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If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988.

"Crisis centers answer calls for the 988 Lifeline, as well as local helplines, and offer other resources such as text, chat, or mobile services. Crisis centers also provide training and educational resources on suicide prevention and mental wellness. They are also a resource for mental health professionals seeking advice on best practices. All of the services a crisis center offers strengthen their local community and the state as a whole."

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Skip to main content

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

988

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Haga clic aquí para obtener información sobre cómo acceder a todos los servicios en español.

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The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We're committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

About The Lifeline

Anyone could be struggling with suicide. Find more specific resources below.

I'm Struggling With Individuals with Neurodivergence

We understand that every struggle is different. Experience the stories of people like you, and how they overcame crisis to find hope and recovery.
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First, you'll hear an automated message featuring additional options while your call is routed to your local 988 Lifeline network crisis center.

We'll play you a little music while we connect you to a skilled, trained crisis worker.

A trained crisis worker at your local center will answer the phone.

This person will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and get you the help you need.

988 Lifeline Center calls are free and confidential, and we're available 24/7.

Show What Happens When You Call The Lifeline

Everyone Plays A Role In Suicide Prevention

Get in touch

Call the Lifeline

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Skip to main content We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. 988 ¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!

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Family Resource Center - Child Mind Institute

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Family Resource Center - Child Mind Institute

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This page on the Child Mind Institute's website allows families to find information to help support their children who are struggling with mental health, behavioral, or learning challenges.

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Family Resource Center - Child Mind Institute

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

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The Anxiety Resource Center was founded to educate the public and professional communities about anxiety disorders and to reduce the stigma.

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This website provides resources for kids, parents, and teachers to help children manage anxiety. It includes activities and worksheets to help kids learn coping skills, as well as articles and videos for parents.

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From Dr. Tamar Chansky
Creator of Worrywisekids.org

Are you worrying about your anxious child? You are not alone.

Anxiety is the number one mental health problem facing children and adolescents today, but it is also the most treatable. If you are the parent of one of the millions of children who suffer from excessive fears and anxieties, we're here to help.

Our mission is to improve the quality of life for anxious children and their families by providing parents, educators and mental health professionals with comprehensive, user-friendly information on the full range of anxiety disorders: how to identify symptoms, find effective treatments and, and prevent anxiety from taking hold in a child's life.

Without intervention, children tend to grow into their fears, not grow out of them. But once children have learned how to challenge worry's authority and outsmart the tricks the brain can play, they are no longer at the whim of their fearful imaginations. Today, kids with anxiety can expect to learn the skills they need to lead a full and happy life. You can help them get there.

Come join us, learn with us and help your child become a worry-wise kid!

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From Dr. Tamar Chansky Creator of Worrywisekids.org Are you worrying about your anxious child? You are not alone. Anxiety is the number one mental health problem facing children and adolescents today, but it is also the most treatable. If you are the parent of one of the millions of children who suffer from excessive fears and anxieties, we're here to help.

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Find resources, activities, and videos from Sesame Street to help children form the bonds and social connections that nurture their well-being.

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Explore our free, bilingual Emotional Well-Being resources to teach kids about their feelings and help young children develop positive mental health skills.

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When Is Anxiety Normal?

It's normal to feel anxious, nervous, or worried at times. Maybe you've felt anxious when you had to talk in front of a group. Or nervous before a tryout or a big test. Maybe you have felt anxious when you weren't sure your surroundings were safe. Or worried when a loved one was sick.

Most people have felt like this.

Anxious feelings can be uncomfortable - but they serve a purpose. They warn that something that matters to you is at stake. With anxious feelings, you might think, "I need to do well here." Or, "This counts - get ready." Or, "Be careful."

Anxiety sets off the body's fight-or-flight response. This is also called the stress response. It's a normal release of hormones that helps you gather the focus and energy you need for a challenge or possible threat. The fight-or-flight response causes the physical feelings that can happen with anxiety.

For example, when you're anxious, you might feel 'butterflies' in your stomach. Or you might have sweaty palms or shaky hands. You might notice your mouth is a little dry. Or your face feels a little warm. You might feel your breathing or heartbeat get faster. With anxiety, you might feel one - or a few - of these.

Feelings like these can help you do what you need to do. You can go ahead with the tryout or take the exam - even though you're nervous. You can check your surroundings to make sure you're safe. You can focus on what a loved one needs and plan how to help instead of getting caught up in the worry.

When you know that anxiety is normal for the situation, you can let go of focusing all your attention on the anxious thoughts and feelings. Instead, you can turn your attention to what you need to do. You don't need to do things to make anxiety 'go away.' You can take a breath and face the challenge. You'll find that anxiety fades on its own.

When Is Anxiety a Problem?

Some people feel anxiety that is too intense. It seems like more than they can cope with. Worries or fears take up too much of their time and energy. Some people might begin to avoid things that make them anxious. These things can be signs of an anxiety disorder.

If you feel like anxiety is too much, tell a parent, school counselor, or your doctor. There are treatments for anxiety disorders. The sooner you start getting help, the better you will feel.

Date reviewed: March 2022

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Anxiety is a natural part of life, and most of us experience it from time to time. Find out about normal anxiety and learn when anxiety can develop into a problem for some people.

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Real Kids Talk About Coping With Anxiety

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Real Kids Talk About Coping With Anxiety

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Real kids talk about coping with anxiety

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Children's Anxiety: 3 Ways to Help Your Anxious Child

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Children's Anxiety: 3 Ways to Help Your Anxious Child

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Children's Anxiety: 3 Ways to Help Your Anxious Child

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Anxiety & Depression Association of America

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It is not uncommon for children to be diagnosed with both depression and an anxiety disorder, or depression and general anxiety. About half of people diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

Teens: Depression is not your fault or caused by something you did wrong.

