The truth is that today’s youth are faced with very tough issues on a daily basis, which can become completely overwhelming for them and their parents.  When they were little, we could make everything better for them.  They looked up to us as parents, knowing we would always be there for them, to love them, and to protect them.  It can be absolutely heartbreaking for a parent to watch a child go down a road that leads to nowhere good.

Below are several links that you may find helpful. For guidance regarding any treatment or medication recommendation listed in these resources, please consult with a mental health professional or your physician.

Local Resources - To download a directory of services available to DeKalb County Residents, please click here.

• Kishwaukee Family YMCA
• Kishwaukee United Way
• Information about 40 Developmental Assets
• National Runaway Switchboard

Helpful Websites

• General Help – www.kidshealth.org
• Cyberbullying – www.netbullies.com
• Kid Safety – www.kidpower.org
• Empowered Parenting – www.empoweringparents.com

Additional Links

The following resources were created in partnership with Family Service Agency and Ben Gordon Center and may be helpful following a traumatic event:

• After The Trauma Helping Children Cope
• After the Trauma Talking to Your Child
• Children and Trauma What to Expect
• Coping With Loss.pdf
• Coping With Trauma – Young Adults
• Couples Under Stress
• Depression and Children
• Monitoring Your Child’s Access to Media
• Normal Responses to Trauma When to Seek Help
• Stress After Tragedy
• Surviving Trauma – A Guide for Older Adults
• Talking to Kids About Fear and Violence
• Talking to Kids About School Safety
• Trauma Related Stress – Warning Signs
• Understanding Your Family After Trauma Tips and Coping Strategies
• When Talking Isn’t Enough to Help Your Child