The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health launched the Office of Transition Age Youth on Nov. 24 to promote the mental health and wellbeing of young people ages 16 and 25 who are transitioning to adulthood. The program specifically focuses on connecting and engaging with youth, including those experiencing homelessness, by linking them to mental health resources, housing and essential services.

The Office of Transition Age Youth launched with a screening of the short film “Cope Safely” at LACDMH headquarters. The film amplifies the voices of three young adults and explores the realities of coping with mental health and substance use. The film was created in partnership with the UCLA Center of Excellence and Kids in the Spotlight, an organization that helps foster youth heal and grow from trauma through the power of storytelling and filmmaking.

“Transition aged youth is a priority population for the Department of Mental Health. Therefore, we are excited to announce the establishment of the Office of TAY, bringing together our TAY services under one team to support this important population,” LACDMH Director Dr. Lisa H. Wong said. “Ensuring that today’s youth are supported and prepared to handle life’s biggest challenges, the Office of TAY will serve as a central hub for coordination, policy development and youth engagement with programs and initiatives that are informed by lived experience and guided by the principles of prevention, inclusion and empowerment.”

The office’s core services are provided through field-based teams. However, additional vital services are offered including youth drop-in centers, substance use disorder support, workforce and job development and the Enhanced Emergency Shelter Program. To reach the Office of Transition Age Youth, call (213)738-6194 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., email [email protected] or call the LACDMH 24-hour Help Line at (800)854-7771.