Seham Saba, Head of Mental Health Services at the Riverside Latino Commission, joins host Will Dean to discuss the changing mental health needs of families and youth across the Coachella Valley. Saba explains why culturally responsive, bilingual care builds trust and improves access to treatment, while examining rising anxiety, depression, isolation, immigration-related fears, social media pressures, substance use, and family trauma. She shares warning signs parents should recognize and emphasizes seeking support before challenges become crises. The conversation also explores the need to grow and retain a local behavioral health workforce by introducing young people to mental health careers. Saba also previews her participation in the 2026 Healthy Desert Healthy You Summit and its focus on prevention and community-based youth support systems.

Takeaways:

• Culturally responsive care strengthens trust and access.
• Early intervention can prevent mental health crises.
• Immigration fears increase anxiety and social isolation.
• Social media challenges youth self-esteem and identity.
• Parents should watch for unusual behavioral changes.
• Same-day mental health support can make differences.
• Local talent can strengthen behavioral health workforce.
• Open conversations help reduce mental health stigma.

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