• Consult with your child’s doctor or pediatrician. Describe what concerns you and ask for recommendations. They may provide a referral for a Mental Health Professional. Contact key people at your child’s school. Who should you reach out to? The School Counselor is a great resource to start if you aren’t sure.  Teachers can also provide insight such as changes or concerns in your child’s behavior. Ask: Are they noticing similar concerns? Crisis help lines are available:

• National Suicide Prevention Line: Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for free 24-hour help

• Crisis Text Line - A free, 24/7 text line for people in crisis. Text HOME to 741741   

• If you or your child are in immediate danger, please call 911. Remember: You are not alone!  Reach out for help. Have a safety concern for a student or school? Contact  911, DHR, or an Administrator at your local school. 

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

• • • 1. 1. 1. National Children’s Advocacy Center - Prevention and intervention services for children and families. 

  • Supporting Children’s Mental Health: Tips for Parents and Educators

  • Talking to your teen about mental health 

  • National Institute on Mental Health -  Resources for child and adolescent mental health. 

    • The Teen Brain: 7 things to know 

    • Children and Mental Health 

  • Mentalhealth.gov - What to look for and how to talk about mental health.

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness

    • Mental Health Fact Sheets from NAMI on different mental health conditions 

  • Mental Health America 

  • National PTA Healthy Minds: Prioritizing Mental Health

  • Child Mind Institute Resources for Families 

    • 44 Children’s Books About Mental Health 

  • Military Child Resources for mental health 

  • Not One More: Resources on Addiction 

  • Suicide Prevention Resources:

    • The Jason Foundation - Information on youth suicide

    • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention 

    • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline

    • Information in Alabama