![](https://sites.utexas.edu/tchatt/files/2024/05/Resources-hero-image-scaled.jpg)
Youth Aware of Mental Health
![](https://sites.utexas.edu/tchatt/files/2024/07/tcmhcc-tchatt-yam-logo-color-07252024-1024x172.png)
What is YAM?
Youth Aware of Mental Health, also known as YAM, is a school-based program for young people in eighth through 12th grades in which they learn about and explore the topic of mental health. YAM is evidence-based and takes place in classrooms around the world. In YAM sessions, students actively engage with the topic of mental health through role-playing and student-led discussions.
Interested in learning more about YAM?
Click below to see more program information and frequently asked questions.
![](https://sites.utexas.edu/tchatt/files/2023/04/YAM-Infograph-1024x631.png)
![](https://sites.utexas.edu/tchatt/files/2022/11/rise-logo.png)
DID YOU KNOW?
YAM has shown to reduce new cases of suicide attempts and severe suicidal ideation by approximately 50%. It has also shown to reduce new cases of depression by around 30% among children who participated in the program.
Who we serve
Dell Medical School’s YAM program operates within the 13 counties in its catchment area:
Bastrop
Blanco
Burnet
Caldwell
Coryell
Fayette
Hamilton
Hays
Lampasas
Lee
Mills
Travis
Williamson
![](https://sites.utexas.edu/tchatt/files/2023/08/TCHATT-Map-New.png)
Dell Medical School YAM leadership
![](https://sites.utexas.edu/tchatt/files/2024/06/Marla-Bryd.png)
Marla Byrd
YAM Senior Administrative Program Coordinator
![](https://sites.utexas.edu/tchatt/files/2023/01/YAM-Team-01-1024x1024.png)
Valarie Gold
Lead Program Coordinator
Informational videos
Learn more about YAM here.
Get in touch
Contact us at 512-232-0041 or email YAM@austin.utexas.edu.
If you or someone else is experiencing a mental health emergency, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255).
To find help for you or your family, visit MentalHealthTx.org.