by Kayla Myers, Peer Support Coordinator

August 19, 2025

As we navigate the challenges of today's world, from political tensions to economic struggles, it’s easy to forget that the most essential part of our humanity is a simple act of kindness. On Be Kind to Humankind Week, we are gifted an opportunity not only to reflect on the value of kindness but to practice and advocate for it in our everyday lives consistently. As someone who wears multiple hats, from a peer supporter role to an advocate for social change, this week holds deeper significance.

In the role of a peer supporter, I have witnessed the ripple effect of kindness. Whether I was helping a family navigate a mental health crisis, providing emotional support to a caregiver, or simply lending a listening ear to someone in need, the power of kindness is undeniable. It’s in the small gestures. A comforting word, a shared cup of coffee, a reassuring message can make all the difference. For human beings who are fighting silent battles or going through the toughest times, these moments of human connection can be a lifeline.

However, the real challenge we face is extending that kindness beyond our immediate circles, especially in times when it feels like the world is divided. Right now, as a country, we are experiencing deep social and political division, an ongoing public health crisis, and economic instability. We are struggling to keep our heads above water, and many are feeling the weight of uncertainty and fear.

In my eyes, this is precisely the time when kindness is most needed.

As an advocate for mental health and social change, I often find myself pushing for policy shifts and societal reforms that prioritize the well-being of all people. But advocacy doesn’t stop in the halls of government or on social media platforms. It starts with each of us, in our homes, neighborhoods, and communities. The most significant change often begins with small, personal acts of kindness.

We are seeing what can feel like an overwhelming number of issues in the world right now: injustices, scrutiny for speaking out about the wrong that is being done daily, the rise of mental health struggles, and more. But I can only hope, in these moments of chaos, that kindness can act as a beacon of hope, a reminder that there is good in the world despite the noise. With life experience and with my work as a peer supporter, I’ve seen how simple acts can spark real, tangible change.

Kindness isn’t just about being nice; it’s about advocating for justice, lifting others up, and standing together in the face of adversity. It’s about showing up for the people who need us most. And right now, as a country, we need each other more than ever.

What can be done? What can you do? How do you get started? I am so glad you asked! Here is a simple list of ideas that I hope will help spark something within you so you can keep implementing small acts of kindness every day:

1. Listen Without Judgment
   Sometimes, the most powerful form of advocacy is simply being a compassionate listener. When we listen to each other’s stories without judgment or preconceived notions, we validate people’s experiences. Listening is the first step in offering support and understanding.
2. Support Mental Health Initiatives
   Mental health is at the forefront of our collective struggles today. As a peer supporter, I know the importance of advocating for more accessible, equitable, and compassionate mental health services. Kindness means standing with those who need help and fighting for resources that can change their lives.
3. Create Safe Spaces for Dialogue
   In a divided world, we need spaces where people can discuss their differences with respect and empathy. Organizing community discussions or engaging in open dialogues about current events can foster understanding, dissolve fears, and build bridges where walls once stood.
4. Leading with Empathy in Policy
   Whether advocating for healthcare, education, or economic support, it's critical to approach these issues with empathy. Policies that impact human beings should be crafted with a deep understanding of the diverse challenges people face. A kinder, more equitable society requires us to work from a place of care and compassion, not just statistics and numbers.
5. Model the Change You Want to See
   One of the most powerful ways we can spread kindness is by modeling it in our own actions. Whether it's in our families, at work, or in our communities, showing kindness in the way we interact with others sets the tone for those around us. Kindness is contagious. The more we practice it, the more it will spread.

 We are all living through trying times, but these times do not define us. What will define us is how we respond. As individuals and as a collective society, we can choose kindness, not just on Be Kind to Humankind week, but every day. Kindness in the face of adversity can heal wounds, build communities, and drive us toward a more just and compassionate world.

As someone who has walked alongside my peers in their most vulnerable moments, I can attest to the transformative power of kindness. It is the glue that holds us together when everything else feels like it's falling apart. And if there’s one thing I know, it’s that we are all capable of spreading kindness in ways that create lasting change.

So, this Be Kind to Humankind week, I encourage you to reach out. Reach out to a neighbor, a friend, a stranger, or a family member. Let them know they’re seen, heard, and valued. Advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of ALL people. And, perhaps most importantly, remember that kindness doesn’t just change the world, it heals it.

Kindness is not just a gesture, it’s a movement. As a peer supporter, as an advocate, and as a human being, I believe in the power of kindness to heal, unite, and empower us to create a better tomorrow. Let's make this Be Kind to Humankind week the start of something bigger. Let's make it a reminder that, no matter how dark the world may seem, kindness will always be the light that guides us home.

