A Week Dedicated To Protecting And Fostering Our Youths' Mental Wellbeing
Supporting the mental health and well-being of young people is essential to their ability to learn, grow, and thrive. At a time when youth are facing increasing pressures, creating spaces for open conversation, early support, and meaningful connection has never been more important.
To advance this effort, Representative Johanna López introduced Florida House Resolution HR 8101, designating May 11–17, 2026, as Youth Mental Health Awareness Week—a statewide initiative focused on reducing stigma and strengthening support for children and adolescents. This recognition highlights the critical role of families, schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations in building environments where young people feel safe, heard, and supported.
In honor of this impactful week, the Mental Health Association of Central Florida will host a series of activities and resources designed to bring youth, caregivers, and the community together. Through interactive workshops and supportive conversations, participants will engage in youth-centered experiences that elevate teen voices, address today’s real challenges, and provide tools to build resilience and emotional well-being in a safe, stigma-free space.
Monday (May 11, 2026)
Join our Vice President of Operations, Lisseth Russa and our Director of Youth and Family Services, Desiree Andes, LMHC-QS, LMFT-QS, NCC, EMDR Certified at our networking social at the Sanford Clinic’s 2nd floor from 12:30pm to 2pm. This social event is an opportunity for youth-centric organizations and providers in Seminole County to network, tour our new location and share ideas on ways we can better serve our youth in Seminole County.
Tuesday (May 12, 2026)
Join our Director of Outpatient Services, Elizabeth Cruz and our Director of Youth and Family Services, Desiree Andes, LMHC-QS, LMFT-QS, NCC, EMDR Certified at the Sanford Clinic’s 2nd floor as they host a family game night from 6pm to 8pm. We will have plenty of board games and card games along with great conversations. This is a great way to strengthen familial bonds and meet some of your neighbors.
You must register to attend this FREE activity and spots are limited.
Wednesday (May 13, 2026)
Join our Director of Youth and Family Services, Desiree Andes, LMHC-QS, LMFT-QS, NCC, EMDR Certified from 6:30pm to 7pm as she equips caregivers and youth with skills to effectively navigate stressful situations. Participants are welcome to engage and ask questions throughout this interactive discussion-based virtual presentation titled “Strong Minds, Strong Families: Building Resilience Together.”
Thursday (May 14, 2026)
Art has been used for mental health support for many years through support groups, therapy, and workshops. Our Director of Youth and Family Services, Desiree Andes, LMHC-QS, LMFT-QS, NCC, EMDR Certified and our Youth and Family Services Program Coordinator, Amaya Dixon, will be hosting an art night at the Sanford Clinic’s 2nd floor from 6pm to 8pm where families and their youth will be able to connect and create an art piece. Amaya will also be presenting, explaining the intersection between art and mental health illustrating the positive effects of the arts on youths’ mental health.
You must register to attend this FREE activity and spots are limited.
Friday (May 15, 2026)
Our Director of Youth and Family Services, Desiree Andes, LMHC-QS, LMFT-QS, NCC, EMDR Certified will be interviewing Licensed Mental Health Therapist Madison Alvarez Brunk from Zebra Youth. Zebra Youth is an Orlando-based non-profit organization dedicated to supporting at-risk, homeless, and LGBTQ+ youth aged 13–24. They provide safe, affirming housing, mental health counseling, and support services to help young people recover from homelessness, bullying, and family isolation. During the video, the two will discuss ways in which we as a community can support LGBTQ+ Youth and their mental wellbeing.
