Student Support

APA Foundation Notice. Talk. Act. at School

Our Notice. Talk. Act.® at School approach helps staff build relationships, Notice when a student might be showing signs of mental health and other distress, how to Talk to them to show care and concern, and Act when appropriate to connect the student to support services.

APA Foundation Notice. Talk. Act. at School Briefing

Notice. Talk. Act.® at School aims to use the unique position of teachers and educational staff to monitor and interact with middle school, junior high, and high school adolescents on a daily basis. Early referral for treatment is key in preventing or lessening maladaptive outcomes, and evidence-based reviews support the implementation of school-based programs for altering negative trajectories and giving youth the greatest chance possible for a healthy future. This document gives an overview of our findings in schools.

APA Foundation What Do Disruptive Behaviors Indicate?

This fact sheet provides community members with an overview of how schools tend to approach disruptive behaviors, the harmful impacts of zero tolerance polices, and a potential solution in how schools can view disruptive behaviors as a sign for support not discipline.

Active Minds Chapters

Active Minds chapters are located at high schools and colleges nationwide and also internationally. Each year, more than 15,000 students join an Active Minds chapter to serve as passionate advocates, stigma fighters, and educators for mental health.

Active Minds Speakers

Active Minds Speakers are professional storytellers and trainers, and provide engaging, encouraging, and safe mental health education. More than one million people have heard our Speaker’s stories of hope since 2009.

Anxiety & OCD in the Classroom

The IOCDF online resource center for school personnel, students, and their families includes information about anxiety and OCD in the school setting, school accommodations, tools for teachers, and educational materials.

Back to School Guide

This guide will equip educators with the tools to bring the Know the Signs message into their schools by providing learning activities that strive to build a community of Upstanders. This guide contains lesson plans and activities for grades K-12 that align with the Know the Signs programs of Start With Hello and Say Something. Together these programs educate and encourage students to be Upstanders, build relationships with Trusted Adults, reach out to include and help others, and create a sense of belonging for all.

Back to School Wellness Guide

NAMI released a one-page Back to School Wellness Guide for educators to prepare them for what their students may have experienced over the last year, how to support them, and how to take care of themselves, too.

Back-to-School Mental Health Roadmap

Is your child experiencing back to school stress? In this guide for parents, we share tips for managing mental health concerns as your child transitions back into the school year.

Back-to-School Resource Hub

Whether you’re an educator, parent, caregiver, student, or just wants to help keep kids safe, it starts with a commitment to work together. These essential resources will help you build stronger relationships, strengthen an Upstander culture, and uplift others to prevent violence in schools, homes, and communities.

Bring Change to Mind's High School Program

Bring Change to Mind’s High School Program gives teens a platform to share their voices and raise awareness around mental health. Their goal is to empower students to educate one another, and their communities, and to create a culture of peer support within their schools.

Caring for Kids After a School Shooting

Listen well, and help them help each other

Child Welfare Resources

NAMI’s first-ever Child Welfare Resources were created to support youth in creating and maintaining healthy relationships.

Cyberbullying Resources for Parents and Caregivers

The Jed Foundation has launched cyberbullying resources for parents and caregivers, part of the Choose Kindness Project. These resources include decision trees to guide adults on addressing cyberbullying situations, engaging videos that promote kindness and empathy, and a comprehensive Parents Guide for raising kind children. The initiative aims to equip adults with tools to foster emotional well-being and resilience in youth.

Demystifying the Digital Dilemma

While scrolling social media is supposed to be rewarding, often, it can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or just plain “blah.” Lead students through three stories of teens who took ownership of their social media use and learned to have a healthier, more engaged social life away from the algorithm.

Kickstart conversations in the classroom with the help of a companion educator guide, featuring hands-on activities to engage students before, during, and after watching.

Empower the Student Voice on Campus

Active Minds offers recommendations for involving students in mental health policy decisions and programs that affect them, to create stronger campus communities.

