Youth / Young Adults
ADAA Free WebinarsHere is a link to ADAA’s free mental health webinars. The free webinars have psychology professionals address frequently asked questions about things like anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD. |
Anxiety & OCD in the ClassroomThe 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 GuideThis 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 Mental Health RoadmapIs 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 HubWhether 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. |
Being an Ally to Transgender & Nonbinary Youth
The Trevor Project’s Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth is an introductory educational resource that covers a wide range of topics and best practices on how to support transgender and nonbinary people. |
Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary YouthThe Trevor Project’s Guide to Being an Ally to Transgender and Nonbinary Youth is an introductory educational resource that covers a wide range of topics and best practices on how to support transgender and nonbinary people. |
Black Girl Smile ResourcesBGS believes identifying accessible resources in your community is crucial to mental wellness. The community resources they have identified on this site are a starting point. |
Bring Change to Mind's High School ProgramBring 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. |
Bring Change to Mind's StoriesLearning about the experiences of others can help reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and give those who are suffering the courage to seek help. Read about people living with a mental illness. |
Bring Change to Mind's Youtube ChannelVisit the Bring Change to Mind’s YouTube channel to view tips from teens on how to deal with quarantine, learn about perspectives on racial trauma, learn how to talk about mental health with anyone and much more. |
Child Welfare ResourcesNAMI’s first-ever Child Welfare Resources were created to support youth in creating and maintaining healthy relationships. |
Conoce A MonstruitaTo help foster dialogue between children and the safe adults in their lives, as well as provide children a tool for helping express and explore their feelings in a fun, creative and empowering way, NAMI offers “Meet Little Monster,” a mental health coloring and activity book, available for download at no-cost in both English and Spanish. Created by NAMI Washington, “Meet Little Monster” was developed in response to both the COVID-19 pandemic, when children were suddenly cut off from their friends, teachers, coaches, club leaders and school counselors, and the Black Lives Matter protests for racial justice after the murder of George Floyd. The book also includes a list of mental health resources. |
Cyberbullying Resources for Parents and CaregiversThe 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. |
DBSA Mood CrewEarly childhood is a time when young ones are learning about emotions and finding ways to express them. This fun and engaging educational program, designed for ages 4 to 10, helps adults open a positive conversation about feelings with children. Features downloadable games, worksheets, coloring pages, stories, and much more. Parents, caregivers, therapists, educators, and other adults working with young children will find this program helpful, especially for children who may be having a tough time with feelings. Building early skills in understanding and discussing our moods builds coping skills and supports lifelong mental health. |
Demystifying the Digital DilemmaWhile 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. |
Faculty Guide: Creating a Culture of CaringPractical approaches for college and university faculty to support student wellbeing and mental health. |
Family Resources CenterFind information to help you support children who are struggling with mental health, behavior or learning challenges. |
Going Back to School After a TragedyWhen 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. |
Guide to Girls' Mental HealthA guide to understanding the state of girls’ mental health today & how caregivers can provide support |
Half of USHalf 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 NewsWhat parents can do to aid scared kids in processing grief and fear in a healthy way. |
How Anxiety Leads to Disruptive BehaviorDisruptive behavior in children is often a sign of underlying anxiety. Information for parents and teachers on understanding the connection and supporting kids. |
How to Deal with BullyingA 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 AnxietyThe TL;DR on school stress and anxiety, how to deal with bullies, and coping mechanisms for getting through the day (and night). |
How to Prepare Kids for Back to SchoolMultiple 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 School ShootingsStrategies for dealing with anxiety — your kids’ and your own |
Is My Child's Anger Normal?Tips for parents of children who have trouble controlling their tempers, including possible underlying causes and strategies for managing children’s anger. |
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 ToolkitThe 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. |
Meet Little MonsterTo help foster dialogue between children and the safe adults in their lives, as well as provide children a tool for helping express and explore their feelings in a fun, creative and empowering way, NAMI offers “Meet Little Monster,” a mental health coloring and activity book, available for download at no-cost in both English and Spanish. Created by NAMI Washington, “Meet Little Monster” was developed in response to both the COVID-19 pandemic, when children were suddenly cut off from their friends, teachers, coaches, club leaders and school counselors, and the Black Lives Matter protests for racial justice after the murder of George Floyd. The book also includes a list of mental health resources. |
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. |
OCD & Related Disorders in ChildrenThis resource provides information about OCD in children, family stories, severe cases and related disorders. |
On Our Sleeves MooderatorsThe 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 StressMultiple 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”. |
On Our Sleeves: Mental FitnessKeeping our brain in shape is just as important as our physical fitness. The On Our Sleeves team has 22 suggestions for you and your family to help stay mentally fit and maintain your mental wellness. |
On Our Sleeves Guide to LossMultiple guides on dealing with loss and grief for children and adults. Resource guides included are: “Helping Grieving Children”, “Processing Grief With Kids”, “Helping Children Cope With Divorce and Separation”, and “How to Talk to Children About Death”. |
Our Minds Matter Knowledge HubTo be a mental health advocate, changemaker, or leader, it helps to know the basics. Learn more by clicking on the mental health topics below, and feel free to download or print any infographics you’d like. |
Parenting a Depressed TeenagerAdvice for parents of teenagers dealing with depression, from recognizing symptoms to seeking treatment. |
Parents Guide to Getting Good CareA complete guide for parents on getting effective treatment for children dealing with mental health or learning challenges. Including information on seeking care, understanding a child’s diagnosis and assessing treatment options. |
