Mental health: youth & teens

Education resources are available to support the behavior, emotional wellbeing and academic performance of children throughout Stark County. Find programs and services dedicated to providing a strong educational foundation for local students of all ages and abilities.

Find local resources, organizations and public assistance programs dedicated to making reliable, safe and affordable child care accessible to all families in Stark County. Child care assistance helps to pay a portion of your child care costs, so you can continue to work and support your family.

Not sure what to do with your kids when they’re not in school? Extra-curricular activities help to keep students engaged and out of trouble. Find out about some of the positive ways young people can get involved outside of the classroom. There are countless community resources, programs and organizations where children and teens can spend time, volunteer and have some fun. Learn about some of the top after-school activities available in Stark County.

Are you ready to seek treatment for a mental health condition? We know there are many reasons why reaching out for support might not be the easiest choice. But we also know it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your emotional wellness. And now there are alternatives to meeting with a counselor…

Whether stemming from behavioral challenges, societal pressures or an underlying mental health issue, eating disorders can affect anyone of any age, race, gender or background. They are just as dangerous as other illnesses, so it is important that these disorders are identified and treated right away. Find community resources available in Stark County to support you or a loved one who is struggling with bulimia, anorexia, binge eating or another eating disorder.

All residents should have access to safe and effective health care, regardless of age or income. If you are a teen, young adult or the parent of a young child, affordable, quality care is within your reach. Get the medical, dental, prescription or mental health coverage you need for a happy and healthy tomorrow.

Sometimes without warning, a child's behavior takes a noticeable change for the worse. If they become unusually sad or suddenly disruptive, it may be difficult to determine if it’s just a phase or a symptom of something more serious. Understanding the warning signs of a significant emotional issue can help you decide when to seek professional help.

The first time you experience a break in your perceptions or sense of reality, it can be frightening and difficult to understand. This early stage of psychosis can happen to people of all ages, and is the most critical time to seek treatment from a trusted mental health provider. Learn ways to identify the first episode of psychosis and find service providers in Stark County you can turn to for support.

Recovering from a traumatic event isn’t easy. Discovering and developing resiliency and coping skills may be easier with the help of a mental health professional.

No matter the challenges you might be facing, a support group could provide the encouragement you need to get through a difficult time. Find a safe, supportive and confidential environment to share your story.

Every young person experiences the pull of peer influence at one point or another. During the teen years, when the desire to conform is heightened, it can be tough to resist joining in the same risky behavior as one's friends, peers and classmates. But doing so can have harmful and lasting consequences.

Growing up can be a challenging and isolating experience, but the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone. No matter the adversity you might be facing, find the encouragement you need to move forward in a positive direction. Stark Help Central is a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for young people of all ages and backgrounds.