Skip to main content

2026 BYM Suicide Prevention Month

Page 1

September/October 2026 Issue

Each One

Reach One

SUICIDE AWARENESS & PREVENTION ISSUE ★ NOW SERVING 3 COUNTIES

HABLEMOS DE VIDA. ROMPIENDO EL SILENCIO. TULARE RIVERSIDE SAN BERNARDINO COUNTIES

Scan Me Digital Copy


Gwendolyn Schrank Publisher & CEO, Breathe YOU Matter Media gwen@breatheyoumatter.com

Dear Community

www.breatheyoumatter.com

September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, and this issue carries that weight on purpose. Years ago, someone taught me a phrase that has shaped every page of Breathe YOU Matter since: Each One, Reach One. It's a simple idea — that healing rarely happens alone, and that one honest conversation, one hand extended, one person willing to stay, can change everything for someone else. This issue is full of those hands: peer stories told in the reader's own words, resources for the counties we call home, and reminders that asking for help is not weakness — it's survival in progress. If you are struggling, please reach one. Call or text 988. And if you're steady enough today to reach someone else, do that too. With you, every issue, Best Regards

Gwendolyn Schrank Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Breathe YOU Matter gwen@breatheyoumatter.com · www.breatheyoumatter.com

Copyright & Disclaimer © 2026 Breathe YOU Matter (BYM) Media, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted without prior written permission, except for brief excerpts used in reviews or as permitted by law. The views expressed by contributors and featured individuals are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of BYM Media, LLC. Content is provided for informational and peer-support purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or legal advice. If you are experiencing a crisis, call or text 988. AI Usage Statement Portions of this issue's layout and design were developed with the assistance of AI tools. All editorial content, peer stories, and quotes were written, reviewed, and approved by BYM's editorial team and the individuals featured. AI was not used to generate or alter personal testimony.


Estimado lector: Septiembre es el Mes de Prevención y Concientización sobre el Suicidio, y esta edición lleva ese peso a propósito. Hace años, alguien me enseñó una frase que ha dado forma a cada página de Breathe YOU Matter desde entonces: Cada Uno, Alcanza a Uno. Es una idea sencilla — que la sanación rara vez ocurre en soledad, y que una conversación honesta, una mano extendida, una persona dispuesta a quedarse, puede cambiarlo todo para alguien más. Esta edición está llena de esas manos: historias de pares contadas con sus propias palabras, recursos para los condados que llamamos hogar, y recordatorios de que pedir ayuda no es debilidad — es sobrevivencia en progreso. Si estás luchando, por favor alcanza a uno. Llama o envía un mensaje de texto al 988. Y si hoy tienes la fuerza para alcanzar a alguien más, hazlo también. Contigo, en cada edición,

Gwendolyn Schrank

Fundadora y Editora en Jefe, Breathe YOU Matter

www.breatheyoumatter.com

Derechos de Autor y Aviso Legal © 2026 Breathe YOU Matter (BYM) Media, LLC. Todos los derechos reservados. Ninguna parte de esta publicación puede ser reproducida, distribuida o transmitida sin permiso previo por escrito, salvo breves extractos utilizados en reseñas o según lo permita la ley. Las opiniones expresadas por colaboradores y personas destacadas son suyas y no reflejan necesariamente las opiniones de BYM Media, LLC. El contenido se proporciona únicamente con fines informativos y de apoyo entre pares, y no sustituye el consejo médico, de salud mental o legal de un profesional. Si estás en crisis, llama o envía un mensaje de texto al 988. Declaración sobre el Uso de IA Partes del diseño y la maquetación de esta edición fueron desarrolladas con la ayuda de herramientas de inteligencia artificial. Todo el contenido editorial, las historias de pares y las citas fueron escritas, revisadas y aprobadas por el equipo editorial de BYM y las personas destacadas. La IA no fue utilizada para generar ni alterar ningún testimonio personal.

Gwendolyn Schrank

Publisher & CEO, Breathe YOU Matter Media gwen@breatheyoumatter.com


BREATHE YOU MATTER

Each One, Reach One September / October 2026 · Bilingual Edition Southern California & Central Valley Riverside · San Bernardino · Tulare A season of noticing yourself — whole-person wellness, peer-told recovery stories, and community resources for the counties BYM calls home.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

— Cover Feature

— Special Announcement

Each One, Reach One ·

BYM Youth Sports Edition 2027 ·

— Feature · Childhood Wellness

— Peer Story · San Bernardino County

Meet the Publisher · Cada Uno, Alcanza a Uno

The Case for Balance ·

Coming January 2027

Hold On, Stay Here ·

Why Kids Need Room to Breathe · El Caso a Favor del Equilibrio

Marvin's Story: Learning to Stay · Aguanta, Quédate Aquí

Suicide Rates in Elementary & Middle School-Aged Kids ·

— Partner & Business Directory

10 Ways Parents Can Build Balance ·

Parenting Network · National Nonprofit Day ·

— Youth Voices · Tulare County Recognizing the Warning Signs in Teens · Cómo Reconocer las Señales de Alerta

Parent / Guardian Guide: Starting the Conversation ·

— Spotlights CBO Spotlight: Able Inc. ·

Whole-Person Care & Workforce Pathways · Tulare County

Chamber Spotlight: Visalia Chamber of Commerce ·

Where Business Builds Community & Wellness

Local Business Spotlight Directory ·

— Resource Guide Community Resource Corkboard · Crisis Lines · Warmlines · Support Groups

County Resource Boards — Riverside, San Bernardino & Tulare · Community Spotlight: World Suicide Prevention Day ·

— Feature Shea Tamez: Turning Perseverance Into Purpose ·

Faith, Resilience & Legacy · Impact Visionary Network

— BYM Community Voices Season of You ·

A Cozy, Whole-Person Kind of Fall · Tu Temporada

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

Every feature runs bilingually unless noted. Crisis Support: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988, 24/7

Listen, Play, Reflect — Playlist & Word Search · Family & Legal Resources Directory · 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Awareness · 60

