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Anxiety is one of the most common emotional challenges children face, and it can show up in many ways—from avoidance and irritability to physical symptoms like stomachaches. Fortunately, books can be powerful tools to help children understand and cope with anxious feelings. Here are five titles from Boys Town Press that support emotional regulation and resilience in young readers. Stress Stinks by Bryan Smith Amelia feels overwhelmed by the pressures of school, sports, and responsibilities …

It’s that time of year again! Crisp mornings and earlier sunsets signal more than just the end of summer. They also mean back-to-school shopping, homework help, and the start of fall sports.  In many ways, school is like a team sport. You have players and supportive leaders who work together to create a culture of learning, growth, and success. But just like in sports, not every player follows the rules of good conduct. In fact, bullying, whether verbal, physical, relational, or cyber …

Our previous posts identified factors related to the current mental health crisis and hinderances to receiving proper treatment. In this final segment of our series, we will discuss potential steps to support the young people in our own circles.“’Cause you lured me, and you hurt me, and you taught me. You caged me, and then you called me crazy. I am what I am ‘cause you trained me.”-Taylor Swift, Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me?Untrain self-defeating thoughts and behaviors, while simultane …

In the first segment of our series, we identified factors that have impacted the mental health of young people. Next, we will discuss hinderances to mental health support for our youth. As previously mentioned, Taylor Swift’s lyrics are captivating and relatable. Her words seem to clarify complicated emotions and illuminate otherwise obscure innerworkings for many of her fans. In addition to this unique ability to connect listeners with their inner selves, the community that has …

The topic of Taylor Swift’s artistic merit seems to be as divisive as the great cilantro debate (a flavor to be savored, or a soapy abomination to the herb world?), yet critics and fans alike have praised the inspired verses of her latest album “The Tortured Poets Department” (TTPD).Celebrated for their vulnerability and relatability, her latest lyrics, capture many of the current mental health struggles felt by today’s youth. Her words speak to numerous and seemingly unrelated struggles …

This article was originally shared on momaha.com.Depression affects kids in a variety of ways and can be situational or a constant in their life.There are a few things parents can do to help keep depression at bay and help their kids through this challenging time. Here are a few tips:1. Implement routine and schedules for your kids throughout the day.For example, try to eat meals and snacks at similar times during the day. If your kids are school-age, implement a study hour at the same time each …

Back to school. Sometimes it’s a time of hope and excitement. Sometimes, it’s a time of anxiety and dread. “Will they like me?” “What if the work is too much?” “What if I can’t handle it all this time?” No, I’m not talking about students – though they are likely experiencing similar emotions. I’m talking to school counselors. As counselors, we’re not immune to that weird conglomeration of emotions that accompany the b …

Children and teenagers have been spending more time online during the COVID-19 pandemic to attend classes, connect with their peers, and entertain themselves. As a result, a lot of kids and teens are more active on social media and apps. This allows them to connect to a wide network of people, which unfortunately, may also expose them to cyberbullies. According to a report on cyberbullying published by Verywell Family, cases of cyberbullying have increased by 70% since the pandemi …

Five tips for teaching kids how to cope with and react effectively to rumors.Have you ever been targeted by a rumor? I have! In seventh grade, I accidentally burned my neck with a curling iron. The burn resembled a hickey. I tried to cover it up with makeup, but it took less than two hours for a rumor to circulate at school that I had made out with someone, was easy and loose and was most likely pregnant! Growing up in an extremely conservative area, I lost most of my friends by the end of …

When it comes to mental health, there is no ONE right approach or treatment. Every story is different; every child is different. Helping a child or teen work through their mental health issues extends outside of the home. Teachers and counselors are an essential part of this journey. The following is a Q & A with Dr. Dan Daly, current Director of Youth Care Emeritus and former Executive Vice President and Director of Youth Care at Boys Town. This article originally appeared …