Mental Health Awareness Month 2026
Youth Mental Health Matters
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and open the door to conversations that can change lives.
In Chicago, the need is clear. Nearly 43% of high school students report feeling persistently sad or hopeless, and 16% have seriously considered suicide. Too many of these young people never receive the support they need.
Our Goal
At Youth Outreach Services (YOS), we believe every young person deserves to be seen, supported, and understood.
Every young person we serve is more than their current circumstances. They are future neighbors, mentors, parents, and leaders. When one young person heals, the impact extends across families and communities. This month we aim to raise awareness, share resources, and garner support for youth in need.
It starts with us.
Through counseling and supportive programs, YOS helps young people: Form trusted relationships with caring adults, build coping skills, develop resilience and more.
Donate to YOS today to support our goals this Mental Health Awareness Month.
Together, we can brighten their futures—one act of generosity at a time.