Breathe YOU Matter · California's Peer Support Publication

breatheyoumatter.com


BREATHE YOU MATTER

ÍNDICE

— Artículo de Portada Cada Uno, Alcanza a Uno ·

Conozca a la Editora · Each One, Reach One

— Reportaje · Bienestar Infantil El Caso a Favor del Equilibrio ·

Por Qué los Niños Necesitan Espacio para Respirar

Tasas de Suicidio en Niños de Primaria y Secundaria · 10 Formas en que los Padres Pueden Crear Equilibrio ·

— Voces Juveniles · Condado de Tulare Cómo Reconocer las Señales de Alerta en los Adolescentes · Guía para Padres y Tutores: Cómo Iniciar la Conversación ·

— Destacados Destacado CBO: Able Inc. ·

Cuidado Integral y Rutas de Empleo · Condado de Tulare

Destacado de la Cámara: Cámara de Comercio de Visalia ·

Donde los Negocios Construyen Comunidad y Bienestar

— Voces de la Comunidad BYM Tu Temporada ·

Un Otoño Acogedor Para Todo Tu Ser

Escucha, Juega, Reflexiona — Lista de Canciones y Sopa de Letras · Directorio de Recursos Familiares y Legales · Concientización de la Línea de Crisis 988 · 60

— Anuncio Especial BYM Edición de Deportes Juveniles 2027 · Llega en enero de 2027

Casa Uno, Alcanza a Uno

— Historia de Pares · Condado de San Bernardino Aguanta, Quédate Aquí ·

La Historia de Marvin: Aprendiendo a Quedarme

— Directorio de Socios y Negocios Parenting Network · Día Nacional de las Organizaciones Sin Fines de Lucro · Directorio de Negocios Locales Destacados ·

— Guía de Recursos Tablero Comunitario de Recursos ·

Líneas de Crisis · Líneas Cálidas · Grupos de Apoyo

Tableros de Recursos por Condado — Riverside, San Bernardino y Tulare · Reportaje Comunitario: Día Mundial para la Prevención del Suicidio ·

Septiembre / Octubre 2026 · Edición Bilingüe Sur de California y Valle Central Riverside · San Bernardino · Tulare Una temporada para notarte a ti mismo/a — bienestar integral, historias de recuperación contadas entre pares, y recursos comunitarios para los condados que BYM llama hogar.

— Artículo Shea Tamez: Convirtiendo la Perseverancia en Propósito ·

Fe, Resiliencia y Legado · Impact Visionary Network

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

Cada artículo aparece en ambos idiomas, salvo que se indique lo contrario. Apoyo en Crisis: Línea de Crisis y Suicidio 988 — llame o envíe un mensaje de texto al 988, las 24 horas

Breathe YOU Matter · Publicación de Apoyo Entre Pares de California

breatheyoumatter.com


COVER FEATURE • MEET THE PUBLISHER

PHOTO PLACEHOLDER Replace with a photo of Gwen Schrank — drag your image over this box in Canva

Each One, Reach One

The woman behind Breathe YOU Matter — and the struggle that never fully ends By BYM Edito rial S ta f f


HOLD ON, STAY HERE. — SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2026

Gwendolyn “Gwenˮ Schrank never set out to build a magazine. She set out to survive. In 2019, a mental health crisis brought Gwen to the hospital for a week. In the months that followed, as she worked to rebuild, she ran into a wall many Californians know well: she didn't qualify for MediCal, and the programs that could have helped her simply weren't there. So she built one herself.

Gwen founded Schrank's Clubhouse, a peer-run organization rooted in self-advocacy, stopping stigma, and suicide prevention and awareness. It gave people a place to be believed, regardless of who they were or what they had been through — and it gave Gwen a way to turn her own survival into something that could fund help for others. Peer support groups, a community resource network, and eventually, a magazine: Breathe YOU Matter was born so people going through it could see their own stories reflected back at them. Here's what Gwen wants readers in Riverside and San Bernardino counties — home to BYM's newest expansion — to know about the woman behind the masthead: the struggle didn't end when the magazine launched.

Gwen is a suicide attempt survivor, and peer support has been part of how she stays connected to people who understand what that carries. But recovery isn't a finish line. Gwen still has seasons of suicidal ideation, depression, and anxiety, stirred up by the ordinary weight of family, career, and a world that rarely slows down. She talks about this openly, on purpose — because pretending it's over helps no one, and because someone in Tulare, Riverside, or San Bernardino County needs to hear that surviving doesn't mean the work stops.

What's changed is that Gwen built a system for it. Drawing on the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) model, she developed her own personal safety plan — concrete steps, people to call, warning signs to watch for — that she leans on when the ideation returns. It's not a cure. It's a way to stay alive long enough for the hard season to pass. Gwen recently relocated to Southern California to widen BYM's reach into these five counties, carrying everything she's learned along the way. Her next chapter in healing isn't about arriving somewhere finished — it's about holding on to her faith, her family, and her friends, one day at a time.

“She was taught a saying years ago that now shapes every issue of this magazine: Each One, Reach One.”

If you are struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or reach the CA Peer-Run Warm Line at 1-855-845-7415.


ARTÍCULO DE PORTADA • CONOZCA A LA EDITORA

Cada Uno, Alcanza a Uno La mujer detrás de Breathe YOU Matter — y la lucha que nunca termina por completo Por el Equ ip o Ed itor ial d e BYM


HABLEMOS DE VIDA. ROMPIENDO EL SILENCIO. — SEPT / OCT 2026

Gwendolyn “Gwenˮ Schrank nunca se propuso crear una revista. Se propuso sobrevivir. En 2019, una crisis de salud mental llevó a Gwen al hospital durante una semana. En los meses que siguieron, mientras trabajaba para reconstruirse, se topó con un obstáculo que muchos californianos conocen bien: no calificaba para Medi-Cal, y los programas que podrían haberla ayudado simplemente no existían. Así que construyó uno ella misma. Gwen fundó Schrank's Clubhouse, una organización dirigida por pares centrada en la autodefensa, la lucha contra el estigma, y la prevención y concientización sobre el suicidio. Le dio a las personas un lugar donde ser creídas, sin importar quiénes eran o lo que habían vivido — y le dio a Gwen una manera de convertir su propia supervivencia en algo que pudiera financiar ayuda para otros. Grupos de apoyo entre pares, una red de recursos comunitarios y, finalmente, una revista: Breathe YOU Matter nació para que las personas que atraviesan estas experiencias pudieran ver sus propias historias reflejadas. Esto es lo que Gwen quiere que los lectores de los condados de Riverside y San Bernardino — sede de la nueva expansión de BYM — sepan sobre la mujer detrás de esta publicación: la lucha no terminó cuando se lanzó la revista.

