As the holidays approach—Thanksgiving only about 21 days away and Christmas following close behind—we’re surrounded by messages about this being “the most wonderful time of the year.” Many look forward to celebrations filled with family, food, gifts, and the comfort of loved ones. But for some, this season is anything but wonderful.

When crisis hits, it can be hard to know where to start. This guide is for everyone—individuals, organizations, churches, and businesses—who want to make a meaningful impact but need direction on how to respond effectively.

When I was in crisis, I discovered I had two options: drown in it or claw my way up and out. It’s easy to say “rebuild,” but when the floor drops out, “rebuild” sounds impossible. So let’s get real: no amount of advice erases pain. But if you’re looking for a way forward, this is it—one step at a time.

A crisis doesn’t always make the news—it’s any event or situation that disrupts someone’s life, whether it’s sudden or ongoing. Often, those in crisis are right around us, maybe next door. When we respond with compassion, we create a profound impact in their lives. Here’s how you can make a difference.

It’s easy to feel moved when a crisis hits the news—whether it’s a natural disaster, refugees fleeing war, or a celebrity suicide, headlines make us pause and care. But what happens after the cameras stop rolling and the headlines fade? Does the need just disappear?

Whether it’s walking through a war zone delivering food or sitting with someone who’s lost everything in a natural disaster, the truth remains the same—presence heals more than words ever will. When people are lost in grief, trauma, or crisis, words can often sound hollow. There’s a time for words, sure. But in those raw moments of brokenness, what people need most is someone who’s willing to sit with them in the mess.

In a world that often feels overwhelming, it’s easy to get caught up in our own struggles and challenges. But one of the most transformative things you can do for your emotional well-being is to step outside of yourself and serve others.

In a world where you can’t escape the digital landscape, how do you maintain your self-efficacy—your belief in your ability to get things done, to push through, to succeed? More importantly, how do you stop letting external validation define your internal worth? Let’s dive in.

We’re looking to expand our community of writers and invite people like YOU to join us in this important work. Whether you’ve personally experienced mental health struggles, walked alongside someone through difficult seasons, or have professional expertise, your voice matters.

The seasons are changing, and while the fall brings cool mornings, warm afternoons, and beautiful colors, winter is right around the corner. As I write this, we have about 81 days before winter officially begins, but the chill in the air is already signaling its arrival. For many, the colder months come with more than just icy temperatures and shorter days—they bring an unwelcome companion: seasonal depression.

Alright, parents, let’s cut to the chase: if you want your kids to grow up resilient, emotionally healthy, and able to handle the world out there, you cannot afford to be passive about their online safety. This is not a suggestion; it's a necessity.

Suicide. It’s a word people tend to avoid, isn’t it? It makes people uncomfortable, squirm in their seats, or change the subject. But let’s be real: avoiding the conversation doesn’t make the problem go away. It only makes it worse. And we’re not here for that. We’re here to face the hard stuff head-on, no bullshit, no pretending everything is fine when it’s not. So, let’s talk about it.

Pain sucks. There’s no way around it. Whether it’s emotional, physical, or mental—it can crush you. We all know the feeling of being stuck in the thick of it, like quicksand pulling you under. But here’s the reality: pain is inevitable. What isn’t inevitable is how you respond to it.

Resilience isn’t a skill you just "have" — it’s a muscle. You have to work it, feed it, and strengthen it just like your body. But here’s the problem: most people don’t realize their resilience is weak until life knocks them down, and they find out the hard way they have no strength left to get back up.

Myth: People with Mental Health Conditions Can Just "Snap Out of It."

Fact: Mental health issues often require professional treatment and support; they are not something one can simply will away.

Let’s get one thing straight: social media isn’t your therapist. It’s not your doctor. It’s not a substitute for real, professional help. But you’d never guess that, based on how it’s being used. Everyone with a phone and a platform suddenly thinks they’re an expert—especially when it comes to mental health. And we’re buying into it, because why? It’s easy. It’s right there. But here’s the kicker: it’s not helping. In fact, it’s doing more harm than good.

In April 2022, as I went through my morning routine, I turned on the news like I did most days. But this time, the story stopped me in my tracks—nearly 12 million Ukrainian refugees, half of whom were children…

As parents and educators, you want to see your students succeed—not just academically, but emotionally and mentally. That’s where we come in. Our organization has been working across America in junior highs, high schools, and universities to help students, parents, and educators develop resilience, self-efficacy, and mental and emotional health. Here’s why your school needs our program:

Let’s be honest: Life doesn’t pause while you’re obsessing over whether you should be further ahead by now. It’s happening right now, whether you’re fixated on getting skinnier, stronger, or happier. Growth is a great goal, achievement isn’t wrong, but if you’re letting the chase for improvement overshadow the here and now, you’re missing the point. And guess what? The universe doesn’t have a “pause” button.

Written By: A Survivor Who Believes in You