Published on October 15th, 2025
Climate Mental Health Network’s found that parents who take action with their children report lower anxiety and higher hope. But “action” doesn’t necessarily mean becoming full-time activists. It means weaving climate awareness into daily family life in manageable ways. The research foundation: In a 2024 survey of 16,000 US Gen Zers, 86% reported that they […]
Published on October 15th, 2025
Every parent of a climate-aware child knows this moment. One parent in Oregon shared: “My oldest daughter, who’s eight, is having climate distress. She’s up at night with anxiety about, you know, ‘the Earth is dying and other kids don’t care as much as I care.’” A survey of 10,000 teenagers worldwide showed that 75% […]
Published on October 15th, 2025
Isolation is one of the biggest risk factors for mental health struggles in teens and adults alike. But many people don’t realize what their community might actually look like until they map it out visually. The core principle: Community isn’t just about the quantity of relationships, it’s about recognizing the web of connection that already […]
Published on October 15th, 2025
Trust is one of those words everyone uses but few people define clearly. What builds trust for you might be different from what builds trust for your teen. When these definitions don’t match, trust breaks down even when everyone has good intentions. The core principle: Trust isn’t built in dramatic moments, it’s built in daily […]
Published on October 15th, 2025
Communication breaks down most often when people feel uncertain or vulnerable. Instead of saying what they mean, they shut down, get defensive, or talk around the real issue. The core principle: Uncertainty is a normal part of relationships. When you name it together, you can work through it instead of letting it create distance. The […]
Published on October 15th, 2025
Hope theory research emphasizes the importance of both emotional well-being and goal-directed thinking. Regular practices that maintain positive feelings and connect daily actions to future aspirations can strengthen Hope over time. Studies show that individuals who regularly engage in goal setting and future-oriented thinking demonstrate better emotional regulation and resilience during setbacks.[1] Hope research shows […]
Published on October 15th, 2025
Every young person knows the feeling when life problems pile up, and nothing seems manageable. Hope research provides evidence-based strategies for moving from feeling stuck to seeing possibilities again. Using the skills from the Shine Hope Company’s Shine Framework can help. What doesn’t work: Telling yourself “just think positive” or “others have it worse.” This […]
Published on October 15th, 2025
Your teen just told you about a problem. Your instinct is probably to jump in with questions and solutions because you want to help. The Kids Mental Health Foundation’s guidance on problem-solving suggests a different approach: ask for their ideas first. Before offering your questions and advice, ask them to problem solve. You can ask […]
Published on October 15th, 2025
Every parent knows the “I’m fine” that means absolutely nothing is fine. The Kids Mental Health Foundation shares what actually gets kids talking again, and it’s not what most of us think. What doesn’t work: “I know you’re not fine. What’s really going on?” This puts kids on the defensive and they’ll double down on […]