Bright Futures

1. 
   Your mistakes don’t define you. Growing up in the world we live in today may seem hard. But our mistakes help us learn to overcome even harder obstacles. You’re stronger than you know. Our bodies and brains were built to survive stress. You can get through this.
2. Emotions are not permanent. Your body and mind are still developing and changing. This means your emotions are a lot more intense when you're younger. Know that you won’t feel like this forever and it will get better. Know that those around you feel similar emotions. Solutions are hard to see when you are in pain, but that doesn’t mean they are not there.
3. Life has so much to offer, until it's gone. You have purpose and meaning. You matter. And as you grow, so will your sense of purpose. Think of what you would lose if you weren't here anymore. Think of all the things or goals you want accomplish. Maybe you have always wanted to learn how to skate or even how you can’t wait to go college someday. Life is what you make it and the sky's the limit. But when it's gone, it's gone forever.
4. Take some time to take care of yourself. You can change how your brain thinks just by changing what your body is doing! Go for a walk or try painting something creative. Use deep breathing to calm your nerves. Watch your favorite movie for a good laugh. If that feels like too much, find a funny or uplifting video. Listen to some music to unwind. Big changes start with small steps and you can do it! For more ideas, check out this blog on how to get unstuck.
5. Your future isn't set in stone. You might feel powerless right now. Like nothing you do can change anything. But remember that you bring beauty, joy, and hope into the world. You never know when you will be the exact right person to make all the difference for someone else. The future may seem scary but take each day at a time and make the most out of it.
6. You are not alone. It's ok to feel lost and hopeless sometimes. Everyone does at some point in their life. But there are always people there for you. Instead of bottling up your feelings, express them to someone. You don't have to get through this alone. Think of those who care about you: your parents, siblings, or friends. If talking to those people feels too difficult, here are some other ways you can talk (or text) to someone. 

Additional Resources

• Teen Lifeline is a suicide prevention line for teens that is staffed by teens. Confide in another teen and receive help and resources. Call 602-248-8336 (TEEN) or 1-800-248-8336 (TEEN).
• TrevorLifeline is a crisis intervention and suicide prevention phone service for LGBTQ youth. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text Start to 678-678.
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (in English and Spanish). Call 988.
• Connect with a Phoenix Children’s Pediatrician.

Authors

Emma Pophal

Emma is a counselor at Teen Lifeline where she answers crisis calls made by teens in need. She also trains new counselors. She’s been on the Phoenix Children’s Teen Board for four years and an advocate for suicide prevention.

Carla Allan, PhD

Dr. Carla Allan joined the Barrow Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital in January of 2021 and currently serves as the Division Chief of Pediatric Psychology. Previously, she served as the Director of ADHD Programs at Children’s Mercy-Kansas City. Dr. Allan earned her doctorate degree in clinical psychology from Florida State University and completed her internship and fellowship training at Children’s Mercy-Kansas City.