Gwen es sobreviviente de un intento de suicidio, y el apoyo entre pares ha sido parte de cómo se mantiene conectada con personas que entienden lo que eso conlleva. Pero la recuperación no es una meta final. Gwen todavía atraviesa períodos de ideación suicida, depresión y ansiedad, provocados por el peso cotidiano de la familia, la carrera profesional y un mundo que rara vez se detiene. Habla de esto abiertamente, a propósito — porque fingir que ya pasó no ayuda a nadie, y porque alguien en Tulare, Riverside o San Bernardino necesita escuchar que sobrevivir no significa que el trabajo termine. Lo que ha cambiado es que Gwen creó un sistema para manejarlo. Basándose en el modelo WRAP (Plan de Acción para la Recuperación del Bienestar), desarrolló su propio plan de seguridad personal — pasos concretos, personas a quienes llamar, señales de alerta que vigilar — en el que se apoya cuando regresa la ideación. No es una cura. Es una forma de mantenerse con vida el tiempo suficiente para que pase la temporada difícil. Gwen se mudó recientemente al sur de California para ampliar el alcance de BYM a estos cinco condados, llevando consigo todo lo que ha aprendido en el camino. Su próximo capítulo de sanación no se trata de llegar a un punto final — se trata de aferrarse a su fe, su familia y sus amistades, un día a la vez.

“Le enseñaron un dicho hace años que ahora da forma a cada edición de esta revista: Cada uno, alcanza a uno.”

Si estás pasando por una crisis, no estás solo/a. Llama o envía un mensaje de texto al 988 (Línea de Prevención del Suicidio y Crisis), envía HOME al 741741 (Línea de Texto de Crisis), o comunícate con la Línea Cálida entre Pares de California al 1-855-845-7415.


BYM Youth Sports Edition 2027

C

O

M

IN

Southern California • Central Valley • Bilingual

G

S

O

O

Coming January 2027 Celebrating the young athletes of our community Sign Your Sports League Up For California BYM All Stars Our Kids Matter! Their Journey Matters! Email: info@breatheyoumatter.com for more information

N


BREATHE YOU MATTER

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

COMMUNITY WELLNESS MAGAZINE

SOMETHING BIG IS COMING TO

BYM SPORTS EDITION Celebrating the young athletes in California

COMING

JANUARY 2027

THREE WAYS TO GET IN ON THE ACTION

Start the Season with Us

FAMILIES

LEAGUES & TEAMS

SPONSORS & BUSINESSES

Nominate your young athlete for a Rising Star feature and see your team in digital magazine— bilingual, hometown, and made for your family to keep.

Get your league featured, recognized, and connected to real fundraising support — from Little League to Special Olympics to jump rope crews.

Nominate Your Athlete

Register Your League

Reserve advertising space and sponsor-a-team packages before launch — be part of the story from Issue One, not issue ten. Reserve Ad Space

Be Part of the Story from Day One. Scan the code or reach out today to nominate an athlete, register your league, or reserve sponsor space ahead of our January 2027 launch.

info@breatheyourmatter.com

SCAN TO GET INVOLVED


BREATHE YOU MATTER

The Case for Balance Why Kids Need Room to Breathe

El Caso a Favor del Equilibrio Por Qué los Niños Necesitan Espacio para Respirar

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

•

A bilingual feature on childhood balance & youth mental health


ENGLISH

·

FEATURE

Kids Are Busier Than Ever — And It's Taking a Toll Between the first bell and the last extracurricular pickup, the modern childhood has become a full calendar. School, homework, sports, lessons, tutoring, and family obligations are squeezed into every hour. Many kids are busier than their parents — and a growing body of research shows the lack of unstructured time is taking a real toll on their mental health.

WHAT THE DATA SHOWS

1 in 5

~30%

children in the U.S. has a diagnosed mental health disorder — nearly half go untreated.

rise in anxiety & depression diagnoses among kids 6–17 since 2020.

83%

~40%

of teens cite school and grade pressure as a top source of stress.

of high schoolers report persistent sadness or hopelessness.

60%

20%

of youth with major depression receive no treatment at all.

of students report seriously considering suicide (CDC survey data).

Sources: CDC, JAMA Pediatrics, Mental Health America, U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory.

Breathe YOU Matter | English Edition


ENGLISH

·

FEATURE

Suicide Rates in Elementary & Middle School-Aged Kids This is a hard subject, but it matters to look at honestly. Deaths in children ages 5–9 are too rare for the CDC to report a stable rate. For ages 10–14 — late elementary through middle school — here is what the data shows:

2009

→ 2019: Boys ages 10–14

rate nearly doubled, from 1.6 to 3.1 deaths per 100,000.

2009

→ 2019: Girls ages 10–14

rate more than doubled, from 0.9 to 2.0 deaths per 100,000.

2007

→ 2021: Ages 10–24 overall

rates rose 62%, from 6.8 to 11.0 per 100,000, peaking in 2021 during the pandemic.

2021

→ 2024 (most recent CDC data)

a genuine, significant decline in the 10–14 age group — encouraging, though still above early-2000s lows, and girls' rates have improved more slowly than boys'.

Firearms remain the leading method in youth suicide deaths; safe storage is one of the most effective prevention steps a family can take.

