Boys Town Highlights World Mental Health Day Support

Boys Town Highlights Access to Mental Health Support in Times of Crisis on World Mental Health Day

5 Expert Tips to Help Families Care for Kids’ Mental Health When Life Is Disrupted

Boys Town, Neb. (October 10, 2025) — In recognition of World Mental Health Day on October 10th, Boys Town is calling attention to this year’s theme, “Access to Services – Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,” and sharing practical steps families can take to support children and teens when a crisis, large or small, upends daily life. With more than a century of experience serving youth and families, Boys Town offers resources that help parents keep children connected to care, routines, and reassurance when they need it most.

Why it matters: Emergencies and disasters can heighten stress and disrupt access to care. Globally, nearly one in five people exposed to conflict experience a mental health condition, and large-scale disasters can leave nearly one-third of affected people with significant mental-health consequences according to the World Health Organization. In the U.S., the youth mental-health picture remains urgent: in 2023, the WHO states 40% of high school students reported persistent sadness and 20% seriously considered attempting suicide, and suicide was the second leading cause of death for people ages 10–34.

“When a crisis hits, whether it’s a natural disaster, community violence, or a family emergency, kids feel the aftershocks,” said Nick Zadina, Manager of Training and Quality Assurance at the Boys Town National Hotline. “Parents don’t have to do this alone. A simple plan, steady routines, and knowing where to turn for help can make a powerful difference.”

5 Expert Tips for Families During Disruptions

1. Make a simple family “mental health plan.” Write down who you’ll contact (pediatrician, school counselor, Boys Town National Hotline 800-448-3000; text VOICE to 20121; 988 for imminent risk), where you’ll reconnect if separated, and 2–3 coping skills your child already knows. Practice it like a fire drill so it feels familiar when stress is high.
2. Protect restorative routines. Keep sleep, meals, movement, and connection time as regular as possible—even in temporary housing. Small anchors like reading together or an evening walk signal safety to kids and lower stress for the whole family.
3. Talk openly about what kids are seeing and feeling. Ask open questions, offer age-appropriate facts, validate emotions, and correct rumors. Remind them of the concrete safety steps adults are taking.
4. Set healthy media habits together. Co-view news when you can, choose set times to check updates, and turn off autoplay and nighttime notifications. Keep devices out of bedrooms at least an hour before bedtime.
5. Practice quick calm-down skills every day. Teach slow belly breaths, the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise, and a reassuring phrase (“I’m safe; helpers are here”). Post the steps where everyone can see them so any caregiver can lead.

How Boys Town Can Help

• Boys Town National Hotline® (24/7): for confidential support for youth and parents; text VOICE to 20121.
• Telehealth Counseling: Secure virtual therapy for individuals and families.
• Common Sense Parenting®: Workshops that strengthen communication, coping, and behavior skills at home.
• Schools & Community Training: Evidence-based tools for educators and youth-serving partners to respond after crises.

This World Mental Health Day, Boys Town encourages parents, caregivers, schools, and community partners to prioritize access to support so children can feel safe, seen, and supported, no matter the circumstances. To schedule an interview with Boys Town experts, contact Jordan Weinandt at 531-355-1273 or Jordan.Weinandt@boystown.org.

About Boys Town:

For over a century, Boys Town has been a beacon of hope, transforming the lives of America's children and families through innovative youth, research, and healthcare programs.  Boys Town provides compassionate, research-proven education, prevention, training, and treatment for behavioral and physical problems in multiple locations throughout the United States, with a comprehensive array of resources and services.  In 2024, more than 4 million children and families across the United States were impacted by Boys Town programs. You can find more information about Boys Town online at www.boystown.org.