News & Impact

Ryan had been struggling academically and socially since the beginning of the pandemic. He had looked forward to high school. Now he was spending his first year of high school online, without opportunities to make friends. Academically, Ryan had difficulty with remote learning and continually lost focus, which quickly led to him falling behind. Ryan’s confidence plummeted as he ended the school year with a C average, having been a straight-A student. The teen became withdrawn and severely depressed.

Ryan, with his mother and father, are now experiencing happier days thanks to JFCS’ mental health services.

Ryan is not alone. This month US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, issued a public health advisory on the mental health challenges confronting youth. According to Dr. Murthy, symptoms of depression and anxiety have doubled during the pandemic, with 25% of youth experiencing depressive symptoms and 20% experiencing anxiety symptoms.

Expanding Mental Health Services

JFCS provides thousands of Bay Area families with mental health services. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people desperate for help are calling JFCS every day. Our services are expanding to accommodate the need.

“JFCS is hiring additional highly qualified mental health professionals and parent consultants to address the rising need in these services,” says Dr. Garry Rayant, Co-Chair, JFCS Center for Children and Youth.

Thanks to our community partnerships, volunteer engagement, and generous donations from our community we are able to provide services to individuals and families throughout the Bay Area, and support those that would not otherwise be able to afford it.

Getting the Help That Is Needed

Worried and frightened by the change in her son, Ryan’s mom reached out to the school counselor for help and was referred to JFCS’ Center for Children and Youth (CCY) to evaluate his behavioral changes. Ryan now meets with one of our clinical psychologists regularly and is improving thanks to that support. The psychologist helped him manage the anxiety he felt about returning to in-person classes this fall, easing that pivotal transition and helping to rebuild his confidence.

His parents endured an emotional toll watching their son wither before their eyes. Ryan’s psychologist suggested they would benefit from professional counseling to guide them through these difficult parenting times, and they agreed.

“It’s the best parenting move we’ve made,” said Julie, Ryan’s mom. “There are so many hurdles that come up on this parenting journey. It’s a relief to have JFCS and our counselor by our side.”

JFCS is here for your family, always. If you or someone you care about needs help, please call us at 415-449-3700.

Learn more about JFCS’ Mental Health services >

Learn more about JFCS’ Center for Children and Youth >

To support JFCS mental health services for those who could not otherwise afford the help they need, please visit jfcs.org/donate