Equity in Mental Health Framework

The Equity in Mental Health Framework provides colleges and universities with ten recommendations and implementation strategies to help inform and strengthen their mental health support and programs for students of color. Both the Framework and Toolkit were created in partnership by The Steve Fund and The Jed Foundation (JED).

Equity in Mental Health Pilot Project Report

The Equity in Mental Health Framework (EMHF) was designed to address the significant inequities in mental health and the disparities faced by students of color. It is the result of a partnership between The Steve Fund and JED focused on addressing mental health and emotional well-being needs among college and university students of color. To start this process, The Steve Fund and JED set out to complete a thorough review of the current mental health and education literature. To help achieve this goal, this collaborative effort commissioned the McLean Hospital College Mental Health Program to review the literature describing the mental health challenges facing college students of color as well as any evidence-based programs supporting their mental health and well-being. The Steve Fund and The Jed Foundation partnered to begin a pilot implementation of the Equity in Mental Health Framework with a cohort of 18 colleges and universities around the U.S.

Equity in Mental Health Pilot Project Report

The Equity in Mental Health Framework (EMHF) was designed to address the significant inequities in mental health and the disparities faced by students of color. It is the result of a partnership between The Steve Fund and JED focused on addressing mental health and emotional well-being needs among college and university students of color. To start this process, The Steve Fund and JED set out to complete a thorough review of the current mental health and education literature. To help achieve this goal, this collaborative effort commissioned the McLean Hospital College Mental Health Program to review the literature describing the mental health challenges facing college students of color as well as any evidence-based programs supporting their mental health and well-being. The Steve Fund and The Jed Foundation partnered to begin a pilot implementation of the Equity in Mental Health Framework with a cohort of 18 colleges and universities around the U.S.

Faculty Guide: Creating a Culture of Caring

Practical approaches for college and university faculty to support student wellbeing and mental health.

Family Resources Center

Find information to help you support children who are struggling with mental health, behavior or learning challenges.

Fountain House: College Re-entry

This resource from Fountain House is a program designed to help adults who withdrew from their studies due to mental health challenges reach their college and education goals. This webpage includes a blog with different student stories about experiencing college re-entry. Additionally, the webpage includes information about the college re-entry program, a 14-week curriculum that helps a small group of students regain academic skills and restore social community.

Going Back to School After a Tragedy

When tragedy strikes a school community, the prospect of sending kids back to school can be daunting. But it’s an important milestone, because it is essential that children get back into ordinary routines after hearing disturbing and frightening news. Children find comfort in the familiar, and going back to school and any after-school activities helps build healthy, resilient children. Here are some tips for helping kids worried about going back.

Half of US

Half of Us a is program of The Jed Foundation that helps young people feel less alone and encourages them to reach out for help. Here you can find information on mental health, learn how to help a friend, and more.

Helping Children Cope With Frightening News

What parents can do to aid scared kids in processing grief and fear in a healthy way.

How to Deal with Bullying

A guide to understanding bullying and its signs, types, and effects, as well as how to get help if you’re being bullied.

How to Handle School and Stress Anxiety

The TL;DR on school stress and anxiety, how to deal with bullies, and coping mechanisms for getting through the day (and night).

How to Practice Self-Care

Resources and guides on helping kids practice self-care. Resource guides include: “Why You Should Keep Self-Care Top of Mind”, “How to Help Your Kids Practice Mindfulness”, “Downloadable Self-Care Activities and Calming Tools”, “The Benefits of Exercise”, “Day Time Break Resources”, and “Self-Care for Parents of Children With Mental Health Needs”.

How to Prepare Kids for Back to School

Multiple guides on helping children with going back to school. Resource guides include: “Back-to-School Mental Health Checklist”, “Back-to-School Conversation Starters”, “Preparing for a New School Year When Last Year Didn’t Go Well”, “Helping Children Minimize Back-to-School Anxiety”, “IEPS, 504 Plans, and FBAs Explained”, and “6 Tips for Students in the Age of Online Learning”.

