September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to face a hard truth and hold onto real hope. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Americans ages 10 to 34, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Orange County alone, at least 179...
South County Rotary Clubs Invite Community to Third Annual Mental Wellness Walk The Rotary Route returns to the Outlets of San Clemente on May 16 Mental health touches every family in South Orange County — and this May, South County Rotary Clubs are once again...
The ever-evolving social media landscape has fundamentally changed how we communicate, consume news, and find entertainment. As of 2025, reports indicated that roughly one in five U.S. teens are on TikTok and YouTube almost constantly. The integration of AI has...
At lunchtime a few times each month, I watch teens stream into our Strength In Numbers club meetings — some rushing in from a test, others from practice, and a few just looking for a place to breathe. Across the three high schools I support, each club has nearly 60...
As we approach the holiday season and youth head into winter break, it’s important to learn ways to navigate substance use prevention during this time. While the holidays are often associated with joy, celebration, and time with loved ones, they can also bring...
Two weeks ago, youth leaders from San Clemente High School attended The Center at Sierra Health Foundation - Youth Suicide Prevention Programs annual convening - Tomorrow Together: Youth Suicide Prevention Program. Wellness & Prevention Center staff accompanied...
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month nationwide, a time dedicated to amplifying the voices of mental health advocates and combating stigma. Stigma, rooted in negative attitudes and stereotypes, poses a significant barrier to accessing mental health care. It breeds...
This New Year's Eve, as my family always does, we went around the dinner table and shared our New Year's resolutions. A few days before, I felt overwhelmed by the idea of a resolution. I thought of all the things I hope to achieve—personally, professionally, and...
The Wellness & Prevention Center (WPC) is a 501c3 organization founded in 2014 by concerned community members to increase access to mental health services for local teens and families. We began supporting students and their families at San Clemente High School,...
Youth suicide is a growing concern, affecting millions of families across the world. The Center for Disease Control reports that in 2021 suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-14 and 20-34. In our own community, 18% of high school students...