Mental & Behavioral Health Kit Lots of kids need help right now, but don’t know how to ask. Our pediatric experts share ways to support your child’s mental and emotional well-being every single day – from what to do when they’re struggling to how to build positive habits for a lifetime. For support navigating mental health resources, contact Connecticut Children’s Center for Care Coordination at 860.837.6200. If you feel your child is in crisis, or a danger to themselves or others, call 911. In Connecticut, you can also call 211 for emergency or crisis intervention. For free, confidential support from the National Suicide Prevention Life Line, call 1.800.273.8255 or text “HOME” to 741741. How, and When, to Talk to Your Child About DrugsStart the conversation now, so your child knows what to do if someone offers them drugs, and who to tell if they spot drug abuse at school. Learn More 6 Tips to Help Kids Deal With Peer PressureIt’s hard for kids (and adults) to think clearly in stressful situations. These tips will help your child stand up for what’s right, even for tough situations. Learn More 8 Mental Health Tips for ParentsTo be there for their kids, parents need to take care of their own mental health too. Here are strategies. Learn More How to Check On Your Child’s Mental HealthMany kids are struggling with anxiety or depression, but don’t know how to talk about it. You can help. Learn More Suicide Is the Second Leading Cause of Death for Kids as Young as 10. Here’s How Parents Can HelpSuicide is 100% preventable. Connecticut Children’s medical director of Emergency Behavioral Health services shares what parents can do to help. Learn More 10 Quick Tips to Help Your Child Reset From StressDuring moments of stress, there are some trusty methods for kids and teens – and parents – to calm themselves down. Learn More The Best Way to Prevent Youth Suicide? Talk About ItYouth suicide has been on the rise – and with the stress of the pandemic, suicide prevention is more important than ever. Dr. Steven Rogers, medical director of Emergency Behavioral Health services, shares important tips. Learn More Growing Resilient: What Your Child Needs to Get Through Tough TimesDespite how toxic the stress surrounding COVID-19 can be, there is good news: We can help our kids be resilient, even during these unusual (and surreal) times. Learn More Signs Your Child Might Be Depressed or Anxious – and What to Do NextIf you’re wondering how you’ll know when your child needs extra help – whether it’s from a counselor or physician, or just more support at home – read this. Learn More Self-Care for Kids: 4 Strategies to Help Your Child Manage StressEven when they’re sad, stressed or frustrated, kids can learn to trust that they’ll eventually feel better, and how to take care of themselves until they do. Learn More Mindfulness for Kids: 12 Calming Exercises to Teach Your ChildMindfulness helps focus and soothe a worried mind, and makes it easier for kids to control how they react to stress long-term. It’s an important key to resilience. Learn More Is Your Teen Stressed, Sad or Angry? They May Be Feeling GriefMany teens right now are feeling anxious and depressed – and a kind of grief. Pediatric psychologists Kelly Maynes, PsyD, and Lauren K. Ayr-Volta, PhD, give advice on how parents can support them. Learn More Managing Family Stress During COVID-19 For help managing stress – your child’s, and your own – Connecticut Children’s Injury Prevention Center experts provide advice. Learn More Is Your Child Struggling With Germ Phobia During COVID-19? We’re all concerned about getting sick right now. But if your child has an intense fear of germs, and trouble functioning at school or at home because of it, they may be dealing with some degree of germ phobia. Pediatric psychologist Melissa Santos, PhD, shares tips to support them. Learn More Who to Contact When Your Child Needs Behavioral Health SupportAnxiety. Eating disorders. Suicidal thoughts. Uncontrollable aggression. No matter what your child or family may be dealing with, it’s important to remember that you are not alone – and that there are resources to help. Learn More Free, Confidential Support for Families Experiencing Domestic ViolenceFor families experiencing domestic violence, Connecticut Children’s Injury Prevention Center shares how to get help. Learn More
