This is a recording of, “Interrupting Bullying & Fostering Belonging for the Youth and Young Adult Mental Health Workforce,” on October 25, 2023.

Our Pacific Southwest Region’s national specialty area is the mental health of youth and young adults of transitional age; as such, on our second day of our three-part series, we examined rising practices and policies, informed by research and the field, that can expand the way we approach anti-bullying and foster belonging for youth and young adults (18-24 year olds). Panelists highlighted bullying and belonging within the context of LGBTQ+, BIPOC populations, youth leadership and peer support roles. The session also uplifted young adult perspectives with lived experience in the foster care system and the Navajo Nation, and a focus on cyberbullying within Latinx youth communities.

Our Region 9's Technical Assistance and Training Specialist, Oriana Ides moderated this panel of special guests including, Ajahrain (Ajah) Yellowhair; Arc Telos Saint Amour, Executive Director of Youth MOVE National; and Dr. Guadelupe (Lupita) Espinoza, Professor in Child and Adolescent Studies at California State University, Fullerton. 

This session was designed for peer support professionals, young adult advocates, psychologists, counselors, community mental health workers, social workers, pre-service graduate students and whoever else is interested.