Children with depression may display these symptoms:

Depressed or irritable mood

Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

Change in grades, getting into trouble at school, or refusing to go to school

Change in eating habits

Feeling angry or irritable

Mood swings

Feeling worthless or restless

Frequent sadness or crying

Withdrawing from friends and activities

Loss of energy

Low self-esteem

Thoughts of death or suicide

When symptoms last for a short period of time, it may be a passing case of "the blues." But if they last for more than two weeks and interfere with regular daily activities and family and school life, your child may have a depressive disorder.

There are two types of depression: major depression and dysthymia. Major depression lasts at least two weeks and may occur more than once throughout your child's life. Your child may experience major depression after a traumatic event such as the death of a relative or friend. Dysthymia is a less severe but chronic form of depression that lasts for at least two years. Learn more about depression.

Children whose parents have depression are at a greater risk of being depressed. While depression affects all ages and both genders, girls are more likely to develop depression during adolescence. Research shows that depression is also a risk factor for suicide. As many as 2 to 3 percent of children ages 6 to 12, and 6 to 8 percent of teens may have serious depression, and an estimated 2.8 million adolescents (ages 12 to 17) in the United States had at least one major depressive episode in 2014. Furthermore, about 80 percent of kids with an anxiety disorder and 60 percent with depression are not getting treatment.

Depression and anxiety disorders can often be treated the same way and at the same time. Like anxiety disorders, depression can be treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy and antidepressants. Learn more about treatment.

Resources

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It is not uncommon for children to be diagnosed with both depression and an anxiety disorder, or depression and general anxiety. About half of people diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Teens: Depression is not your fault or caused by something you did wrong. Learn more here.

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American Academy of Children and Adolescent Psychiatry 

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Anxiety and Children No. 47; Updated October 2017 All children experience some anxiety. Anxiety in children is expected and normal at specific times in development. For example, from approximately age 8 months through the preschool years, healthy youngsters may show intense distress (anxiety) at times of separation from their parents or other people with whom they are close.

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ART THERAPY activity for anxiety, grounding, & mindfulness: Therapeutic art projects at home

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ART THERAPY activity for anxiety, grounding, & mindfulness: Therapeutic art projects at home

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ART THERAPY activity for anxiety, grounding, & mindfulness: Therapeutic art projects at home

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What Is Social Anxiety? | Child Psychology

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What Is Social Anxiety? | Child Psychology

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What Is Social Anxiety? | Child Psychology

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20 Ways To Help Students Who Struggle With Anxiety

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20 Ways To Help Students Who Struggle With Anxiety

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Chances are you've seen a significant increase in the number of students who struggle with mental health over the past several years. According to JAMA Pediatrics, even before the pandemic, the rate of child and adolescent anxiety increased 27% between 2016 and 2019. By 2020, more than 5.6 million youths were diagnosed with anxiety. With symptoms such as trouble concentrating, an upset stomach, or sleeplessness, anxiety can be one of the most debilitating challenges students face in classrooms today.

We know anxiety is more than just "worries." It can influence classroom performance just as much as any other learning disability. Kids who are worried and anxious aren't doing it on purpose. The nervous system acts automatically, especially when it comes to worry (which often stems from fight-or-flight reflexes). That's why phrases like "just relax" or "calm down" aren't helpful. But with practice, kids can learn to slow down their anxious brains, and we can learn to help them. Here are a few ways you can help anxious kids in the classroom.

1. Educate yourself about anxiety

The more you understand about anxiety, the more you can arm yourself with strategies to help your students. This article from district superintendent Jon Konen provides a definition of anxiety, its causes, how to recognize it, types of anxiety disorders, and, most importantly, how you can help as a teacher.

2. Create strong bonds

Building strong bonds and connecting to youth can protect their mental health. Schools and parents can create these protective relationships with students and help them grow into healthy adulthood. Try these 12 Ways To Build Strong Classroom Community.

3. Practice those deep breaths

When people slow down their breathing, they slow down their brain. When I notice that one of my kids is struggling with anxiety, I'll often lead the whole class in a breathing exercise. It helps the child who is overwhelmed and usually a few other kids too. Sometimes I'll do it just because the whole class is squirrelly and we need to focus. Slow, deep breaths are the key. This article about belly breathing describes the process I like to use with my kids. It works every single time.

4. Take a break and go outside

Being out in nature can also calm an anxious brain. Sometimes just a change of scenery is what makes the difference. Breathing the cool air or making time to notice chirping birds can also calm an overactive worrier. Asking students to carefully observe their environment can help them turn the focus away from their worries and toward something more tangible: How many different kinds of trees do you see? How many different bird songs do you hear? How many different shades of green are in the grass?

It doesn't hurt for us to take a mental break sometimes too. Check out 20 Terrific Guided Meditation for Teachers.

5. Talk openly about anxiety

Don't set anxiety up as something you want (or should) get rid of. It's part of life, and it's not realistic to think it'll go away completely. You can help students see and understand this in your own actions. Check out this great article of what you should (and shouldn't) do when working with kids dealing with anxiety.

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6. Tackle the topic with a good book

Often, when one of my kids is struggling, the school counselor will come and share a picture book about managing anxiety with the entire class. Some kids may not be receptive to direct, one-on-one intervention, but they will respond beautifully if they know the whole class is receiving the same information. Check out this list of great books for kids with anxiety.