(Edited and enhanced using ChatGPT)

by Kayla Myers, Peer Support coordinator

July 21, 2025

Every year, National Parents’ Day comes and goes, and honestly, I didn’t even know it existed until a few years ago. There are no balloons or wrapped gifts. No themed parties, school plays, or glittery cards like we see on Mother’s Day or Father’s Day. And honestly? That’s what makes it feel more real to me.

Parenting doesn’t usually look like a greeting card. It’s unfiltered. It’s behind the scenes. It’s deeply personal. It’s also the hardest, but most sacred, thing I’ve ever done.

Parenting is early mornings with tired eyes and late nights filled with worry. It’s asking myself, Did I say the right thing? Was I too soft? Too strict? Too distracted? Too emotional? Am I giving them enough? Am I enough? It’s making a thousand decisions a day and second-guessing at least half of them. It’s pouring from a cup that sometimes feels empty, and still showing up the next day with whatever strength I can find. Because their love keeps me going.

And yet, even in the chaos, there is so much beauty.

There’s laughter that echoes through the house, sometimes because of something silly, sometimes for no reason at all. There are milestones—and messy milestones. Little victories that might go unnoticed by the world, but mean everything to us. There are those quiet, sacred moments when I look at my kids and catch a glimpse of the people they’re becoming, and I think, “I get to be their mom.” That thought alone has carried me through some of the toughest days.

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual. I learned that fast the day I brought my oldest home from the hospital. And no two parenting journeys look the same. There are seasons of pure joy, and there are seasons that feel like sheer survival. I’ve had to learn to let go of the idea that I need to do it all on my own. I’ve leaned on the support of other parents. I’ve asked for help, even when it was hard. And I’ve reminded myself that perfection isn’t the goal, presence is.

So this month, in honor of National Parents’ Day, I want to pause and recognize all of us who are simply doing the best we can.

Whether you’re a birth parent, adoptive parent, foster parent, bonus parent, grandparent raising grandchildren, or a chosen parent, your love matters. Your consistency matters. YOU matter.

Let’s keep building each other up. Let’s offer grace instead of guilt. Let’s remind ourselves—and each other—that even on the hardest days, we are doing something deeply meaningful.

Because at the heart of parenting lies a quiet, powerful truth: we are shaping lives with our love. It may be messy. It may be imperfect. But it is real and it is enough.

From one parent to another: Happy National Parents’ Day. You’re doing better than you think.

With love and solidarity,
A fellow mom who gets it

(Edited and Enhanced by ChatGPT)

Written by Kayla Myer
Edited and Enhanced by ChatGPT

February 25, 2025

Every year as winter approaches, I start to dread the days ahead. Even before summer or fall has ended, I find myself mourning their passing while still living in those seasons. I know the days will soon grow shorter and the nights longer, and I brace myself for the arrival of the infamous "winter blues." Whether it's the colder weather, the lack of sunlight, or the post-holiday slump, this time of year can be particularly challenging for my mental health. As a peer supporter, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside others through difficult seasons, and I know firsthand how real and heavy these feelings can be. But the good news? We don’t have to face them alone.

The "winter blues" is a common term used to describe the seasonal dip in mood that many people experience. For some, it can manifest as mild sadness, fatigue, or irritability. For others, it may develop into something more severe, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression triggered by seasonal changes. While the severity varies, the struggle is real, and acknowledging it is the first step toward finding relief (generated using ChatGPT).

For myself, once I started to understand how the “winter blues” manifested in me, I was able to implement my wellness tools into moments that felt daunting. Over the years, I’ve learned that small, intentional actions can make a big difference. Here are some approaches that have helped both myself and those I support:

1. Embrace the Light

Sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating our mood. If you can, try to get outside during daylight hours, even if it’s just for a short walk. If natural sunlight is scarce, consider using a light therapy lamp, which can help mimic the benefits of natural light and improve mood.

2. Stay Active

Exercise is a powerful mood booster. It doesn’t have to be intense, even gentle movements like yoga, stretching, or a short dance session can help release endorphins and combat sluggishness.

3. Connect with Others

Isolation often worsens the winter blues. Reaching out to my support system helps me stay grounded. Even a simple text, phone call, or video chat can lift my spirits and remind me that I’m not alone.

4. Nourish Your Body and Mind

What we eat can impact how we feel. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods into my diet, including vitamins, and whole foods that fuel my body. Equally important, nourish your mind. I practice mindfulness, gratitude, or journaling to process my emotions.

5. Create Comforting Rituals

Small moments of joy can make a huge difference. Whether it’s lighting a scented candle, wrapping up in a warm blanket with a good book or watching a show, or listening to uplifting music, I try to find little ways to bring warmth and comfort into my daily routine.

