Youth Services

What can I expect if I come to Youth Services?

Youth Services (YS) is focused on serving "youth." When you come to YS you can expect to be treated with respect. YS provides crisis counseling for youth and their families. We will focus on giving you the services you need or referring you to the appropriate agency to meet your needs.

How can I get help for drug and alcohol use?

1. Schedule a substance abuse evaluation by calling 801 269-7519.

Have your Social Security number and schedule when calling.

It is best if a parent can accompany you.

2. Receive a recommendation for treatment based on your evaluation.

3. Begin participating in the designated program.

How can I help a friend who is using drugs?

Catch them when they are sober and sick and vulnerable.
Bring two or three others with you.
Expect a personal attack or an attempt at justification.
Stick to talking about their destructive behavior.
They'll turn the conversation away to other things. Bring it back to them.
Don't diagnose.
Expect denial. Denial is a symptom of the disease. They can't psychologically afford to see what they are doing.
Show you care. Tell them your motive is because you care.
Make sure you know where to get help. Have several options ready.
Take them to the place for help. Chances are they'll never make it alone.

What should I do if someone I know says they are going to commit suicide?

Take them seriously. Suicide is no joking matter.
Offer help and listen. Encourage your friend to talk about their feelings.
Listen. Don't lecture.
Trust your instincts. If it seems that the situation is serious seek prompt help.
Break a confidence if necessary to save a life.
Seek professional help from an expert who has experience in helping depressed teens.
Alert adults in the teen's life--family, friends, and teachers.

What are the laws about sexual activity among teens?

In Utah it is illegal to have sex as a teenager if you are not married. A youth 13 years or younger having sex must be reported to the Utah State Division of Family Services.

Can a child be emancipated in Utah?

No. Emancipation happens only through marriage or a transfer of custody. The Utah State Division of Family Services can grant Independent Living at the age of 17 ½ years.

What do I do if I don't want to live at home anymore?

If you are having trouble at home you can call the YS at 801 269-7500. We will offer you the chance to work with a trained counselor.

What is the Christmas Box House?

Salt Lake County Children's Shelter at the Christmas Box House is a partnership with Salt Lake County, Christmas Box International, Utah State Division of Child and Family Services, and the local community seeking to develop and implement comprehensive services which reflect best practices of child welfare to abused and neglected children who have been removed from their family environment.

What services are provided at the Christmas Box House?

Intake and assessment services to children 0 to 18. Special residential services are available for children ages 0 to 12 who have been removed from their home due to abuse, neglect, abandonment, or a foster care placement failure.
A residential haven for up to 34 children including a crisis nursery for four infants.
Open year-round 365 days a year, 24-hours-a-day.
A warm, nurturing environment for enhancement of well-being and self-esteem.
A best practice model of assessment and treatment services including a broad array of intervention.