7. Get kids moving

Exercise helps anyone who is feeling anxious. Anxiety can end up looking like anger, so if you see this, try taking a movement break. You probably already have some favorite ways to do this, but if you're looking for some ideas, check out our video above. You can also get the free set of printables for that right here.

8. Try walking and talking

Building on the moving idea, if you have a student that needs some one-on-one attention, try the " On My Walk " activity. I used to have a student who struggled a lot with anxiety, and this worked great with her. After a couple of loops around the playground with me, everything would feel a little better. Our walk served three purposes: 1. It removed her from the situation. 2. It gave her a chance to explain the issue to me. 3. It got her blood pumping, which clears out the anxiety-producing energy and brings in the positive exercise endorphins.

9. Focus on the positive by having students keep a gratitude journal

The brain is incapable of producing anxious thoughts while it is producing positive thoughts stemming from gratitude. If you can trigger a positive train of thought, you can sometimes derail the anxiety. I knew a teacher who had his fifth graders keep gratitude journals, and every day they would record at least one thing they were thankful for. When his students seemed overwhelmed by negativity or mired in anxiety, he'd encourage them to reread their journals.

Check out the video above for another inspiring teacher or these 22 videos to help kids understand gratitude.

10. Validate students' feelings

Before trying to problem-solve with students who are in the midst of racing thoughts or have completely shut down, Phyllis Fagell, a school counselor and therapist based in Maryland and Washington, D.C., recommends validating their feelings. For instance, saying, "If I was afraid I might look dumb, I'd be worried about raising my hand too," may reduce the impact of anxiety and help a student relax, develop trust, and feel understood. Fagell also reminds teachers not to shame anxious students. For more, check out the full article from WGU.

11. Remind kids to eat healthily and stay well

For the most part, teachers don't really have a lot of control over what students eat and how much they sleep, but these things do matter when it comes to managing anxiety. Not surprisingly, a healthy diet and plenty of sleep make a difference in how well a student is able to handle situations that could be overwhelming. It's one of the reasons that snack and rest time are an essential part of the day for preschoolers!

For your younger students, check out 17 tasty books that teach kids about nutrition and healthy eating habits for a list of picture books about healthy eating.

12. Encourage families to make sure their children are getting enough sleep

With all the extracurricular activities available to kids, not to mention the allure of high-stimulus technology, many kids are just not getting the amount of healthy sleep they need. According to the CDC, children ages 6-12 need as much as 9-12 hours of sleep each night. Preschoolers need even more (10-13 hours), and teens need between 8 and 10 hours. A solid night's sleep does wonders for improving mood, concentration, and outlook. Good sleep quality is also essential. Encourage healthy sleep habits in your students with these Tips for Better Sleep.

13. Create a space where kids can express their anxiety

You've probably heard of classroom safe spaces, and this is a great option to offer if you have students dealing with anxiety. A safe space is a comfy zone in the classroom where kids can go to decompress and regroup. Many teachers include glitter jars, headphones, books, or other items to help kids get back on track.

14. Use fidgets

Another helpful idea, which can stand on its own or be part of your safe space, is offering students classroom fidgets. Sometimes this can work wonders in just giving kids an outlet for their amped-up energy. Here are 39 of our favorite classroom fidgets.

15. Try aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is thought to help activate certain receptors in the brain, potentially easing anxiety. Whether in the form of essential oil, incense, or a candle, natural scents like lavender, chamomile, and sandalwood can be very soothing. Check for sensitivities among your students before introducing a scent to the whole class. An alternative could be an unlit candle, dried herbs, or a sachet treated with essential oil kept in the classroom safe space for students to use individually.

16. Teach kids to recognize their warning signs

Everyone experiences anxiety differently. For children, signs may include shortness of breath, stomachaches, or inability to settle down and concentrate, among others. Coaching students to recognize their unique triggers and warning signs can help them know when to take a step back. Integrate social-emotional strategies throughout the day to help students learn to manage their anxiety.

17. Incorporate Zones of Regulation strategies

Students with anxiety need concrete, easy-to-use strategies to help them cope. Rooted in cognitive therapy, Zones of Regulation is a curriculum developed to help kids understand and learn to manage their emotions. This informative article offers 18 helpful strategies.

18. Offer individual accommodations

For older students, accommodations can make all the difference. Many students struggle with performance anxiety, especially when it comes to tests. When a student is feeling anxious, their brain simply can't function as effectively. When we can set up our tests and assignments so anxious kids are less stressed, they'll likely perform better. Extended time and cue sheets could help kids who suffer from test anxiety. For other accommodations for kids who struggle with anxiety, check out this list from Worry Wise Kids.

The good news about anxiety is that it is one of the most manageable mental-health struggles that children face in the classroom. With the right support and strategies, most children are able to develop strategies that help them manage their anxiety.

The Child Mind Institute offers a " Symptom Checker " to help inform you about a student's possible diagnoses and information and articles to help facilitate a conversation.

19. Mind your classroom management

Schools play a critical role in helping students manage anxiety by creating environments where all students feel that they are cared for, supported, and belong. Certain classroom management approaches strengthen school connectedness. From teacher expectations and behavior management to student autonomy and empowerment, these strategies make a difference.

20. Teach inclusivity

Poor mental health is a growing problem for children and adolescents. According to a JAMA Pediatrics meta-analysis of 29 studies including 80, 879 youths, the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms has significantly increased, remains high, and therefore warrants attention.