If a child is in crisis: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) • Text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)

Breathe YOU Matter | English Edition


ENGLISH

·

FEATURE

10 Ways Parents Can Build Balance 1

Audit the calendar honestly

6

Map a typical week hour by hour. If open time is rare, something comes off the list.

2

Protect unstructured time

Kids learn what balance looks like by watching the adults around them.

7

Treat downtime as non-negotiable, not the first thing cut when life gets busy.

3

Limit extracurriculars

Watch for chronic stress Sleep trouble, stomachaches, irritability, or withdrawal can signal overwhelm.

5

Build in daily check-ins A car ride or bedtime chat gives kids a lowpressure moment to open up.

Breathe YOU Matter | English Edition

Prioritize sleep 9–12 hrs for elementary kids, 9–11 for middle schoolers — sleep debt fuels anxiety.

8

One activity per season for younger kids; expand only as they show they can handle it.

4

Model balance yourself

Teach kids to self-advocate Let them help shape their own schedule as they get older.

9

Normalize talking about feelings Kids who hear feelings discussed openly are more likely to ask for help.

10 Know when to get support A pediatrician or child therapist can help — early is always better than late.


THE BOTTOM LINE

A full schedule isn't automatically a harmful one, and ambition, sports, and activities aren't the enemy. The problem is a childhood with no margin — no space to rest, play freely, or simply exist without a task attached. Teaching kids to build and protect that balance from a young age is one of the most protective things a parent can do for their long-term mental health.

This article discusses youth suicide statistics for informational purposes. If your child is showing signs of emotional distress, talk to their pediatrician or a mental health professional.

In crisis? Call or text 988 • Text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line)

Breathe YOU Matter | English Edition


ESPAÑOL

·

REPORTAJE

Los Niños Están Más Ocupados Que Nunca — y Eso Tiene un Costo Entre el primer timbre y la última actividad extracurricular, la niñez moderna se ha convertido en una agenda llena. Escuela, tarea, deportes, clases, tutorías y obligaciones familiares ocupan cada hora. Muchos niños están más ocupados que sus padres — y las investigaciones muestran que la falta de tiempo libre está afectando su salud mental.

LO QUE MUESTRAN LOS DATOS

1 de cada 5

~30%

niños en EE. UU. tiene un trastorno de salud mental diagnosticado — casi la mitad no recibe tratamiento.

de aumento en diagnósticos de ansiedad y depresión en niños de 6 a 17 años desde 2020.

83%

~40%

de los adolescentes citan la presión escolar y las calificaciones como su principal fuente de estrés.

de estudiantes de secundaria reportan tristeza o desesperanza persistente.

60%

20%

de los jóvenes con depresión mayor no reciben ningún tratamiento.

de los estudiantes ha considerado seriamente el suicidio (datos del CDC).

Fuentes: CDC, JAMA Pediatrics, Mental Health America, Cirujano General de EE. UU.

Breathe YOU Matter | Edición en Español


ESPAÑOL

·

REPORTAJE

Tasas de Suicidio en Niños de Primaria y Secundaria Este es un tema difícil, pero es importante abordarlo con honestidad. Las muertes en niños de 5 a 9 años son demasiado poco frecuentes para que el CDC reporte una tasa estable. Para el grupo de 10 a 14 años —final de primaria a secundaria— esto es lo que muestran los datos: 2009

→ 2019: Niños de 10 a 14 años

la tasa casi se duplicó, de 1.6 a 3.1 muertes por cada 100,000.

2009

→ 2019: Niñas de 10 a 14 años

la tasa más que se duplicó, de 0.9 a 2.0 muertes por cada 100,000.

2007

→ 2021: Edades 10 a 24 en general

las tasas subieron 62%, de 6.8 a 11.0 por cada 100,000, con su punto más alto en 2021 durante la pandemia.

2021

→ 2024 (datos más recientes del CDC)

una disminución real y significativa en el grupo de 10 a 14 años —alentador, aunque aún por encima de los niveles de principios de los 2000, y la mejora ha sido más lenta en las niñas.

Las armas de fuego siguen siendo el método principal en los suicidios juveniles; el almacenamiento seguro es una de las medidas de prevención más efectivas.

Si un niño está en crisis: Llame o envíe un mensaje de texto al 988 • Envíe HOLA al 741741 (Línea de Crisis por Texto)

Breathe YOU Matter | Edición en Español


ESPAÑOL

·

REPORTAJE

10 Formas en que los Padres Pueden Crear Equilibrio 1

Revisen el calendario con honestidad

6

Anoten una semana típica hora por hora. Si casi no hay tiempo libre, algo debe salir de la lista.

2

Protejan el tiempo libre

Los niños aprenden observando a los adultos que los rodean.

7

Prioricen el sueño

8

Enseñen a los niños a defenderse

Traten el descanso como algo innegociable, no como lo primero que se elimina.

3

Limiten las actividades extracurriculares Una actividad por temporada para niños pequeños; aumenten solo si lo manejan bien.

4

5

Observen el estrés crónico Problemas de sueño, dolor de estómago, irritabilidad o aislamiento pueden indicar agotamiento.

Establezcan momentos diarios de conexión Un viaje en auto o la hora de dormir dan espacio para hablar sin presión.

Breathe YOU Matter | Edición en Español

Sean un ejemplo de equilibrio

9 a 12 horas para niños de primaria, 9 a 11 para secundaria — la falta de sueño alimenta la ansiedad.

Permítanles ayudar a definir su propio horario conforme crecen.

9

Normalicen hablar de las emociones Los niños que escuchan hablar de sentimientos abiertamente piden ayuda con más facilidad.

