September is Suicide Prevention Month, an opportunity to focus on the prevalence of suicide in our communities and talk about steps we can all take to support mental health and suicide prevention. Learn more about the warning signs and what you can do to help.

Teachers have a profound impact in the classroom, both in how they educate and in how they support their students’ growth. 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?

Poetry is a great way to express your thoughts and feelings. Nexus Family Healing youth write and share what hope means to them.

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. 

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.

From acrostic to free verse, a variety of poetic styles help us explore our feelings with freedom and confidence.

Use this sheet to check in on yourself and reflect on the things that support your mental health and well-being each day.

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.

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.

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.