And some groups are affected more than others. In a report by the CDC, feelings of anxiety and depression were found to be more common among lesbian, gay, or bisexual students and female students. Almost half of lesbian, gay, or bisexual students and nearly one-third of students not sure of their sexual identity reported they had seriously considered suicide-far more than heterosexual students. It is essential that schools put serious effort into creating safe, inclusive classrooms and invest in curricula that supports equity. Here are 50 Tips for Facilitating a More Inclusive Classroom and 5 Ways Social-Emotional Learning Can Help Your Class Become a More Inclusive Community.

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20 Ways To Help Students Who Struggle With Anxiety

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If you have students with anxiety in your classroom, words like "relax" don't help. Instead, try these ideas.

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Supporting Students with Special Needs and Mental Health Disorders

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Supporting Students with Special Needs and Mental Health Disorders

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Disruptive behavior in special needs children may be generated by a mental health disorder. According to a 2008 study at Indiana University, 70 percent of a sample of children ages 10 to 14, and on the Autism spectrum, had also been diagnosed with another disorder.
A child who appears to be oppositional or aggressive may, in fact, be reacting to severe anxiety. This is often a physiological condition, as opposed to a learned behavior, and therefore difficult to address with your typical behavior intervention plan. Depending on the student's age or degree of special needs, the child may not even fully recognize that he's feeling anxious or be able to articulate it. Students suffering from anxiety disorders may sometimes be unable to meet academic and behavioral expectations, but there are ways that parents and teachers can help.

What is an Anxiety Disorder?

An anxiety disorder is characterized by a debilitating fear and worry. It can be a specific phobia, social anxiety, separation anxiety, or a general anxiety disorder, which is manifest by constantly worrying about lots of things. These forms of anxiety can cause headaches or stomach aches, or the child may become so overwhelmed that she isolates herself or acts out in frustration. Extreme anxiety can even lead to panic disorder, which is a sudden, intense episode of anxiety that can cause hyperventilating and a pounding heartbeat.

While some worry is necessary to keep kids alert to actual danger, and all children experience nerves from time to time, children with special needs often struggle with unnecessary anxiety that makes it difficult for them to function in school and in the community. A therapist or medical professional, such as a Child Psychiatrist, is vital to help with proper diagnosis and treatment. A professional can help you understand what's really going on with your child, what's provoking the behavior, and can give the child tools to deal with anxiety and prevent severe outbursts.

How to Help Special Needs' Children with Anxiety Disorders

Pay attention to your child's feelings. When your child becomes overly anxious, it can help to have an action plan of positive steps to prevent the anxiety from escalating.

​Stop what you are doing and take a few deep breaths with your child. You can't calm an anxious child if you are anxious yourself.

Don't dismiss your child's feelings, or say he is anxious over nothing. Assure your child that his feelings are valid, and you will help him work through them. Convey confidence in the child's ability to handle his worries.

Once your child calms down, give praise for successfully managing the anxiety. Encourage and reward your child for his effort in monitoring his behaviors.

Plan for transitions

Any transition is difficult for a special needs child, so try to maintain a normal routine whenever possible. When the routine will be disrupted, give the child plenty of time and support to prepare in advance, both mentally and physically.

Create a checklist of coping skills for your child. Teach your child to work through the checklist when he or she is anxious.
Some items on the checklist might include:

Take a deep breath.
Pet an animal or find another tactile outlet like squeezing a stress ball or theraputty.

Sing a song.

Catch your thoughts. If they are verbal, listen to what they are expressing and write down or speak the anxious feeling out loud with them. This can help reinforce your empathy and understanding of what "they" are feeling. Ask, is it true? Again, depending on their level of disability, some of these techniques can help.

A professional therapist or psychiatrist might also recommend medication to help your child manage their anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a specific professional technique can also be used to help children with anxiety.

While the disruptive behavior of an extremely anxious child is upsetting for everyone, anxiety disorders in special needs children can be managed, with some empathy and professional help.

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Mental Health Disorders and Special Needs Students: Anxiety Disorder -

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Anxiety disorder is characterized by a debilitating fear and worry. It can be a specific phobia or a general anxiety disorder.

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Resources for LGBTQ+ Mental Health Support | The Trevor Project

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Resources for LGBTQ+ Mental Health Support | The Trevor Project

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Resources for Mental Health Support | The Trevor Project

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Here are some helpful resources to help you explore the topic of mental health. Remember, you can always reach out, if you need immediate help.

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NAMI Compartiendo Esperanza: Mental Wellness in Hispanic/Latin American Community

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NAMI Compartiendo Esperanza: Mental Wellness in Hispanic/Latin American Community

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For many of us, we've come from a long line of luchonas who taught us the values of hard work, sacrifice and always putting our familia first.

It can feel selfish to take time for ourselves and our own mental health. We may feel like we don't have the right words to describe what's going on inside us, or we might be afraid our family won't understand.

You know what they say... Al mal tiempo buena cara.

But in a time when we have been disproportionately impacted by a global pandemic, anti-immigration sentiments and policies leading to o increasingly frequent forced deportation and trauma in our communities - we can't just keep pretending everything is okay; we have to start talking about it.

Did You Know?

*compared to non-Hispanic white adults That's why we created NAMI Compartiendo Esperanza - because Hispanic/Latin American people around the country need and deserve somewhere they can turn to for free, accessible mental health support, generational wisdom and communal healing.

It's Time For Us To Take The Narrative Back.

Changing la cultura starts with us: no more machismo and marianismo, no more shame around reaching out for help, no more silence around our mental health.

