Mental Health Is Health: The Y’s Commitment to Community Care 

Mental health is part of all of us. It shapes how we think, feel, and connect with the world around us. At the Y, we believe that mental well-being is just as important as physical health and that caring for our minds and hearts is a shared responsibility. 

Every day, the Y supports mental health through what we call community care - the everyday actions that help people feel seen, supported, and safe. Whether it’s a child learning confidence at summer camp, a new member finding belonging, or a neighbor discovering the joy of movement, we’re here to help everyone thrive. 

Here’s how we practice community care at the Y: 

• Recognizing that everyone has mental health, and it deserves attention and care. 
• Encouraging positive self-care habits that build resilience and joy. 
• Creating space for real conversations, rooted in empathy and connection. 
• Modeling healthy ways to manage emotions and stress. 
• Knowing the signs when someone might be struggling and responding with compassion. 
• Connecting individuals to trusted mental health resources when needed. 
• Being present in moments of crisis, offering calm and care. 
• Collaborating with others to make mental health support a visible, natural part of community life. 
• Providing a space for exercise; exercise eases symptoms of depression and anxiety. 

Help is available!

Informal support is not therapy, nor does it replace formal support (i.e., diagnosis, prescription, and treatment.) Information support complements formal support by reinforcing healthy behaviors, increasing protective factors and building resilience. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988.

At the Y, we believe that mental health is not just personal; it’s communal. Together, we can build a culture where everyone feels supported, valued, and empowered to be their full selves. 

Learn How You Can Make a Difference

• Intentionally asking "how are you?" and encouraging honest answers so others can share and feel heard.
• Bringing empathy, compassion and kindess to your daily interactions.
• Use your powers of observation to notice when someone may be struggling with a hard day, moment or situation.
• When you notice someone struggling, connect them to mental health resources.
• Want to do more, Join the YMCA Advocates Action Network and use your voice to help advance legislation at the local, state and federal level that promotes mental health and wellness. 

SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH FOR TEENS

While physical illnesses affect part of your body, mental illnesses affect your emotions, thinking or behavior— and sometimes a combination of all three. Mental health challenges are very common, and it’s OK to not feel OK. But it’s important to get help when needed. Visit our Teen Mental Health page for more information and learn about our teen programs. We are here to help!