Blogs

How Schools Can Use Mental Health Data to Improve Student Wellness

The Erika's Lighthouse Data Center is a free resource designed to empower school administrators and educators to make data-informed decisions regarding student well-being....

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How Parents Can Respond When a Child Says “I’m Fine” but Isn’t

Many parents have heard it before. You ask how your child is doing, and the response comes quickly and quietly: “I’m fine.” But something feels off. Maybe their mood has...

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What are the New K-12 Mental Health Learning Standards and Why They Matter for Every Student

By Britnee Weatherspon, Ed.D. The youth mental health crisis is a serious challenge, but it is one we can address by working together. Research from the World Health...

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How to Help Children or Teens with Low Self-Esteem: Strategies That Work

Self-esteem plays a crucial role in a young person’s emotional, social, and academic development. When children or teens struggle with low self-esteem, they may experience...

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How to Recognize Depression in Teens: A Guide for Parents and Teachers

Adolescence is a time of immense growth, but for many, it is also when symptoms of depression first appear. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in...

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Simple Breathing Techniques Teachers Can Use in the Classroom

6 Simple Breathing Techniques for the Classroom 1. The 4-7-8 Technique Popularized by Dr. Andrew Weil, this method acts as a "natural tranquilizer" for the nervous system.

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How Social Media Impacts Teen Mental Health

In today’s digital age, social media is a central part of daily life for teenagers. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and X (formerly Twitter) offer vital spaces...

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How Physical Activity Improves Teen Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing

How Physical Activity Affects the Teenage Brain When teens engage in physical activity—whether it’s dancing, basketball, or walking the dog—their bodies release...

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Shining Brighter Together: Introducing Beacons of Hope+

Joining a Community of Action

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How Can Schools Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month in May?

What is the Positivity Pledge? The Positivity Pledge is a schoolwide awareness campaign by Erika’s Lighthouse designed for Mental Health Awareness Month in May. It is a...

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How Can I Tell if My Teen is Depressed or Just Being a Teen?

Understanding Adolescent Depression Adolescence is a period of significant physical and emotional change, which can sometimes make it difficult to distinguish between...

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The Ripple Effect: How Your Stories Power Youth Mental Health

A Shared Mission for Every Student At Erika’s Lighthouse, we sit at the intersection of professional educators and passionate supporters. While our donors provide the fuel,...

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