10 Sepan cuándo buscar apoyo Un pediatra o terapéuta infantil puede ayudar — antes es siempre mejor que después.


Calm Sometimes the blessings are not in what He gives, but in what He take away Patience is not about how long you can wait, but how well you behave while you are waiting

@reallygreatsite

REMINDER

Water, a a calm mind, heart full of love


BREATHE

YOU

MATTER

Community Resource Corkboard Crisis Lines · Warmlines · Behavioral Health Access

· Support Groups · Business Directory

San Bernardino County

San Bernardino · Rialto Ontario · Redlands · Victorville

Riverside County ings Spr Menifee · Perris · Palm

Tulare County

Visalia · Porterville Tulare · Dinuba · Exeter

de Lake Elsinore · Riversi

How to use this board

Each card lists a real phone number you or someon e you love can call today. Post this where people gather — offices, waiting rooms, community centers — English & Spanish.

BREATHE YOU MATTER · Community Resource Corkboard · Editable in Canva

CRISIS LINES & WARMLINES · AVAILABLE STATEWIDE 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Call or text 988 Chat: 988lifeline.org Free, confidential, 24/7

Veterans Crisis Line

Dial 988, then press 1 Or text 838255 · 24/7

Disaster Distress Helpline Call or text 1-800-985-5990 24/7 support after disaster or crisis

Crisis Text Line

For everyone in Riverside, San Bernardino & Tulare Counties

CA Peer-Run Warm Line

Text HOME to 741741 Free, 24/7 text-based support

Call or text 1-855-845-7415 Non-crisis emotional support · 24/7 Español: CalHOPE Connect 833-642-7696

th)

Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ You

Trans Lifeline

Call 1-866-488-7386 Text START to 678678 · 24/7

Call 1-877-565-8860 Peer-run, by & for trans people No non-consensual police contact

Take My Hand (Peer Chat)

Emergency

takemyhand.co Live chat with people with lived exper

BREATHE YOU MATTER · Community Resource Corkboard · Editable in Canva

ience

911 Life-threatening emergency: call in immediate danger Always the first call if someone is


RIVERSIDE COUNTY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ACCESS & CRISIS

RUHS Behavioral Health Help Line

951-686-HELP (4357) 24/7 mobile crisis response & referrals other behavioral health emergencies Handles suicidal thoughts, substance use &

CARES Line (Medi-Cal Access)

Information & referrals for Medi-Cal / Riversid e County Health Plan behavioral health services Does not provide crisis counseling

County-wide referrals: dial 211 SUPPORT GROUPS & PEER RESOURCES

NAMI Western Riverside County

Family & peer support groups www.namiwesternriverside.org

NAMI Mt. San Jacinto Peer & family support groups www.namimtsanjacinto.org

Peer Support & Resource Centers

Open to any community member exploring

wellness & recovery — connect via 951-686-H

ELP

24/7 Mental Health Urgent Care Riverside: (951) 509-2499 Perris: (951) 349-4195 Palm Springs: (442) 268-7000 Walk-in, no appointment, all welcome

First 5 Riverside (Families)

1-800-266-3880 for families with young children Family Resource Centers · mental health support

BREATHE YOU MATTER · Community Resource Corkboard · Editable in Canva

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ACCESS & CRISIS

DBH 24/7 Access & Crisis Line

1-888-743-1478 and crisis support · 24/7 Mental health & substance use info, referrals,

County-wide referrals: dial 211 SUPPORT GROUPS & PEER RESOURCES

NAMI San Bernardino Area

Peer & family support groups www.namisb.org

Crisis Walk-In Centers (CWIC)

Mobile Crisis Response

Call 1-800-398-0018 Text 909-420-0560 In English & Spanish · psychiatric emergenc ies, all ages

t · all ages

Voluntary crisis intervention & risk assessmen www.wp.sbcounty.gov/dbh/urgentcare

Office of Suicide Prevention

In Crisis, Don't Need 911?

(909) 387-6221 dbh-osp@dbh.sbcounty.gov Awareness, training & prevention resources

909-386-8256 8-2636 Substance use & recovery services: 1-800-96 TTY: 711 / TDD 1-888-743-1481

Legal Aid for Behavioral Health

(909) 421-4657 Complaints/grievances: (800) 440-2391 or Advocates for consumer rights

BREATHE YOU MATTER · Community Resource Corkboard · Editable in Canva

TULARE COUNTY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH ACCESS & CRISIS

Behavioral Health Access & Crisis Line 1-800-320-1616 24/7 · Psychiatric Emergency Team (PET) response English & Spanish

County-wide referrals: 211tularecounty.org SUPPORT GROUPS & PEER RESOURCES

NAMI Tulare County

Peer & family support groups www.namitularecounty.org

Substance Use Disorder Access Line

Central California Family Crisis Center

Tulare County Warm Line

9-organization coalition addressing youth opioid use across Tulare County Peer-led community wellness network. info@breatheyoumatter.com

1-866-732-4114 24/7, confidential · treatment referrals

1-800-306-2413 Non-crisis peer emotional support

Problem Resolution / Grievances

Behavioral Health: 1-800-500-4465 Substance Use Disorder: 1-833-433-4988

BREATHE YOU MATTER · Community Resource Corkboard · Editable in Canva

(559) 781-7462 Family & crisis support services

Clean Slate Coalition

211 Tulare County

www.211tularecounty.org resources Free referrals to housing, food, health & crisis


COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

HOLD ON, STAY HERE · SEPT/OCT 2026

World Suicide Prevention Day Sept. 10, 2026

This year's global focus: Changing the Narrative on Suicide — moving from silence to open, compassionate conversation.

Across Riverside, San Bernardino, and Tulare counties, community members will gather this September for walks, trainings, and awareness events that carry one shared message: you are not alone, and help is real. This spotlight follows the confirmed calendar — from county behavioral health departments to AFSP and NAMI chapters — as our neighbors turn awareness into action. En todo el condado de Riverside, San Bernardino y Tulare, la comunidad se reunirá este septiembre para caminatas, capacitaciones y eventos de concientización con un mismo mensaje: no estás solo, y la ayuda es real.

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE IS STRUGGLING Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — free, confidential, available 24/7 in English and Spanish.

