In May 2025, the “Now What? Healing Through Creativity & Action” listening session brought together 35 young people ages 13–24 from across Sacramento County to speak openly about suicide prevention and mental health. Centering youth voice—especially from BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities—the session created a healing space through peer-led discussions, creative activities, and shared reflection.

Click here to view the event recap video.

Youth participants offered powerful insight into what’s working, what’s missing, and what’s needed moving forward.

Key takeaways from the report:

Click here to view the findings from the listening session.

Themes

• Youth feel dismissed, judged, or unsupported in traditional systems.
• Creativity, nature, and peer connection are essential for healing.
• Representation, safety, and being heard matter deeply.

Youth Recommendations

• Normalize mental health conversations at school, home, and in the media.
• Create chill, judgment-free zones with peer-led and arts-based support.
• Ensure consistent, trauma-informed care that reflects youth realities.

Calls to Action

• Prioritize emotional safety and non-judgmental adult allies.

• Invest in youth-designed and youth-led mental health solutions.

• Expand culturally responsive resources in schools and communities.

In Partnership With:

This youth-led listening session was made possible by the vision and collaboration of the Behavioral Health Youth Advisory Board (BHYAB), Stanford Sierra Youth & Families, Wind Youth Services, and River Oak Center for Children—with support from the California Department of Public Health and Sacramento County Behavioral Health Services.