NAMI Compartiendo Esperanza helps introduce discussions on mental health and wellness through a three-part community conversation series grounded in sacred storytelling and guided dialogue on mental wellness and support.

The Healing Power Of La Comunidad

If you are a part of the Hispanic/Latin American community and are looking to join or start conversations about mental well-being, we made NAMI Compartiendo Esperanza for you.

We provide high-quality videos, facilitator guides and other resources that you can use to organize welcoming, culturally competent community conversations that break down stigma, challenge stereotypes and make it safe and easy to talk about mental wellness with facilitators who participants can relate to and trust. Separate segments are available for Families, Young People and Community Leaders, and materials can be adapted to diverse settings - from churches to cafeterías to large celebrations, family gatherings and more.

If you are interested in...

fill out the form below:

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NAMI Compartiendo Esperanza: Mental Wellness in Hispanic/Latin American Community

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Changing La Cultura & Helping Our Gente For many of us, we've come from a long line of luchonas who taught us the values of hard work, sacrifice and always putting our familia first. It can feel selfish to take time for ourselves and our own mental health. We may feel [...]

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How We're Reaching Spanish-Speaking Families - Child Mind Institute

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How We're Reaching Spanish-Speaking Families - Child Mind Institute

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We will not sell, share or trade our donors' names or personal information with any other entity, nor send mailings to our donors on behalf of other organizations. This policy applies to all information received by the Child Mind Institute, both online and offline, as well as any electronic, written, or oral communications. To the extent any donations are processed through a third-party service provider, our donors' information will only be used for purposes necessary to process the donation.

The Child Mind Institute comprises a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Child Mind Institute, Inc., and two clinical programs, Child Mind Medical Practice, PLLC and Child Mind Medical Practice, PC. Donations to the Child Mind Institute are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. The Child Mind Institute does not accept funding from the pharmaceutical industry. Upon request, a copy of our latest annual report can be obtained by contacting the Child Mind Institute at Attention: Development Office, 215 East 50th Street
New York, New York 10022 or by contacting the Charities Bureau of the Office of the Attorney General at 120 Broadway, New York, NY 10271.

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How We're Reaching Spanish-Speaking Families - Child Mind Institute

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We're building our capacity to engage Spanish-speaking families through public education, partnerships, school programs and human resources measures.

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Diversity and Culture in Child Mental Health Care

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Diversity and Culture in Child Mental Health Care

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Diversity and Culture in Child Mental Health Care

No. 118; Updated January 2019

American families come from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Each person's background affects the way he or she views the world and gets help for physical or mental health problems.

Many parents get advice and support from family, friends, and faith leaders when their child is struggling. When a mental health professional is needed, it is important to find someone who understands that culture can affect your child's behavior, development, diagnosis, and treatment. This is called culturally informed or culturally competent care. Other phrases that can be used to describe cultural competency are 'cultural sensitivity' or 'cultural awareness.'

Culture influences how we understand and respond to behavior. Cultural competency is important for considering the following areas of family life:

Behaviors that are common and "normal" in one culture even when they are not in others

Ways to manage everyday problems that can occur between a child and parents or others

Religious beliefs, practices, and events

Family customs and traditions

Conflicts that arise between parents and children if the child is spending more time with friends than with family

Different ways of expressing emotions and problems

Children and families from culturally diverse groups have unique needs that are not always met by our current health care system. They may have more difficulty finding health care providers or be at risk for higher rates of medical or mental health conditions. Some children have to adjust to having different values at home and school, particularly if their parents were raised in a different culture. A culturally aware mental health professional will try to understand and help address these sources of stress.

Families may want to see a mental health professional who has a similar background or who knows about their culture. Some ways that families can find a clinician who shares their cultural background include:

Talking with members of your cultural community

Consulting with spiritual or religious leaders, school counselors, or teachers

Checking newspapers, magazines, or websites

Checking with your local or public state mental health agency

Your mental health professional may come from a different culture or background. You can help your clinician to understand your culture by bringing up the following subjects:

Cultural values and religious beliefs

Languages spoken at home and school and different family members' preferred language

Traditional medicines or treatments

Parenting practices and discipline methods

The role of family and community in your child's life

What is expected of children at different ages in your culture

How and when feelings are shown in your family and community

Your family's immigration or transition experience to the new culture

Losses and trauma from a youth's immigration or transition

Factors that make it difficult for your family to obtain mental health care, including transportation, finances, and cultural beliefs

Conflict between your child and older generations of the family

Your child's cultural strengths

Some things that your mental health professional can do to provide culturally competent care include:

With permission, working together with your cultural, community, or religious organizations

Supporting parents and caregivers in using behavioral management skills that are in line with their beliefs and values

Including family members who are "non-blood relatives" in the evaluation and treatment when requested by family or child

Recognizing the types of therapy and medications that work best in youth from specific diverse groups

Appreciating and recognizing cultural biases and how they can interfere with treatment

If your mental health provider does not speak your preferred language, you and your family will need an interpreter. Hospitals and many mental health agencies have access to interpreters (for spoken language) and translators (for written language). Interpreters have been trained to communicate exactly what you and the professional say, and to respect your privacy. It is best not to use friends or family members as an interpreter. It is especially important not to have your child act as your interpreter.

Regardless of what language you speak, a mental health professional with cultural sensitivity will better understand your family's point of view and can also offer guidance that takes into account your family's values and beliefs. The more information you can provide to your clinicians to increase understanding about your family's cultural background and value system, the more the professional will be able to help you to develop a plan to help your child.