Breathe YOU Matter

Breathe

YOU

CA LIF ORNIA 'S

14

MATTER

P E E R

S UP P ORT

P UB LICAT ION


CHAMBER SPOTLIGHT

Where Business Builds Community & Wellness Visalia Chamber of Commerce A healthy local economy and a healthy community are the same project wearing two different hats. For over a century, the Visalia Chamber of Commerce has served as a catalyst, convener, and champion for local business — a table where restaurant owners, healthcare providers, nonprofits, and reentry advocates all pull up a chair together, and where community wellness is increasingly part of the business conversation.

SEPTEMBER–OCTOBER HIGHLIGHTS SEPT 12

OCT 1

Empty Bowls — Visalia Rescue Mission

Building Stronger Teams: Mental Health, Team Building & Morale

SEPT 19

OCT 1

Bites, Brews & Arts Festival

Leadership Recharge — Leadership Visalia Alumni Network

SEPT 25

OCT 17

Oktoberfest & United Way Recognition Breakfast

Taste the Arts

WHY JOIN THE TABLE 1

A Seat at the Table

2

100+ community and business events a year to build real relationships.

3

Peer Network

Connection to decision-makers through advocacy and civic programs.

4

650+ member businesses and nonprofits asking the same questions you are.

Direct Access

Growing Visibility Ribbon cuttings, mixers, and features that put your mission in front of new people.

Because when business and community wellness grow together, everybody breathes a little easier. visaliachamber.org • 220 S Mooney Blvd, STE B, Visalia, CA 93291 • (559) 734-5876 As featured in Breathe YOU Matter Magazine


DESTACADO DE LA CÁMARA

Donde los Negocios Construyen Comunidad — y Bienestar Cámara de Comercio de Visalia Una economía local saludable y una comunidad saludable son el mismo proyecto con dos sombreros distintos. Por más de un siglo, la Cámara de Comercio de Visalia ha sido catalizadora, convocante y defensora de los negocios locales — una mesa donde restaurantes, proveedores de salud, organizaciones sin fines de lucro y defensores de la reinserción se sientan juntos, y donde el bienestar comunitario es cada vez más parte de la conversación empresarial.

LO DESTACADO DE SEPTIEMBRE Y OCTUBRE 12 SEPT

1 OCT

Empty Bowls — Misión de Rescate de Visalia

Construyendo Equipos Más Fuertes: Salud Mental, Trabajo en Equipo y Moral

19 SEPT

1 OCT

Festival Bites, Brews & Arts

Recarga de Liderazgo — Red de Egresados de Leadership Visalia

25 SEPT

17 OCT

Oktoberfest y Desayuno de United Way

Taste the Arts

POR QUÉ UNIRSE A LA MESA 1

Un Lugar en la Mesa

2

Más de 100 eventos comunitarios y empresariales al año para crear relaciones reales.

3

Red de Colegas

Conexión con líderes que toman decisiones a través de programas cívicos y de defensa.

4

Más de 650 negocios y organizaciones miembro con las mismas preguntas que tú.

Acceso Directo

Visibilidad Creciente Inauguraciones, mixers y reconocimientos que muestran tu misión a nuevas personas.

Porque cuando los negocios y el bienestar comunitario crecen juntos, todos respiramos un poco mejor. visaliachamber.org • 220 S Mooney Blvd, STE B, Visalia, CA 93291 • (559) 734-5876 Presentado en la revista Breathe YOU Matter


F O D N U O S CHECK-IN

6:30 P.M.

RECOVERY SEPTEMBER 24

DON'T MISS OUT ON OUR 5TH ANNUAL CONCERT. COME AND EXPERIENCE ORIGINAL SONGS INSPIRED BY INDIVIDUALS FROM THE RECOVERY COMMUNITY.

SHOW STARTS AT 7 P.M. SAN BERNARDINO VALLEY COLLEGE AUDITORIUM 701 S. MOUNT VERNON AVENUE, SAN BERNARDINO

Scan the QR code to register or call (909) 658-1015.


REC VERY

HAPPENS Saturday, September 12 FOOD

GAMES

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Miller Park Amphitheater

17002 Arrow Blvd, Fontana

FAMILY FUN

free entry

2-6 P.M.

For more information:

visit www.sbcounty.gov/dbh or call (909) 658-1015


FAITH & PURPOSE

Turning Perseverance Into Purpose From overcoming life's hardest storms to creating lasting impact for others, Shea Tamez is building a legacy rooted in faith, resilience, and purpose. By BYM Editorial Staff

Some people are defined by what they have been through. Others choose to be defined by what they do with it. Shea Tamez belongs to the second group.

PHOTO PLACEHOLDER

Replace with a photo of Shea Tamez — drag your image over this box in Canva

An entrepreneur, published author, nonprofit leader, community advocate, and purpose-driven visionary, Shea has transformed years of adversity into a mission to help others recognize their worth, discover their purpose, and believe that their circumstances do not have to determine their future. Her journey has not been easy — and that is precisely what makes her story so powerful.

From Perseverance to Power

Shea Tamez, founder of Impact Visionary Network and author of "Bigger the Storm, Brighter the Rainbow." HER PHILOSOPHY “My philosophy is "Perseverance

B e cPURPOSE.” omes Power."

Rather than allowing difficult seasons to define her, Shea has used them as opportunities for growth, testimony, and transformation. Her story is one of learning how to surrender what she could not control, remain faithful through uncertainty, and continue moving forward even when the path was unclear. Her faith has remained at the center of that journey. For Shea, faith isn't simply something she talks about — it is the foundation from which she builds. That mindset has shaped both her personal life and her professional vision. Today, she is passionate about helping others understand that their greatest struggles can become part of their greatest purpose.

Building Impact Beyond Herself Shea's entrepreneurial journey has evolved into something much bigger than building a business. Through Impact Visionary Network, she is focused on creating lasting impact through purpose-driven results — connecting people, businesses, community organizations, and resources in ways that produce measurable change. As a leader within the nonprofit space, Shea has also dedicated significant energy toward supporting children and families who need someone willing to stand in the gap.