Prioritizing Student Mental Health During COVID-19Active 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 DisorderA Quick Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorder in CMI’s Family Resource Center. Also available for download. |
Roadmap to Back to School For ParentsThe bigger the change, the bigger the possibility for mental stress. This year, we are returning to schools that look different after a year no one expected, and this shift can cause both stress and opportunity for growth. The back to school time, although it can cause stress, provides a unique opportunity for growth. Periods of transition allow you to do things in a new and improved way. This is a good time to create healthy habits for both physical and mental wellbeing. |
School Break ResourcesThese 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. |
Seize the AwkwardHaving a conversation about mental health might be uncomfortable, but it can make all the difference. Visit the Seize the Awkward page, a collaboration between AFSP, The Jed Foundation and Ad council to check out tools “ from conversation guides to tips“ that can help you help those in need. |
Seize the Awkward
Having a conversation about mental health might be uncomfortable, but it can make all the difference. Visit the Seize the Awkward page, a collaboration between AFSP, The Jed Foundation and Ad Council to check out tools “ from conversation guides to tips“ that can help you help those in need. |
Set to GoSet 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. |
Social Media and Kids Mental HealthThis 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?”. |
State of Mental Health for Youth and Young Adults of ColorThe purpose of this study was to lay foundational groundwork for a critical analysis of the mental health needs and experiences of intersectional Youth and Young Adults of Color because this population of youth is too often overlooked. Through this first of its kind study, The Aakoma Project sought to amplify the mental health experiences and needs of Youth and Young Adults of Color. They examined the impacts of COVID-19 and racial justice; two influences on current youth mental health that helped illuminate our findings under a timely lens. |
Supporting Your Own or a Friend's Mental Health, for Young AdultsWe all go through difficult emotions from time to time, but it can be tough to navigate when you or a friend are in the thick of it. Scroll through this page to find a variety of resources, both for self-coping and supporting others. Remember, it’s okay if some days feel hard. You will get through it, and help is always available. |
Supporting Your Teen's Mental HealthMany 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. |
Supporting Families During COVID-19The Child Mind Institute offers information for parents and caregivers to support their family during the COVID-19 pandemic. |
Teaching Kids About Gender PronounsThe topic of gender diversity is often thought of as something new in today’s world, but gender diverse people have been reintroducing themselves with different pronouns for centuries, such as indigenous cultures across the globe. If your child is curious about pronouns or asks you to use different pronouns for them, here are tips on what pronouns are, why they matter, and how you can be inclusive in using and respecting pronouns. |
Teen Line Message BoardsThe Teen Line Message Boards provide a safe space for teens to talk about whatever they may be struggling with and get support or just connect with a community of over 40,000 youth. The Boards are regularly monitored by a mental health professional. Youth are required to create an account using personal identifiers to participate on the Boards. |
Teenage Depression, Some Basic FactsThis guide provides some basic facts of teenage depression. |
The "Not Alone" Initiative by Inspiring Children FoundationThe “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 Great Collide: How Supported Children Enable Successful CompaniesChildren’s mental health has always been at the forefront of what we do—so when the pandemic hit (less socializing, more stress), we knew we needed to spring into action. Partnering with the Nationwide Foundation, we surveyed 5,406 working adults across the county, and we found that children’s mental health has a large and direct impact on corporate success. Inside this report, you’ll find parents’ concerns and challenges and, most importantly, ways employers can help. We all care deeply about children’s mental health—and the future of work and family depends on our ongoing commitment to it. |
The Jed Foundation's Mental Health Resource CenterThe 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. |
Trevor Support CenterTrevor Support Center is a place where LGBTQ youth and allies can find answers to FAQs and explore resources related to sexual orientation, gender identity and more! |
TrevorSpace
TrevorSpace is a social networking site for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning (LGBTQ) youth under 25 and their friends and allies. |
V-A-RV-A-R is Active Minds’ simple yet powerful conversation guide to help respond to a friend who is struggling. In three simple steps — Validate, Appreciate, Refer — you can help someone know they are not alone in their mental health journey. Learn the steps, bring in an Active Minds V-A-R trainer, or gain skills to empower your peers to incorporate these simple steps into every conversation about mental health. |
Warning Signs GraphicIn 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 ServicesYou 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 ClassroomGuidance 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. |
Work2BeWellThe #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 ColorStudent 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 ChecklistThis 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. |
You MatterYou Matter is a safe space for youth to discuss and share stories about mental health and wellness, created and administered by the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You Matter blog posts are written by a rotating Blogger Council of individuals between the ages of 13-25 that are passionate about suicide prevention and mental health. |
Your Journey: Kids, Teens, and Young AdultsOne of NAMI’s main goals is to ensure that people get help early. Since mental health conditions typically begin during childhood, adolescence or young adulthood, we have compiled essential information and resources intended to help young people get the mental health support they need. |
Your Voice Is Your PowerBeginning 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. |
#CreateConnectCareA 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. |
1-2-1 with Josh Richards & Griffen JohnsonJosh Richards and Griffin Johnson went 1-2-1 about how difficult it can be for them to be vulnerable and open up about their feelings. They were joined by Dr. Stephen Schueller of One Mind Org. |
1-2-1 with Katie Couric & Aija MayrockKatie Couric spoke with poet and activist, Aija Mayrock, who performed an impassioned, profound spoken word about the power of words. |
1-2-1 with Lily Cornell Silver & Susan SilverLily Cornell Silver and her mother, Susan Silver, spoke about the generational differences in approach to and acceptance of mental health and how Susan helped Lily to build her own mental health toolbox starting from a young age. They were joined by Dr. Marc Brackett who elaborated on the importance of preventions vs. interventions, the validity of distraction as a coping technique, and more. |