6. Seek Support When Needed

I don’t take these helpful tips lightly because I know how hard it can be to implement them when my brain feels heavy. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, the weight of the winter blues can feel overwhelming. And that’s okay. If your feelings persist or become too difficult to manage, don’t hesitate to seek support. There is strength in asking for help.

One of the most important things I’ve learned as a peer supporter is the power of shared experiences. No matter how isolating the winter blues may feel, you are not alone in this struggle. There is a community of people who understand, care, and are willing to walk this journey with you. So, as we navigate these colder, darker months together, let’s lean on one another, embrace small victories, and remember that brighter days are ahead. Spring always follows winter, and in the meantime, we can find warmth in connection, self-care, and hope. If you’re feeling down this season, reach out. To a friend, a peer supporter, a mental health professional, or whoever is your support system. You deserve support, and you are worth the effort it takes to care for yourself.

by Beth Ayers, Family Support Lead

November 5, 2024

November is National Family Caregiver Month. On Caregiver Action Network’s website, they share the importance of recognizing caregivers. Celebrating Family Caregivers during National Family Caregivers Month enables all of us to:

• Raise awareness of family caregiver issues
• Celebrate the efforts of family caregivers
• Educate family caregivers about self-identification
• Increase support for family caregivers
• Reduce feelings of isolation”

As a parent/caregiver to 2 children with behavioral health challenges, I know first-hand how easy it can be to neglect my own wellness. Finding time and energy for self-care seemed impossible. If I wasn’t running my child to school and doctor’s appointments and therapies, I was cleaning the house and cooking and working. Being a parent to a child with extra medical needs also left me emotionally drained. I worried about their health and their future. I was hurting because my child was hurting. I was grieving the loss of dreams. The chronic stress experienced by parents and caregivers of children with any type of special healthcare needs can take a toll on their physical and mental health. We have all heard the flight attendant’s instruction to put our own oxygen mask on first before assisting our child or anyone else. This applies to parents and caregivers. If we don’t take care of our wellness first, we will not be at our best to care for our child and their wellness.

An email I received from Mental Health America (MHA) states, “November is National Family Caregivers Month — a time to celebrate the incredible dedication of family members who provide essential care for loved ones managing health challenges, including mental health conditions.” As a parent caring for a child with mental health conditions, I often felt blamed, overlooked, and unappreciated. I also judged myself and struggled with constant regret in my choices as a parent. As I began practicing self-care, I was slowly able to appreciate my dedication to my child and their health. I recognized I was doing the best I could, which was all I could ask of myself. As my wellness improved so did my ability to respond instead of reacting, my compassion grew, I was better at setting healthy boundaries, and I had more to give without feeling resentful.

Caregiver Action Network writes, “During 2024 National Family Caregivers Month, we focus on empowering caregivers to self-identify and access the resources they need to succeed. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With the proper support and tools, you can continue to provide care while taking care of yourself.” Family Peer Support, whether formal or informal, is an amazing resource. Having someone to talk to who has a shared lived experience and will walk with you on the journey is powerful. You can find a Family Peer Supporter on Montana’s Peer Network’s website under the For Parents/Caregivers tab. Montana’s Peer Network also has a Caregiver Wellness training on their virtual training platform. Sign up for free.

On October 31, 2024, President Biden released A Proclamation on National Family Caregivers Month, 2024. In part it reads, “Family caregivers are the backbone of our Nation, making tremendous sacrifices to be there for the people who need and cherish them most.  This month, we honor their selfless love and courage, and we recommit to getting them the support they deserve.” You can find free resources from Caregiver Action Network for caregivers:

• Caregiver Help Desk – Access free, personalized support for your caregiving challenges.

• 10 Tips for Family Caregivers – Learn practical strategies for managing caregiving stress.
• Take Care of Your Mental Health – Use our free depression screener to monitor your emotional well-being.
• Connect with Other Family Caregivers – Join our Caregiver Action Network Community to share experiences and receive support.
• Share Your Caregiver Story – Inspire others by sharing your caregiving journey.
• Take Advantage of Resources from the I Care… Nonprofit Partners

MHA hosted a webinar Holding on for others: Caregiving, chronic illness, and self-care last year. You can watch the recording here.

Another great event happening this month is free streaming of the documentary “Unseen: How We’re Failing Caregivers & Why It Matters.” It will be available every weekend in November. (Register here) Caregiverdoc.com explains, “The UNSEEN documentary exists to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities, and increase support for caregivers.”

