Bridging youth mental health research and real-world solutions
Founded in 2014 and based in Carmel, California, AIM Youth Mental Health works at the intersection of scientific research and youth-led innovation. AIM does not provide clinical treatment — it focuses on prevention, education, peer support, and strengthening connections to appropriate mental health resources. Key programmes include the AIM Ideas Lab (youth participatory action research across 37 schools), Youth Mental Health First Aid training for adults, and funded clinical research into anxiety, suicide prevention, and eating disorders. AIM partners with schools and community organisations in California, Arizona, and Texas, with an intentional focus on under-resourced, rural, and diverse communities. Rated 4/4 stars by Charity Navigator.
AIM Youth Mental Health bridges the gap between youth mental health research and access to care by finding, funding, and implementing evidence-based treatments and empowering youth to discover their own mental health solutions.
Training and certifying parents, teachers, coaches, and staff to recognise and respond to mental health challenges in young people. 3,000 adults trained across 63 organisations.
Youth-led research programme where high school students design and lead projects that improve youth mental health. Students apply competitively and work with AIM mentors.
Middle and high school students use creativity to raise awareness about youth mental health, reduce stigma, and inspire hope through artwork and ad designs.
Engages youth in mental health advocacy and community leadership. 44 youth participated in the revamped 2024 programme.