BREATHE YOU MATTER · CALIFORNIA'S PEER SUPPORT PUBLICATION


FAITH & PURPOSE

A Voice for Children Through Inspiration Station USA, Shea has championed initiatives designed to bring hope, dignity, resources, and opportunity to families and children facing difficult circumstances. One initiative especially close to her heart is Diamonds in the Rough, which focuses on helping foster children during some of the most uncertain transitions of their young lives. The concept is simple but profound: remind children that their circumstances do not diminish their value. Shea believes every child deserves to feel seen, valued, safe, and worthy of hope — a belief that has translated into action, including efforts that have helped hundreds of families. Another important part of Shea's work is her commitment to bringing awareness and resources into schools and communities. Through fundraising and community partnerships supporting programs such as DARE, Shea has worked to help expand access to education surrounding mental health, suicide prevention, online safety, and overdose awareness. Her approach is different from simply asking people to give — she believes fundraising should create connection, giving businesses and community organizations a seat at the table so donors can see the tangible difference their support makes. For Shea, the goal isn't simply to raise money. The goal is to raise hope.

An Author Who Turned Her Story Into a Message Shea's desire to encourage others eventually became a published book, Bigger the Storm, Brighter the Rainbow. The title reflects the heart of her message: storms may be painful, but they do not last forever. The rainbow represents what can emerge on the other side — growth, hope, restoration, and a renewed understanding of who you are. She has built a community around one idea: you don't have to have everything figured out to keep moving forward. Sometimes, you simply have to take the next step.

A Kingdom Entrepreneur, Looking Ahead For Shea, entrepreneurship is not about building an empire for herself — it is about building a legacy that points people back to God. She wants the businesses she builds, the people she mentors, the nonprofit initiatives she supports, and the content she creates to ultimately serve a greater purpose. Her definition of success isn't limited to revenue or recognition; it's knowing that someone else's life is better because she chose to show up. Shea is entering a new chapter that combines entrepreneurship, nonprofit leadership, community impact, speaking, writing, mentorship, and ministry — including plans for conferences and events centered on motivation, faith, personal growth, and transformation.

BREATHE YOU MATTER · CALIFORNIA'S PEER SUPPORT PUBLICATION

"I prayed. I surrendered. I remained obedient." SHEA TAMEZ

"Success is knowing that someone else's life is better because she chose to show up." ON HER DEFINITION OF SUCCESS

GET INVOLVED • Impact Visionary Network — purpose-driven business & community partnerships • Inspiration Station USA — nonprofit initiatives for children & families • Diamonds in the Rough — support for foster youth in transition • Bigger the Storm, Brighter the Rainbow — available wherever books are sold

The storms may shape you. They don't have to destroy you. Shea is still building. Still believing. Still becoming.


BYM COMMUNITY VOICES • FALL ISSUE

Season of You A Cozy, Whole-Person Kind of Fall

READER COLUMN

Falling for Yourself Let’s be honest: fall doesn’t ask permission before it shows up. One day it’s still summer, and the next you’re digging out a hoodie and wondering where the year went. So let’s borrow that same energy — for you. This season isn’t about fixing yourself. It’s about noticing yourself — the body that carried you through hard months, the mind still learning new ways to cope, the spirit that keeps choosing to try again, even on the tired days. Whole-person care isn’t a five-step routine. Sometimes it’s a warm drink and five quiet minutes. Sometimes it’s finally making that appointment. Sometimes it’s just laughing with your people until your stomach hurts. However it shows up for you this month — cozy, messy, joyful, slow — it counts. This is your season. Let’s fall into it together. — The BYM Community

OCTOBER SELF-CARE CALENDAR One small act of care, every day this month. SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU 1

Write 3 gratitudes

4

Try a new tea

11

Stretch 10 minutes

18

Text a peer check-in

25

Try the word search → pg.2

5

Declutter one space

12

Unplug an hour

19

Try the playlist → pg.2

26

Name a fear, release it

| BYM Media — Breathe YOU Matter

6

Journal a win

13

Letter to future you

20

Take 5 deep breaths

27

Celebrate a small win

7

Rest, no guilt

14

Light a candle, breathe

21

Wear your coziest sweater

28

Write your own peer quote

8

Watch the sunset

15

Share a peer quote

22

Reflect how far you've come

29

Rake leaves, move your body

FRI 2

Slow walk outside

9

Say no to one thing

16

Take a fall drive

23

Random act of kindness

30

Set a Nov. intention

SAT 3

Call someone who lifts you

10

Cook comfort food

17

Organize your toolkit

24

Quiet morning time

31

Practice self-compassion


Listen, Play, Reflect ♪ AUTUMN RESET PLAYLIST

WORD SEARCH

1. Sunday Morning — Maroon 5

Y

Z

E

F

E

P

T

R

X

D

R

B

K

2. Landslide — Fleetwood Mac

J

O

U

R

N

E

Y

E

V

Q

Q

R

P

3. Here Comes the Sun — The Beatles

P

B

Z

Y

D

R

B

N

H

H

G

I

B

4. Brave — Sara Bareilles

E

A

Y

D

Q

O

R

E

T

A

Y

C

O

5. Rise Up — Andra Day

A

L

K

T

Q

T

Q

W

G

W

I

O

Q

6. Fight Song — Rachel Platten

C

A

R

Z

P

Y

O

A

Q

H

W

Q

I

7. Better Days — OneRepublic

E

N

R

G

Z

R

O

L

E

N

D

M

O

K

C

C

O

G

H

A

R

V

E

S

T

V

H

E

C

R

E

S

I

L

I

E

N

C

E

H

G

R

A

T

I

T

U

D

E

N

C

G

O

C

O

M

M

U

N

I

T

Y

V

J

Z

P

D

W

A

R

M

T

H

Y

E

W

U

V

E

L

E

I

E

O

H

X

D

M

P

F

V

8. Autumn Leaves — Eva Cassidy 9. Unwritten — Natasha Bedingfield 10. Home — Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros 11. I Lived — OneRepublic 12. You Say — Lauren Daigle

Find: GRATITUDE · RESILIENCE · COMMUNITY · HARVEST · BALANCE · RENEWAL · JOURNEY · GROWTH · WARMTH · PEACE · COZY · HOPE

PEER WISDOM

Words from our community “Recovery isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about becoming who you were before the world told you to hide.”

