We all go through hard times with stress being a normal, even positive part of daily life. But, what happens when the stress becomes too much for a person to handle? Recognizing when a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis is vital in getting them the proper care they need. Whether you’re experiencing it yourself or supporting someone else, knowing what a mental health crisis is, how to recognize one, and how to respond, can be life saving for yourself and your loved ones. 

As a parent, guardian, or caregiver, it’s crucial to understand the difference between discipline and abuse. Effective discipline teaches children right from wrong, but it's essential to recognize when discipline crosses the line into abuse, which can have lasting physical, emotional, and psychological effects on children. Learn ways to implement effective discipline into the home that is calm, consistent, and intentional, not humiliating or hurtful.

April recognizes National Stress Awareness Month. While stress is a common topic in the workplace, it is often overlooked in discussions around caregiving – whether that is for new parents, an adult caring for an elderly family member, or a professional in the caregiving field. If you are looking for ways to support a caregiver in your life, here are some actions you can take to help ease their stress and be an important resource for them.

Self-Harm can be a difficult subject to talk about, but it's important parents and caretakers are educated on what it is, signs to look for, and the difference between self-harm and suicidal ideation. 

Samantha lost her parental rights to her two oldest children because of her substance abuse. After her third child was born and placed in foster care, Samantha immediately checked herself into a 90-day treatment facility. Take a look at one mom's remarkable journey of reuniting with her family.

When Denver Ritz-Vorwald relocated to Austin, Minnesota, for his role at Hormel Foods, he felt something was missing. Previously, he had led a nonprofit youth leadership institute in Des Moines, Iowa, which contracted with over 30 public and private high schools. Denver has a deep passion for mentoring and nurturing untapped potential, particularly among teenagers. For over two years now, Denver has volunteered weekly (or more) on campus, becoming a dedicated volunteer for the Nexus-Gerard youth and a treasured asset to the team.

You’ve taken the first big step into understanding your child’s mental health. With a diagnosis of depression by a mental health professional, it may not feel like a “congratulatory” moment, but it’s an action you and your child should be proud of – asking for help is the first step in any healing journey. After the diagnosis, it’s key to create a safe, consistent, and supportive home that fosters healing and growth. Here are some actions you can take to start the process. 

We’ve assembled a bingo sheet for you and your family to inspire random acts of kindness in your household. Acts of kindness cause a ripple effect – starting them in the home can cause others in your household to pass them along to others. Work individually or as a family to complete the bingo sheet.

When Olivia entered foster care as a young child, she faced a future filled with uncertainty. Separated from her biological family, she struggled to trust others and found herself moving between different homes. After receiving mental health support through a residential facility, Olivia found hope through Nexus-PATH Family Healing’s Independent Living Services in North Dakota.

If you or someone you know experiences painful memories this time of year, check out some of our blogs below to read different perspectives on relationships, learn ways to move past those difficult times, and learn how to continue to give and accept love from others.