CBS’S ‘THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS’ EXPLORES MENTAL HEALTH STRUGGLES & RELEASES A MENTAL HEALTH PSA

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS, CBS’ longest-running scripted series, issues a Public Safety Announcement (PSA) to encourage mental health support for viewers, connected to a powerful and important storyline featuring central character Chelsea Lawson (played by Melissa Claire Egan) as she grapples with emotional struggles that have her on a path to possible self-harm. 

About the storyline: After a series of setbacks – career disappointments, the death of a man she’d just formed a friendship with, and rejection by the teenage son she gave up for adoption – Chelsea is struggling with depression and thoughts of suicide. Replaying in her head what she perceives as harsh and hurtful comments from those closest to her, she goes to the roof and contemplates taking harmful action as a means to make the pain go away. Luckily, Billy (Jason Thompson) finds her, lets her know he’s there for her, and stops her from taking her life. He reaches out to Sharon (Sharon Case) (a friend and therapist), and together they make sure Chelsea gets to a facility where she can receive the help she needs.  

Across two versions of the PSA, airing on October 31 and November 1, 2022, Egan is joined by Thompson and Case, encouraging anyone in need or in support of someone in need to reach out to 988 for free, confidential support to speak with trained counselors, 24/7, or to visit save.org. 

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS kicked off its 50th season and returned Friday, September 30 as CBS’ longest-running scripted series. Debuting a new logo in honor of the milestone, Y&R will celebrate its five decades of romance and rivalry all season, including its March 26 broadcast anniversary, building off classic storylines with the return appearances of fan favorites and more intrigue and family drama for the iconic characters.

For more information and photos, please visit: Paramount Press Express | CBS Entertainment | The Young and the Restless.