“I used to think asking for help was weak. Now I know it’s the strongest thing I’ve ever done.”

“Every season I survive is proof I can survive the next one too.”

“Some days self-care is a bubble bath. Some days it’s just brushing your teeth. Both count.”

Anonymous, Tulare County

Anonymous, Riverside County

Anonymous, BYM Reader

| BYM Media — Breathe YOU Matter

Anonymous, BYM Community


VOCES DE LA COMUNIDAD BYM • EDICIÓN DE OTOÑO

Tu Temporada Un Otoño Acogedor Para Todo Tu Ser

COLUMNA DEL LECTOR

El Otoño Te Sienta Bien Seamos honestos: el otoño no pide permiso antes de llegar. Un día todavía es verano, y al siguiente ya andas buscando tu sudadera y preguntándote a dónde se fue el año. Así que vamos a tomar prestada esa misma energía — para ti. Esta temporada no se trata de arreglarte. Se trata de notarte — el cuerpo que te ha cargado a través de meses difíciles, la mente que sigue aprendiendo nuevas formas de sobrellevar las cosas, el espíritu que sigue eligiendo intentarlo de nuevo, incluso en los días de cansancio. El cuidado integral no es una rutina de cinco pasos. A veces es una bebida calientita y cinco minutos de silencio. A veces es por fin hacer esa cita. A veces es simplemente reírte con tu gente hasta que te duela el estómago. Como sea que se vea para ti este mes — acogedor, desordenado, alegre, lento — cuenta. Esta es tu temporada. Vamos a caer en ella juntos. — La Comunidad BYM

CALENDARIO DE AUTOCUIDADO DE OCTUBRE Un pequeño acto de cuidado, cada día de este mes. DOM

LUN

MAR

MIÉ

JUE 1

Escribe 3 gratitudes

4

Prueba un té nuevo

11

5

Ordena un espacio

Anota un logro

Descansa sin culpa

Observa el atardecer

Llama a quien te anima

10

Di no a algo

Cocina algo reconfortante

Enciende una vela, respira

Comparte una frase

Da un paseo en auto

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

Prueba la sopa → pág.2

Nombra un miedo, suéltalo

| BYM Media — Breathe YOU Matter

Celebra un pequeño logro

Usa tu suéter favorito

Escribe tu propia frase

15

9

3

Escríbete una carta

Respira profundo 5 veces

14

8

Camina despacio afuera

Desconéctate una hora

Prueba la lista → pág.2

13

7

2

SÁB

Estírate 10 minutos

Escribe a un par

12

6

VIE

Piensa cuánto has avanzado

Rastrilla hojas, muévete

Haz un acto de bondad

Fija una intención de nov.

Organiza tu red de apoyo

Tiempo de silencio matutino

Practica la autocompasión


Escucha, Juega, Reflexiona ♪ LISTA DE OTOÑO: NUEVO COMIENZO

SOPA DE LETRAS

1. Color Esperanza — Diego Torres

E

C

V

A

N

O

Q

E

Q

Z

N

N

V

2. Resistiré — Duo Dinámico

S

U

R

H

C

E

Q

Q

A

R

B

A

K

3. Gracias a la Vida — Mercedes Sosa

P

P

D

E

R

O

Q

P

N

K

I

R

I

4. Todo Cambia — Mercedes Sosa

E

E

N

D

C

J

G

D

A

C

I

E

H

5. La Vida Es Un Carnaval — Celia Cruz

R

J

Q

C

P

I

U

E

N

V

F

N

C

6. Vivir Mi Vida — Marc Anthony

A

C

C

U

O

T

M

E

D

K

K

O

A

7. Eres Tú — Mocedades

N

O

X

A

I

S

I

I

U

O

L

V

L

Z

O

F

T

M

L

E

W

E

N

R

A

I

A

L

A

W

I

I

I

C

P

N

H

C

D

Z

R

U

S

Q

F

N

B

H

T

T

I

E

10. Cielito Lindo — Vicente Fernández

G

H

E

X

T

P

T

O

R

A

C

O

Z

11. Que Canten Los Niños — José Luis Perales

M

R

F

C

L

E

Z

O

Y

I

S

N

J

12. Alma Llanera — Tradicional

C

O

M

U

N

I

D

A

D

R

O

P

M

8. Ojalá Que Llueva Café — Juan Luis Guerra 9. Amigos Para Siempre — Sarah Brightman & José Carreras

Busca: RESILIENCIA · CRECIMIENTO · COMUNIDAD · EQUILIBRIO · RENOVACION · ESPERANZA · GRATITUD · COSECHA · ACOGEDOR · CALIDEZ · CAMINO · PAZ

SABIDURÍA COMUNITARIA

Palabras de nuestra comunidad “La recuperación no se trata de convertirte en alguien nuevo. Se trata de volver a ser quien eras antes de que el mundo te dijera que te escondieras.”

“Antes pensaba que pedir ayuda era una debilidad. Ahora sé que es lo más fuerte que he hecho.” Anónimo, Condado de Tulare

Anónimo, Condado de Riverside

“Cada temporada que sobrevivo es prueba de que puedo sobrevivir la siguiente.” Anónimo, Lector de BYM

“Algunos días el autocuidado es un baño de burbujas. Otros días es solo lavarte los dientes. Ambos cuentan.” Anónimo, Comunidad BYM

| BYM Media — Breathe YOU Matter


“IT’S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY. REMEMBER, YOU’RE NOT ALONE - SOMEONE IS ALWAYS HERE TO LISTEN.”


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
2026 BYM Suicide Prevention Month by BreatheYouMatter - Issuu