The following are some additional resources to use in your search for a culturally sensitive mental health provider:

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diversity and culture in child mental health care

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Diversity and Culture in Child Mental Health Care

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Diversity and Culture in Child Mental Health Care No. 118; Updated January 2019 American families come from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Each person's background affects the way he or she views the world and gets help for physical or mental health problems. Many parents get advice and support from family, friends, and faith leaders when their child is struggling.

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The Impact of Culture On Your Child's Mental Health - Butterfly Beginnings Counseling

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The Impact of Culture On Your Child's Mental Health - Butterfly Beginnings Counseling

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Butterfly Beginnings Counseling - Play Therapy and Counseling for children and families in Davenport, Iowa

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Culture is a broad term that encompasses our values, beliefs, customs, and traditions. It is passed down from generation to generation, and it shapes the way we see the world and our place in it.

Culture is a powerful force that can shape our lives in many ways, including our development and mental health. As parents, it's important to be aware of how our child's culture may be impacting their mental health, so that we can provide them with the support they need.

Ways culture can impact a child's mental health:

Culture can influence a child's sense of identity. Culture helps children to develop a sense of who they are and where they belong. It provides them with a framework for understanding themselves and their place in the world. Children who feel a strong sense of belonging to their culture often have better mental health outcomes. However, children who feel isolated from their culture, or who experience discrimination because of their culture, may be more likely to experience mental health problems.

Culture teaches children about what is important in life. It shapes their values and beliefs, which guide their behavior and decisions. Culture can influence a child's expectations and values. Children who are raised in cultures that emphasize values such as hard work, perseverance, and respect for others are often more resilient in the face of challenges. However, children who are raised in cultures that have high expectations for academic achievement or financial success may be more likely to experience anxiety or depression if they don't meet these expectations.

Culture can influence a child's coping mechanisms. Some cultures have strong traditions of support and community, and children from these cultures may have more resources to draw on when they are struggling. However, children from cultures that are less supportive or that stigmatize mental illness may be less likely to seek help when they need it.

Relationships: Culture influences the way that children interact with others. It teaches them about social norms and expectations, and it helps them to develop communication and conflict resolution skills.

Well-being: Culture can have a positive or negative impact on a child's well-being. Children who are raised in supportive and nurturing cultures are more likely to be happy and healthy. However, children who are raised in cultures that are discriminatory or oppressive may be more likely to experience mental health problems.

As parents, it is important to be aware of the impact of culture on our children. We can help our children to develop a positive and healthy cultural identity. We can also help our children to develop strong values by modeling positive behavior and by teaching them about the importance of respect, empathy, and tolerance.

How parents can support their children's cultural development:

Teach your child about your culture and traditions. This may include sharing stories, songs, food, and other cultural activities with your child. It is also important to talk to your child about your family history and the values that are important to you.

Help your child to connect with other members of your community. This may involve taking your child to cultural events, enrolling them in cultural classes, or introducing them to other families who share your culture.

Encourage your child to learn about other cultures. This may involve reading books, watching movies, or traveling to different countries. It is important to teach your child about the importance of diversity and tolerance.

Be a role model for your child. Show your child that you respect and value all cultures. Avoid making negative stereotypes or generalizations about people from other cultures.

Here are a few things that parents can do to support their child's mental health in the context of culture:

Help your child to develop a strong sense of identity. This may involve teaching them about your culture and traditions, and helping them to connect with other members of your community. It is also important to validate your child's cultural identity, even if it is different from your own.

Talk to your child about their expectations and values. Help them to understand that it is okay to have their own goals and values, even if they are different from what is expected of them by their culture. It is also important to teach your child about diversity and tolerance, so that they are more accepting of others who are different from them.

Teach your child healthy coping mechanisms. This may include things like relaxation techniques, problem-solving skills, and communication skills. It is also important to create a supportive home environment where your child feels comfortable talking to you about their problems.

Seek professional help if needed. If you are concerned about your child's mental health, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can provide your child with support and guidance, and help them to develop coping skills to deal with the challenges they are facing. Contact us if you need support in this area.

It is important to remember that culture is just one factor that influences a child's mental health. Other factors, such as genetics, parenting style, and life experiences, also play a role. However, by being aware of the impact of culture on mental health, parents can better support their child's emotional well-being. By supporting your child's cultural development, you can help them to develop a strong sense of identity, positive values, and healthy relationships. This will give them a foundation for success in all areas of their lives.

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The impact of culture on your child's mental health - Butterfly Beginnings Counseling

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Culture is a broad term that encompasses our values, beliefs, customs, and traditions. It is passed down from generation to generation, and it shapes the way we see the world and our place in it. Culture is a powerful force that can shape our lives in many ways, including our development and mental health.

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Did you know that poor pain management is almost ALWAYS behind the freakout?!

The Meg Foundation gives kids, parents, and caregivers science-backed superpowers to help manage the pain experience and fend off any freakout monsters in the process.

To get started, tell us how it hurts:

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Did you know that poor pain management is almost ALWAYS behind the freakout?! The Meg Foundation gives kids, parents, and caregivers science-backed superpowers to help manage the pain experience and fend off any freakout monsters in the process. To get started, tell us how it hurts:

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Caring for Young Adult Latinos | The Center for Youth Mental Health | NewYork-Presbyterian

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Caring for Young Adult Latinos | The Center for Youth Mental Health | NewYork-Presbyterian

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Caring for Young Adult Latinos | The Center for Youth Mental Health | NewYork-Presbyterian

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Dr. Cristiane Duarte is Clinical Site Director of the Washington Heights clinic. Dr. M. Carolina Zerrate, a psychiatrist, is Medical Director of the Washington Heights clinic.

