When Life Gets Heavy – Find Your Network
The power of connection and learning to build support systems that transform isolation into hope.
Every young person encounters times when academic demands, family pressures, or societal issues become overwhelming. You may be questioning your identity, facing discrimination, dealing with family conflicts, or feeling caught between different worlds. These challenges can feel even more overwhelming if you’re going through them alone.
The Shine Hope Company’s Shine Hope Framework offers helpful strategies.
- Nourishing Networks involve finding mentors, peers, and role models who can inspire and support you.
What Works → Building Your Nourishing Network
Practice listening without trying to fix others’ problems, and learn to be a “Hope Holder”—someone who offers support to those who are struggling.
It’s also important to have at least one person you can rely on during difficult times, such as a teacher, friend, counselor, pastor, or parent. Identify or name this person so you know who to turn to when life feels heavy.
Remember, hope thrives in community, not in isolation. Listening to others or having someone listen to you can turn feelings of despair into relief.