Additional Resources
Poetry: What Hopes Means to Me
Poetry is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings. Nexus Family Healing youth write and share what hope means to them.
Creating Coping Skills
Arts and recreation activities build skills that can help young people by providing a sense of community, building connections, creating purpose and meaning, helping to process trauma and become more resilient. All important tools in preventing suicide and building resilient mental health in youth.
Art as a Therapeutic Tool
Youth at our agencies often engage in art projects as part of treatment, education, or recreation while in our care. Here are some inspiring pieces created by our talented youth.
Poetry Slam
From acrostic to free verse, a variety of poetic styles help us explore our feelings with freedom and confidence.
Daily Reflection
Use this sheet to check in on yourself and reflect on the things that support your mental health and well-being each day.
Finding Inspiration in Textiles
Knitting, embroidery, quilting, and other textile hobbies can be incredibly beneficial for mental health. The repetitive motions and focus create a calming experience that can reduce stress and anxiety. This form of art fosters creativity, offering a sense of accomplishment and pride as you see your work come together.
Supporting Your Student's Mental Health in the Classroom
When a student is facing a mental health challenge, teachers often walk a fine line of providing support while being cautious to not overstep boundaries. So, what should teachers do if they observe a student struggling with a mental health issue? This resource shares seven steps to best support the student and their family.
Finding Purpose
Andrea Arens is a Special Education Teacher at Nexus-Indian Oaks Family Healings’ Safe Harbor School, teaching Functional Academics, or Independent Living Skills, to her students. Skills that would normally be taught by family, friends, or in a public school. However, since many Nexus-Indian Oaks youth come from different circumstances and have not had a normal childhood, they have not learned these crucial skills for maintaining a job, getting a place to live, and interacting with different people every day.