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Calming Anxiety - Coping Skills for Kids

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Calming Anxiety - Coping Skills for Kids

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This page contains affiliate links, read the disclosure statement Inside: Kid tested strategies used by child therapists for calming anxiety, including ideas to calm down, books to read and videos that can help
It's happening again. Your daughter is frustrated and stomping away down to her room, slamming the door and in general "has her cranky pants on". You say calm down, but she yells back "I don't know how to do that!!!"

We tend to tell our kids to "calm down" without ever giving them explicit directions on how to deal with stress and anxiety. Here's a collection of the best tools and tips I've found to teach children how to calm down and relax.

Sometimes you'll need a quick way to help your child calm down and you don't have much with you. Maybe it's when you're out at Target or stuck in traffic. These tips will come in handy at those times:

Imagine your favorite place - it's like taking a mini vacation wherever you are

Think of your favorite things

Name animals alphabetically (alligator, bear, cow, dog, etc...)

Squeeze Something (play dough, clay, silly putty, your fists, a stress ball)

Get a Cold Drink of Water

54321 Grounding - go through each of your 5 senses

1. Put your arms straight out in front of you, palms facing out.

2. Put one hand over the other at the wrists and interlace your fingers.

3. Swoop your hands and arms toward your body and then place your interlaced hands on your chest.

4. Cross your feet at the ankles and put your tongue on the roof of your mouth.

5. Stay still for one minute.

It's great to have a big list of coping skills to try when your child needs to calm down. Here are two more short lists of ideas for calming down at home or at school.

From Imperfect Families - Strategies to use at home

From Encourage Play - 10 Strategies to Help Kids Calm Down at school or home

People usually roll their eyes initially when they hear "breathing is important". But I will continue to say it and explain why. It's so simple, yet has such a big impact on your body's physiology.

When you and calm and relaxed, your body is in "rest and digest" mode. You breathe normally, your heart rate is lower and your muscles are relaxed. However, when stress or anxiety or anger occurs, your body automatically switches into "flight, fight or freeze" mode. Your muscles tense up, your heart rate increases and your breathing becomes more shallow.

Taking deep breaths, instead of shallow breaths, is one way to tell your body to get back to resting and digesting. That's why deep breathing is important!

Luckily, there are some fun ways to teach kids deep breathing techniques

Things to use

Things to say

Breathe in like you are smelling a flower, breathe out like you are blowing out birthday candles

Arms up and breathe in, arms down and breathe out

Pretend your belly is a balloon. Breathe in and make the balloon bigger, then breathe out and make the balloon shrink.

Videos to watch
4 - 7 - 8 Breathing by GoZen
Breathing at Sea Otter Cove from Stress Free Kids

A Coping Skills Toolbox is a kit that you create to help your child calm down when they are upset, anxious or worried. In order to get the most benefit from this, you should create this kit before an issue occurs. When your child experiences anxiety, then they can pick out an item from their Coping Skills Toolbox. This is one of my favorite ways to help kids learn to calm their anxiety.

Here are some other fantastic ideas for what to put in a coping skills toolbox/calm down kit from And Next Comes L

You can create a place specially designed to allow to calm down in a few steps

Find a spot and make it cozy (ask your child for help with that - maybe they can place a favorite blanket or stuffed animal inside)

Add calming tools

Explain how to use it and practice before

When they are starting to escalate, catch it early and give them a calm reminder about their calm down spot

Use the following phrases as a way to support your child, let them know that you're going to support them and help them in any way that you can.

"I'm here for you"

"Talk to me and tell me what's going on"

"How can I help?"

"Together, we can work on this. We're a great team"

"I love you"

"Do you want a hug?"

Here are some more ideas of what to say to calm an anxious child.

From Go Zen - 49 Phrases to Calm an Anxious Child

From Lemon Lime Adventures - What to Say to Calm an Anxious Child

Did you know there are podcasts with stories for children? Usually the hosts have a soothing voice and the stories tend to be pretty short. Your child can listen to these podcasts as a way to have some down time.

There are scripts you can read to your child to help them relax and calm down. Slowly and carefully read the words as your child listens and follows the instructions. Check out Inner Health Studios list of scripts you can use with your child. If you prefer not to read a script, there are ones that are pre-recorded.

There are also scripts to practice mindfulness with children. Eline Snel has written a great book on Mindfulness with Kids, Sitting Still Like a Frog. Here are the several scripts that can be used from that book!

Annaka Harris also has several pre-recorded scripts to help kids practice mindfulness

Confused about how to introduce mindfulness to kids? Check out these resources:
Simple Ways to Introduce Mindfulness and Meditation to Children 11 Simple But Effective Ways to Teach Mindfulness to Kids
What you need:

I've used empty soda bottles, empty water bottles, glass jars and plastic containers. Use whatever makes sense for you and your family. For instance, for the calming jars the kids have in their room, I used a heavy duty plastic bottle. I didn't want them to accidentally knock over a glass jar in the dark - that would be a huge mess!

I've had the best results when I've used warm water - it makes it easier for the water and paint to combine.
Glitter Paint
I prefer using glitter paint (or glitter glue) instead of glitter because then I'm not cleaning up glitter for weeks at my house after we make them :-)

To make your jar, add glitter paint to the bottom of the jar until it just covers the bottom of it. Add warm water. Put the cover on and shake to help the ingredients combine. Once you are satisfied with the look of your jar, then you can super glue the lid shut so it doesn't spill. In a pinch, I've also used duct tape to secure the lid.
Watch Make a Simple Calming Jar from Coping Skills for Kids on YouTube Wet Ingredients
Sometimes you want the glitter/other items to stay afloat longer or for a shorter amount of time. Here are some different ingredients you can use as the wet ingredients.
Dry Ingredients
To see several other ways to make calming jars, take a look at what Preschool Inspirations did.