How to Talk to Kids About Drugs

Guides on how to talk to kids about different drugs and drug habits. Resource guides include: “How Teens Can Quit Smoking”, “JUULing: What Parents Need to Know” and “Signs Your Teen May be Using Drugs and Alcohol”.

MHA Back to School Toolkit

MHA’s Back to School Toolkit – developed each year and released in mid-August in anticipation of the start of the new school year – provides free resources, tools, tips, and information for parents, teachers, and youth on early identification themes and Before Stage 4 messaging.

MHC's College Student Mental Health Toolkit

The MHC College Student Mental Health Toolkit is designed to equip college students with the resources, services, and support needed to thrive as they transition into the beginning of adult life. Inside this toolkit, you will find key background information on college students’ mental health as it stands in 2023. You will also find tips for students on maintaining their mental health and well-being and advice for fostering mental health awareness on every college campus. Our aim is to provide students with digestible, accessible information to support their mental health journey and overall college experience.

Mental Health School Supplies

Parents, students, and educators are stretched thin. Especially this school year, you’re juggling an overload of responsibilities while launching back into a new version of in-person learning. Back-to-school is stressful any year. This year? It could spark a special kind of anxiety-inducing spiral. As students, caregivers, and educators, it’s essential to keep mental health at the forefront of your back-to-school planning. In a world of managing to-do lists, relationships, and post-COVID stress, Crisis Text Line is here to help you keep your mental health top of mind.

Minds United: Navigating Mental Wellness Together

“Minds United” is a video series created by Robell Ephrem, a member of the Creative Visions Mental Health Youth Advisory Committee. The series was created to dive into the world of mental health and help raise awareness, challenge stigma, and encourage self-care.

On Our Sleeves Mooderators

The Mooderators Resource guide includes a downloadable guidebook for children, parents, and teachers to understand and work through difficult emotions. Within the guidebook, there are video resources, written resources, and discussion guides.

On Our Sleeves: How to Deal with Stress

Multiple guides on helping children navigate different types of stress. Resource guides include: “Stress Buster Bingo”, “Toxic Stress Response in Kids”, “Physical Symptoms of Stress in Kids”, “3 Ways to Deal with Pressure”, and “Resiliency: How it Can Help Kids Combat Stress”.

Prioritizing Student Mental Health During COVID-19

Active Minds provides twelve short and long-term recommendations to support college and university leadership with prioritizing mental health and helping the campus community heal and recover from the impact of COVID-19 and national civil unrest.

Quick Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorder

A Quick Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorder in CMI’s Family Resource Center. Also available for download.

Recommendations for Leave of Absence

Active Minds suggests policies for mental health-related leave of absence and return from absence policies at higher education institutions that are lawful, flexible, easy to understand, and on par with leave of absence policies for medical/physical health reasons.

Recommendations to Shape Mental Health on Campus

This report by Active Minds explains the impact of a peer-to-peer approach, provides examples of student-led strategies that are improving mental health outcomes on campuses nationwide, and gives recommendations for faculty, staff, administrators, and students regarding how to replicate this success on their own campuses.

School Break Resources

These School Break Resources give helpful suggestions on how to keep structure at home when students have breaks from the classroom. The resources include fun activities and suggestions for traveling.

Set to Go

Set to Go is a program from The Jed Foundation that guides students, families and high school educators through the social, emotional and mental health challenges related to the transition out of high school to college and adulthood.

This resource links to multiple guides about navigating social media and staying safe online. Guides include “Kids and Social Media”, “Talking to Kids About Social Media”, “Using Social Media Wisely”, “Kids Privacy and Social Media”, “How to Make a Family Social Media Plan”, “Does Your Child Have a Social Media Problem”, and “How Does Social Media Impact Kids With Mental Disorders?”.

Supporting Your Teen's Mental Health

Many teens struggle with their mental health and aren’t sure where to turn for help. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or another trusted adult in a teen’s life, we’re here to help you navigate teens’ difficult emotions and give them the support they need.

