To the youth and young adults who are struggling with emotional and mental health challenges, we see you and we hear you. We want to help you take charge of your own recovery and wellness. Here are some ideas on just how to do that.
Building connections with others who have shared interests can be very helpful. Joining the Statewide Young Adult Leadership Council is a great way to connect with others with similar experiences and passions, enhance leadership skills, and to learn how to advocate for yourself and others. The council is made up of individuals ages 16-30 who have lived experience with mental illness, substance abuse, and/or systems involvement (foster care, child welfare, homelessness, juvenile justice, etc.). The council meets monthly in Nashville. Free lunch and mileage reimbursement are provided. Visit the Healthy Transitions Facebook page to see when and where the next meeting will be.
If you’d like some new innovative ways to treat your symptoms, check out this piece on using bullet journaling for recovery and wellness goals. Peruse this list of apps that will help you learn how to meditate, educate yourself, gain new coping skills, and receive support until your next appointment.
In addition, many writers have reflected on the idea of what they wish they could have told their younger self when it comes to their mental illness, substance abuse, search for employment, or experiences being in an abusive relationship or being sexually assaulted as a teenager. Sometimes, just the act of reading someone else describe what you have been through can be liberating.
There is also the healing power of sharing your own story. This should always be on your own terms and only when you’re ready to do so. When you are, we hope that you will find out just how freeing it can be when you dare to be vulnerable.
Want more resources? Visit the Healthy Transitions website for a list!
