In” Came at the Price of Well-Being by Brian Chao
SBFC Youth Mental Health Blogger Becomes a Kindness Reporter for the BTWF by Brian Chao
Curated Gallery of Resources
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Youth mental health resources
SAMHSA provides offers insight into all mental health conditions, mental health myths and facts and how to talk about mental health. SAMHSA also operates a National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP (4357)). This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations.
The Child Mind Institute offers a comprehensive list of mental health disorders and guidance on how to talk with your parents if you need help.
Youth can always call or text the California Youth Crisis Line, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at: 1-800-843-5200
Teen Line is a non-profit, community based organization that provides emotional support to youth.
If you are a young person in crisis, feeling suicidal, or in need of a safe and judgment-free place to talk, call the TrevorLifeline now at 1-866-488-7386.
The Mighty is a growing community of people with lived experience sharing their honest stories. We help people connect with others around mental health, chronic illness, rare disease, disability, and more.
The statistics: You are not alone
Helping others
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People you care about can go through mental health challenges. This tip sheet was written by youth who have been through mental health challenges. This is what they wish their friends would have known to support them. (American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry)
The JED Foundation offers insight on how to tell if a friend is struggling, and how to help.
Click on the SAMHSA image provided to learn more.
The power of making art
The benefits of art in a child’s education are widespread. Art can help kids express themselves and understand the world around them. Art is usually a hands-on experience and fun. For low-income students, studies have found that kids who have more arts education in school see long-term benefits by both academic and social standards. (KQED)
