In January, John’s* sixth-grade teacher called ChildSavers’ Immediate Response team after he expressed thoughts of ending his own life. Within thirty minutes, John was met by a ChildSavers therapist in the principal’s office.
They talked about coloring and art as a way to feel better. Then, they tried breathing exercises and reflected on how it made him feel. Although John was smiling as he walked out the door, it was clear that long-term support was needed.
Over the following months, John and his therapist worked on developing coping skills when his emotions became too big to handle. Eventually, John asked his mother to join a therapy session and for the first time, they created a safe space for feelings and emotions.
John was able to more openly process his thoughts, feelings, and anger triggers associated with being bullied, losing his grandmother, and the grief of missing his father. As a result, John and his mother grew closer and learned to name the sources of their grief and anger together.
Because of you, John and his mother have the resources to support one another when it comes time to unpack and process years of past trauma. We all crave and need safety before we can do tough, hard work. You help make this challenging, but worthwhile work possible.
You can continue supporting children like John by becoming a Childhood Friend, ChildSavers’ monthly donor giving program.
*Details have been altered to protect the identity of this child.
