Support Saves Lives
In 2023, more than 5.3 million U.S. teens aged 12–17 were diagnosed with a mental or behavioral health condition—yet many still struggle to access support. Nearly half turn only to peers when they’re in distress, often missing the guidance and early intervention that could make a difference.
CARES Advocacy provides inclusive, interactive Mental Health First Aid training that empowers individuals, equips families, and supports organizations to recognize challenges, respond with care, and create healthier, more supportive communities.
Mental health challenges among individuals are rising and often go unaddressed.
Families can struggle to support youth without guidance, increasing stress at home.
Adults are often dealing with their own mental health challenges while supporting children or family members, which can reduce focus, productivity, and overall well-being at home and work.
How We Help
CARES Advocacy teaches how to recognize when someone may be struggling, whether a teen, family member, or colleague; how to offer safe, stigma-free support; and how to know when it’s time to involve a trusted adult, professional, or organizational resource.
Our Programs
For Teens & Schools
Teen Mental Health First Aid:
Practical skills to support peers and build resilience in school communities.
Middle School
Mental Health Education:
Early awareness and tools to help younger students navigate challenges safely.
For Parents & Families
Parent Education Events:
Guidance for recognizing warning signs, starting conversations, and supporting youth at home.
For Companies & Organizations
Workplace & Family
Mental Health Training:
Tools for organizations to support employees, address their own challenges, and foster healthier, more productive communities.
Why CARES Advocacy is Different
Inclusive Curriculum:
Addresses diverse populations and high-risk groups
Interactive Approach:
Real conversations and collaborative learning, not just videos or quizzes
Founded On Lived Experience:
Erin Langs, Certified Mental Health Advocate, developed the program based on personal and professional experience
Founder's Message
“As a parent, coach, and classroom instructor, I’ve seen firsthand how mental health challenges affect young people and families. If one student is saved from suicide because of this education, the effort is worth it. CARES Advocacy exists to save lives and give people tools they can use at school, at work, and at home — ultimately creating stronger, healthier communities.”
— Erin Langs, Founder of CARES Advocacy
About Erin Langs
Erin began her journey into wellness as an undergraduate at UC San Diego’s Revelle College, where she earned a degree in Psychology with a focus on autism. After a successful career in hotel sales and marketing while raising two children, a decade-long personal health crisis and the global pandemic brought her back to her passion for community health and wellbeing.
In 2013, a Stage 4 cancer diagnosis deeply affected Erin’s family, leaving her two young sons to navigate the challenges of trauma. Through that experience—and later witnessing the pandemic’s emotional toll on socially isolated students—CARES Advocacy was born. Erin’s mission is to support students, educators, and organizations that value mental health, emotional resilience, and family wellbeing through accessible education and advocacy.
Today, Erin lives in San Diego with her husband, and her now–young adult sons visit often. When she’s not leading a class or facilitating professional development workshops, you can find her playing tennis, padel, or pickleball, walking along the beach, or enjoying live music whenever possible.
About Erin Langs
Bring Mental Health First Aid to Your Community Today
Contact us for more information or to request a program for your school, family, or organization
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