Media Advisory

For Immediate Release: September 25, 2025

Contact: Sandra Wellhausen
(619) 507-2077
swellhausen@sdyouthservices.org

San Diego Youth Services’ HERE Now Program Highlights National Suicide Prevention Month and creating opportunities to Change the Narrative on Suicide 

Speaking openly and directly about suicide can ease suicidal thoughts and often serves as the first step toward getting someone the help they need

San Diego, Calif (Sept. 24, 2025) — September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and San Diego Youth Services is raising awareness through its HERE Now School-Based Suicide Prevention and Early Intervention program, which provides life-saving services to youth across San Diego County.

With suicide remaining a leading cause of death among young people, HERE Now staff play a critical role in starting conversations about safety and offering support to teens experiencing suicidal thoughts. According to the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death for ages 10–14 and the third for ages 15–24.  This year’s theme for Suicide Prevention Month is Changing the Narrative. This month we want to #StartTheConversation and transform how we perceive this complex issue.

“It’s about shifting from a culture of silence and lack of understanding to one of openness, empathy and support,” said Amy Chavez, program manager, San Diego Youth Services HERE Now program. “By initiating these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness and create better cultures of understanding and support.”

Part of San Diego Youth Services’ mission speaks directly to this year's theme, especially concerning a common misconception that asking a young person if they feel suicidal might put the idea in their head. The reality is the opposite. Asking directly, listening with empathy and helping connect them to resources can be powerful steps toward healing and safety.

“By recognizing warning signs, fostering open communication, and ensuring access to resources, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of suicide among our youth,” said Chavez.

Through classroom presentations, staff training, and peer education, HERE Now equips schools and communities to talk openly about mental health, identify risks and provide timely intervention.

These services are invaluable considering the data from the CDC's 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Survey that highlights that nearly 20 percent of high school students report that they are seriously considering suicide, and almost 9 percent have attempted suicide.

“At San Diego Youth Services, we are privileged to walk alongside our clients during some of their most difficult moments,” said Jonathan Castillo, executive director, San Diego Youth Services. “Together, with schools and communities, we can change the narrative around suicide, break stigma and save lives.”

About San Diego Youth Services 

San Diego Youth Services has supported youth across San Diego County for more than 50 years, working to end the cycle of homelessness and help every young person thrive. The organization provides safe housing through shelters, foster homes, community centers, and long-term solutions, along with workforce development and other wraparound services that build self-sufficiency. Through prevention, early intervention, and programs like HERE Now, it also offers school-based outreach, crisis counseling and suicide prevention to create safe, healthy paths for youth.

For more information about San Diego Youth Services, visit: sdyouthservices.org

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