MHA shares that National Family Caregiver Month is “a time to celebrate the contributions of caregivers, provide them with tools that they need, and continue to advocate for individuals with mental illness.” Most importantly, this month (and every month), I hope you, the caregiver, know you are not alone. Montana’s Peer Network is here to support you and walk beside you as we raise our children with special healthcare and behavioral health needs, love and care for them, and fiercely advocate for them. You are not alone. Take care of yourself, too. You are worth it.

Generated by AI, Edited by Beth Ayers, Family Support Lead

May 7, 2024

Strategies for Enhancing Mental Health in Children

In the complex landscape of mental health, resilience stands out as a beacon of hope and strength. For children dealing with mental health challenges, cultivating resilience is key. Resilience equips children with the ability to navigate adversity, bounce back from setbacks, and thrive despite life's inevitable challenges. As a mom of two fabulous children with mental health challenges, I often feel unequipped to help them navigate these challenges. If I had a magic wand and could, “poof,” free them from their mental health struggles, I would. I would give anything to take away their pain and my hurt that comes from watching my kids go through that pain. The following are tangible skills our kids can learn to increase resilience. Resilience in turn fosters their capacity for emotional well-being and success.

Resilience is not a fixed trait but rather a dynamic process influenced by various factors, including genetics, environment, and personal experiences. At its core, resilience encompasses the capacity to adapt positively in the face of adversity. Demonstrating resilience through adversity is not about avoiding stress or hardship, but rather about learning to cope effectively and grow stronger as a result. Children who possess resilience are better equipped to navigate challenges, form healthy relationships, and pursue their goals with determination and optimism.

Building Self-Esteem and Self-Efficacy:

A fundamental aspect of resilience-building in children with mental health challenges is fostering self-esteem and self-efficacy. Positive self-esteem provides a solid foundation for resilience, enabling children to maintain a sense of self-worth and confidence in their abilities. Encouraging children to recognize their strengths, celebrate their achievements, and embrace their uniqueness helps bolster self-esteem. Similarly, promoting self-efficacy—the belief in one's ability to achieve goals—empowers children to tackle challenges with a sense of agency and optimism.

Cultivating Social Support Networks:

Social support plays a crucial role in nurturing resilience in children with mental health challenges. Strong, supportive relationships with family members, friends, teachers, and other trusted individuals provide a buffer against stress and adversity. Encouraging children to cultivate meaningful connections and seek help when needed fosters a sense of belonging and security. Helping children learn effective communication and interpersonal skills enhances their ability to navigate social interactions and build supportive relationships. I have found help with this through individual and family therapy.

Developing Coping Skills:

Equipping children with effective coping skills is essential for resilience-building. Coping skills empower children to manage stress, regulate emotions, and adapt to change constructively. Teaching children mindfulness techniques, relaxation exercises, and problem-solving strategies equips them with valuable tools for managing challenging situations. Additionally, encouraging healthy lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and nutritious diet promotes overall well-being and resilience. Other coping skills can include hobbies, music, art, talking to someone, labeling feelings, reading, asking for help, journaling, spending time with friends, or playing with a pet.

Fostering Emotional Regulation:

Emotional regulation is a cornerstone of resilience, enabling children to navigate intense emotions without becoming overwhelmed. Teaching children to identify and label their emotions, express themselves constructively, and regulate their reactions fosters emotional resilience. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises and guided imagery, can help children cultivate awareness of their emotions and develop healthy coping mechanisms. Creating a safe and supportive environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings without fear of judgment is essential for emotional resilience. Counselors, teachers, pastors, and support groups often provide this.

Encouraging Growth Mindset:

Instilling a growth mindset in children with mental health challenges is instrumental in fostering resilience. A growth mindset emphasizes the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort and perseverance. Encouraging children to embrace challenges, learn from failure, and persist in the face of setbacks cultivates resilience. By reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning, children develop resilience-building attitudes that empower them to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. I have heard it said, “If you’re not failing, you’re not growing.”

Promoting Meaningful Engagement:

Engaging children in activities that align with their interests, passions, and values creates a sense of purpose and resilience. Whether through sports, arts, hobbies, or community service, meaningful engagement provides children with opportunities to develop skills, build confidence, and connect with others. Encouraging children to pursue activities that bring them joy and fulfillment nurtures their resilience and fosters a sense of agency and purpose.

In the journey of navigating mental health challenges, resilience serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards healing and growth. By empowering children with the skills and attitudes to bounce back from adversity, we can help them thrive despite the challenges they face. Through building self-esteem, cultivating social support networks, developing coping skills, fostering emotional regulation, encouraging a growth mindset, and promoting meaningful engagement, we can equip our children with the resilience they need to navigate life's ups and downs with strength and resilience.

by Andi Daniel, Technology Coordinator

December 26, 2023