The "Not Alone" Initiative by Inspiring Children Foundation

The “Not Alone” initiative by Inspiring Children Foundation offers resources and support for families and young children facing emotional challenges. It focuses on promoting mental health and resilience through various programs and activities. The foundation aims to transform the lives of at-risk youth by providing holistic approaches to physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

The Equity in Mental Health Framework

The Equity in Mental Health Framework provides colleges and universities with ten recommendations and implementation strategies to help inform and strengthen their mental health support and programs for students of color. Both the Framework and Toolkit were created in partnership by The Steve Fund and The Jed Foundation (JED).

The Jed Foundation's Mental Health Resource Center

The Jed Foundation’s Mental Health Resource Center provides essential information about common emotional health issues and shows teens and young adults how they can support one another, overcome challenges and make a successful transition to adulthood.

Warning Signs Graphic

In 4 out of 5 school shootings, at least one other person had knowledge of the attacker’s plan but failed to report it. These 10 critical warning signs of violence have helped thousands of students know when to “say something” to a Trusted Adult to get help. Download the graphic and share.

What to Do While You Wait for Mental Health Services

You decided to seek mental health therapy for your child, but now you may be waiting for weeks or even months before the first appointment. This time can be truly stressful and, as a caregiver, you may feel powerless. However, there are some things you can start doing now to help your child and your family.

What's ADHD (and What's Not) in the Classroom

Guidance for teachers on recognizing ADHD, as well as information about other disorders it’s commonly confused with.

Who Is A Trusted Adult?

This Trusted Adult Resource helps to prepare adults for when a young person approaches them for guidance and support. It is also available in Spanish.

Work2BeWell

The #Work2BeWell digital wellness and empowerment program focuses on positively impacting the emotional well-being of teens and promoting mental health. Here you will find free curriculum, programs, and assets that can be used to help educate teens about mental health and wellness. Our platform is designed to increase knowledge and understanding of mental health issues and reduce teen suicide, while being a hub to connect advocates and provide support for teens, parents and teachers.

Workshops for Students of Color

Student workshops are designed to equip high school and college students of color with the knowledge and skills to maintain a positive mental health and well-being throughout their life transitions and academic pursuits. Each workshop is available virtually, pre-recorded or in person and includes topics such as: self-care, racial healing, coping, and addressing microaggressions and racial incidents.

YMC Back to School Mental Wellness Checklist

This year families across America will face the most unusual and challenging “Back to School” environment of our lifetimes. YourMomCares’ team of Expert Mom have put together our 2nd Annual Back to School Mental Wellness Checklist with all the unique circumstances of 2020 in mind. Regardless of what your child’s learning environment looks like, these tips are for you.

Your Voice Is Your Power

Beginning this fall 2020 semester, Active Minds is calling on mental health advocates to help establish a campus culture of caring and support for BIPOC students nationwide. Even before the pandemic, research showed a rise in mental health issues among students over the past decade. And among BIPOC students this increase was even more pronounced. Experts and research predict that mental health challenges will continue to rise this fall, and will almost certainly be exacerbated for BIPOC students who are disproportionately harmed by the pandemic, police violence, and racial discrimination. What’s more, these students are less likely to receive mental health support than white students.

"Know the Signs" Activities for Trusted Adults

As Trusted Adults, we all want our schools, homes, and communities safe. These easy-lift resources and activities boost connection, build empathy, and will empower students to recognize signs and speak up to Trusted Adults to foster safer communities. Find more back-to-school resources here.

#CreateConnectCare

A platform for young people and educators to engage with the #CreateConnectCare initiative. Key areas of the website include Mental Health and Creativity, Safe Storytelling, Teacher Resources, Get the Facts (youth resources), Youth Gallery, and a submissions portal for the Spring and Fall campaigns.

2021 Back to School Mental Wellness Checklist

This year when families across America return to school, many kids will be in the classroom full time for the first time in over a year. YourMomCares’ team of experts have put together our 3rd Annual Back to School Mental Wellness Checklist to prepare parents and kids for the circumstances and emotions unique to this school year and a return to the classroom. Regardless of what your child’s learning environment looks like or what your experience during the pandemic has been, these tips are for you.

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