As part of its prevention services, Tykes & Teens is launching a new campaign to encourage youth to check in with friends who may be struggling.

“We want to give students useful tools that can help them reach out to friends and have a conversation about how they’re feeling and how they’re coping with stress, anxiety and depression,” said Tykes & Teens Director of Prevention Services Dorothy Oppenheiser. “We first need to know the signs to look for that could indicate a friend is struggling. Then how do you have that conversation with a friend? Often times starting a conversation is the hardest part. What should I say? Where do I start? Most importantly, if you think a friend is struggling, trust your gut. Let them know that they are not alone, that they matter, and that there is hope and help available.”

Tykes & Teens is distributing pocket-sized reference cards that include signs to look for, conversation starters and ways to support a friend, as well as additional resources available for help.

If you’re interested in receiving a set of the free pocket-sized resource cards, email monique@tykesandteens.org.

Thank you to Children’s Services Council of Martin County for supporting our prevention services.

Visit the Tykes & Teens website: www.TykesAndTeens.org/