One of the first things I always like to do with kids if they are struggling is to start using visuals. When you're stressed and anxious, it's harder to read and take in information. Visuals are easier.

I like to keep calming cue cards in my children's coping skills toolboxes so that they can make a decision about what coping skill they can use. Sometimes pulling out a list is too much in the moment. You can make your own cue cards.

1. Take several index cards or small pieces of cardstock

2. On each one, write or draw one coping skill

3. Hole punch the cards and place them on a keyring (to make them extra sturdy, you can laminate them)

4. Put them into the coping skills toolbox for easy access

Using visuals is a powerful way to help kids. When kids are overwhelmed, sometimes it's hard for them to figure out what to do. By having cue cards, your child can have a visual reminder of what calms and relaxes them.

To make things a little easier, I've created ready to use coping skills cue cardsfor you. There are four different sets: Calming, Physical, Distracting, and Processing. If you'd like all 4, I created a set where you can download them all together.

If your child is anxious, they may also be having a difficult time getting settled for bedtime. Here are some ideas to help your child get settled at bedtime.

PINPOINT WHAT THE FEAR IS

One of the most important things to do is to figure out exactly what is causing the anxiety. Is it fear of the dark? Is it a worry about something in the closet? Is it monsters? Is it spiders? Figuring out the cause of the fear will help you come up with ways you can help your child combat it.

REARRANGE THE ROOM

Are there particular spots of the room that seem to be darker or cause more fear at night than others? Go into the bedroom during the day with your child and talk about the spots that make your child nervous. Try moving night lights and furniture around for a more calming room arrangement.

TRANSITIONAL OBJECTS

If your child has a hard time separating from you, try a transitional object. This is a special item that helps your child feel comforted. It helps them feel like part of you is still present even when you're not there. It could be something like a stuffed animal or a special stone or necklace, or a sweatshirt of yours. The object isn't what matters, it's what the object represents. They can keep it and hold it all night long to help them relax and go to sleep.

Find more strategies here: 12 Kid Friendly Strategies to Calm Anxiety at Night

Looking for some calming guided meditation to help get to sleep at night? Try one of these: Best Guided Meditations for Sleep.

Whenever I sit down and talk with someone about their coping skills, one of the first
things I ask is if they have tried writing about it. Why do I always start with journaling as
a way of processing through difficult feelings?

It's easier to write about than talk about hard things

Journaling helps you process what's happening.

It's convenient.

It's not graded

It can help you solve a problem

It can help you re-frame your thinking

Looking for a journal for a child or teen? Check out Big Life Journals!

General Anxiety

The Coping Skills for Kids Workbook by Janine Halloran. This book has over 75 strategies for kids to try to help them manage their stress and worry. This book also includes colorful worksheets to help kids learn more about their anxiety and what they can do to manage their stress.

Wilma Jean the Worry Machine by Julia Cook I love that when Wilma Jean's physical reactions are described, they're also illustrated. When is says she has knots in her stomach and her knees lock, her stomach really looks like it's tied in a knot and there's a real lock around her knees. I love the activity she does with her teacher, going over worries she can control and worries she can't, it's a great way to help kids manage their anxiety.

David and the Worry Beast by Anne Marie Guanci David's anxiety is a beast, and the more anxious he gets, the bigger it grows. David learns to control his thoughts, and his beast shrinks. There's also a couple of pages for parents and kids in the back.

When My Worries Get Too Big by Kari Dunn Buron This book is wonderful! There are several pages where kids can add in their own thoughts, worries and what helps them relax. This book also uses the 5 point scale to talk about stress and different ways to manage it.

What To Do When You Worry Too Much by Dawn Huebner, PhD This book goes through several ways that can help kids manage anxiety, including setting a time for worries, thinking about things that make you happy and resetting your body with activity or relaxation. There are some interactive places in this book, where a child can write down their worries, draw some images of things that might help, etc.

What To Do When You're Scared and Worried by James J. Crist This is one of my favorite books for kids to help them deal with anxiety. Near the beginning of the book is a checklist that helps kids narrow down what they are anxious about. The beginning of the book covers the basics of what anxiety is and how to help manage with coping skills. The next section of the book goes into detail about different types of anxiety kids might experience, including Separation Anxiety, Phobias and Panic Attacks.

Separation Anxiety

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn Classic about managing separation anxiety when kids start school. My daughter's kindergarten teacher read this on our visit to school the first day.

When I miss you by Cornelia Maude Spelman This is perfect for little ones who have a hard time dealing with the fact that they are away from their parents during the day. It suggests a couple of things they can do to help and reassurance that parents will come back at the end of the day.

Wemberley Worried by Kevin Henkes Poor Wemberley worries about everything, and then she gets really worried when she is about to start school.

This E-Course offers you instant support from a Child Therapist.
You will get:
12 Videos that are quick and bite size

14 Exercises that will expand on the skills taught

6 Cheat Sheets that will serve as a reference
Along with the course you get:
Access to the instructor for ongoing support

Downloadable PDF versions of all lessons

Lifetime access to the course

More from Coping Skills for Kids about Anxiety in Children...

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Calming Anxiety - Coping Skills for Kids

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Inside: Kid tested strategies used by child therapists for calming anxiety, including ideas to calm down, books to read and videos that can help