Parent Handbook
Our handbook is designed to help – with practical ideas written in an easy to read style, we are here to help you. This is a parent-to-parent guide and contains ideas that we have found helpful – ideas that we hope will be of some help to you as you deal with this difficult time in your family’s life.
Parent Depression Discussion Guide
This easy-to-read, one-page, guide is designed to assist parents in having a conversation with their teen about depression and the importance of good mental health.
Intervention Language to Talk to Teens
This is a challenging time for teens. If you are concerned about anything you are observing, you may want to use this simple language to start tough conversations, especially if your child is exhibiting behavior of concern.
Like to run? Join a Virtual Race & support Depression Education!
Race for Depression Awareness with Erika's Lighthouse. Join Team Resilience for this Virtual 4 mile run on July 4, 2020. One Nation is a nationally organized virtual run that includes a bib, t-shirt and a medal for finishers along with the amazing fundraising perks associated with joining Team Resilience.
Take the Pledge
Join Erika's Lighthouse in celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month this May! We are offering 31 days for you to focus on your mental health and help put some good in the world. Here are a few examples:
#ShareSundays
#MentalHealthMondays
#WinningWednesday
#FriendsFamilyFridays
Quick, Healthy Lunches
Try these quick and healthy lunch ideas that you and your family can enjoy at home or on the go. También disponible en español!
Send An E-Card
Let your family, friends, and others know that you are thinking of them by sending an e-card. Download the image above and include it in personalized emails to them. Make their day and show them you care.
Practice Self-Care
Teens are only as good as their parents - and in times of stress, this is even more true. Be sure you practice positive mental health strategies in your daily life:
- Eight to ten hours of sleep per night
- Three nutritious meals per day
- Three or more days of exercise a week
- Avoid drugs and alcohol
- Take care of your physical health
- Engage in activities that bring happiness
- Spend time with your favorite people
- Relaxation exercises, ie: bubble bath, deep breathing, meditation, a walk in nature
- Maintain reasonable expectations and boundaries
- Ask for help and support when needed.
Talk About Coronavirus
Talking to your teen about what is happening in the world around them can seem daunting. In particular, talking about COVID-19 (coronavirus) may be difficult. Harvard Medical School is here to help.
Post Your Support
Add the "We're In This Together" frame to your facebook profile photo. Let your friends and family know that you are there for them if they need help. We truly are in this together.
Family Game Night
A few of our amazing educators have created a fun, educational Jeopardy style online game that can be played with your family for game night!
Talk to Your Teen
It may seem silly to say, but we frequently forget to ask (and mean) a basic question: How are you feeling?
It can be a powerful statement to begin meaningful conversations with your teen.
How to Help Teens Shelter in Place
Teens are not made for isolation, which makes COVID-19 especially hard on them. Here's how to help your teenager to see the bigger picture.
Start A Gratitude Jar
Place a Gratitude Jar in your house. Encourage your family to write down something they are thankful for and place it in the jar daily. Positive thoughts encourage positive mental health.
Blogs Written by Parents for Parents
Adult Handbook by Teens
Our friends at Robbie's Hope have developed an Adult Handbook written by teens for adults. It was created to help parents and trusted adults talk to teens about normal teenage issues of anxiety, depression, and suicide.