Behavioral Health Network STL

Today marks the beginning of Week 2 of Mental Health Awareness Month. This week’s theme is: “Early Support Matters: Recognizing Signs in Children and Youth.”

When it comes to children/youth, parents and caregivers are the first to notice changes. Paying attention to patterns, having open conversations, and connecting children and teens to support early can make a meaningful difference.

Young people thrive when support comes early. Encouraging open conversations about mental health can help children and teens feel supported in reaching out. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is a federal agency that provides resources on this topic. You can learn more at: https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/what-is-mental-health/how-to-talk/young-people

For information about how to tell if your child is drinking alcohol or using other drugs, go to:https://bhnstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/How-to-Tell-if-Your-Child-is-Drinking-or-Using-Drugs.pdf

To learn about how BHN’s Youth Emergency Room Enhancement (YERE) program is offering support for youth with mental and behavioral health challenges, go to:https://bhnstl.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/YERE-FY25-Annual-Report-Narrative-DRAFT.jm_.pdf

We are grateful for the opportunity to advocate for the most vulnerable in our community, including those who are unhoused or face challenges due to the housing and affordability crises Missouri is facing. Members of our BHN team were able to join the St. Louis CoC in this effort via an Advocacy Day in Jefferson City, MO - thank you to the CoC for having us!