Where mission
and heart meet Behavioral Health.

July, 2025

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Culture, Community, and Connection

Each July, we observe BIPOC Mental Health Month, a time to acknowledge and elevate the unique experiences and strength of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities. This year’s theme from Mental Health America, "Culture, Community, and Connection," reminds us that culture and identity are powerful sources of healing and resilience, especially for young people and families navigating behavioral health challenges from the prenatal stage through young adulthood.

In this issue

• Why this matters: Behavioral health and equity for ages Prenatal–25
• FIT provider resource
• Youth Network Wellness Summit – July 26 & 27
• WISe symposium 2025 – August 5 & 6
• Take Action: Build connection, celebrate culture
• Together in culture, care, and connection

Why this matters: Behavioral health and equity for ages Prenatal–25

BIPOC youth and young adults often face systemic barriers to mental health and substance use care, including lack of access, cultural stigma, and experiences of discrimination. These disparities begin early—Black women, for example, face alarming inequities in wellness through pregnancy and delivery, with higher rates of complications and limited access to culturally responsive perinatal mental health care.

Yet, research shows that community-based, culturally grounded approaches make a meaningful difference. From perinatal mental health support for BIPOC parents to youth-led mental wellness programs and peer support services in colleges, Washington communities are finding strength in shared identity and belonging.

Strength in Community

Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health for BIPOC Families 

Perinatal Support Washington has tailored programs that support BIPOC birthing people including a free Warm line staffed by trained volunteers with lived experience. Ayan Maternity provides culturally relevant perinatal support services to East African immigrants and refugees in King County, including doula services and early parenting support.

Youth Mental Health Peer Supports

Culturally rooted youth programs across Washington are engaging BIPOC teens and young adults through storytelling, art, and peer mentoring, creating safe spaces where identity is seen as a strength. Kids Mental Health Pierce County connects families with mental health resources for youth and teens, including referral services and support tailored to BIPOC youth.

Indigenous Healing Practices

In Washington, Tribal communities are weaving traditional healing into behavioral health care honoring intergenerational wisdom to support whole-person wellness. The Native and Strong Lifeline, part of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, is the first in the nation staffed by Native counselors, offering culturally informed crisis support 24/7.

Across the state, Tribes are tailoring care to their communities: the Cowlitz Indian Tribe offers culturally responsive behavioral health services that integrate traditional practices and values to promote healing and resilience. The NATIVE Project in Spokane centers culture, wellness, and prevention for Indigenous community members. Their youth programs include regular community wellness nights, leadership camps, and a summer program packed with mentoring, traditional teachings, fitness, nutrition, and academic support all designed to build resilience and divert youth from substance use.  

In case you missed it

FIT provider resource

Check out our Family Initiated Treatment guide for families, participants, and providers, designed to help youth, families, caregivers, and providers navigate support for youth in crisis.

Youth Network Wellness Summit – July 26 & 27

This summit is designed for young adults ages 18-35. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and improve youth wellness. This summit is designed for young adults 18-35.

WISe symposium 2025 – August 5 & 6

Join the Wraparound with Intensive Services (WISe) symposium to engage with professionals, families, and youth focused on intensive behavioral health support. This event offers valuable insights into community-based care models and collaborative strategies.

Take Action: Build connection, celebrate culture

• Listen to youth voices.
  • Elevate stories from BIPOC youth about mental health and substance use, identity, and hope.
• Support culturally affirming care.
  • Advocate for funding and training that builds a representative behavioral health workforce.
• Join local events.
  • Look for virtual or in-person community events celebrating BIPOC Mental Health Month.
• Explore Mental Health America’s resources.
  • Download tools and share content from their BIPOC Mental Health Month hub.

Together in culture, care, and connection

We believe in a future where all children, youth, young adults, and families no matter their race, ethnicity, or background have access to high-quality, culturally responsive behavioral health care. Washington Thriving supports this core belief systemically across Washington State. This month let’s reaffirm our commitment to equity, healing, and hope for all.