Family Time is essential for our youth’s mental health and wellness.
Consistent family time can help youth feel important and loved. By spending time together, youth can build confidence, increase communication, and build trust. Through the establishment and nurtured relationships, a safe space is developed. Forming these bonds can be a great method for identifying signs and symptoms of suicide.
Some examples of activities you can do with your child to promote a healthy and happy environment are:
- Cooking a family meal together
- Eating dinner together with no phones or tablets
- Helping your child with their homework to problem solve and work together
- Play a sport or exercise together
- Attend their sporting events to show support
- Engage in family talking circles to promote open communication
- Enjoy weekly family game nights
- Watch a family movie together
These are just a few examples, but the possibilities are endless. Ultimately, family time should be a positive and healthy way of spending time together. The positive outcomes are great for you and your family. By engaging and creating strong bonds, we can reduce risk factors, by increasing protective factors.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or having thoughts of suicide please contact:
TCC Behavioral Health 907.452.8251 • After Hours Crisis: 1.800.478.6682
Alaska Careline 1.877.266.4357 (HELP) • text “4help” to 839863 (Tuesday-Saturday 3pm to 11pm)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1.800.273.8255
For more information on suicide prevention contact:
Division of Wellness & Prevention Zhiiniidzelt’aey Project
Call us: 1.800.478.6822 • (907) 452.8251 Ext 3164
Email us: Prevention@tananachiefs.org
For more information visit websites:
Statewide Suicide Prevention Council Resources below:
http://dhss.alaska.gov/suicideprevention/Pages/default.aspx
Division of Behavioral Health below:
http://dhss.alaska.gov/dbh/Pages/default.aspx
Tanana Chief Conference Behavioral Health below:
https://www.tananachiefs.org/services/behavioral-health/
Tanana Chief Conference Wellness and Prevention below:
https://www.tananachiefs.org/services/wellness-prevention/
Suicide Prevention Lifeline below:
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/