Disasters, both local and global, are almost an every day occurrence. In addition, many families are affected by mental health issues, which youth may personally experience or can be indirectly impacted by the mental health challenges of family members. And, tragically, suicide is something that happens with enough frequency that very few teens are unaffected by its devastating influence.
Disaster Response
Ministering to Children After a Disaster (Grades K–5) – A number of options for ministering to elementary school-aged children (grades K-5) in the days immediately following a disaster.
Ministering to Youth After a Disaster (Grades 6–8) – A number of options for ministering to middle school-aged youth (grades 6-8) in the days immediately following a disaster.
Ministering to Teens After a Disaster (Grands 9–12) –A number of options for ministering to high school-aged youth (grades 9-12) in the days immediately following a disaster.
Ministering to Adults After a Disaster – The Episcopal Church’s official response to disasters around the world.
Fuller Youth Institute – A resource developed after the Parkland school shooting.
The Episcopal Church in America – An article originally written in response to the tragedy of Michael Brown in Ferguson, but its approach is still helpful and relevant. It’s easily adaptable and a good resource.
National Association of School Psychologists – centered on violence in school, but the guidelines are still very relevant for having conversations about violence anywhere.
Mental Health
Parent’s Guide to Depression and Anxiety
ok2talk.org – A community of teens and young adults who live with mental health problems. A great resource for teens and youth workers who want a glimpse inside the minds of their youth. Look online or call 1-800-273-TALK.
National Institute for Mental Health
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) – Good information on their website, and NAMI has support groups in all kinds of cities.
Valley Cities – A great resource for training and for teens in need with low income or no insurance who need to get help quickly
Mental Health by the Numbers for Teens (PDF)
Mental Health First Aid Training for Youth – Trainings may be available near you. The diocese also may offer this occasionally; these will be announced in the Across the Diocese newsletter.
Free Crisis Text Line – Available 24/7 for those more comfortable with texting. Text 741-741
Suicide Prevention and Response
Suicide Prevention Training
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Free Crisis Text Line – Available 24/7 for those more comfortable with texting. Text 741-741
