Content Notice: This article mentions anxiety, academic pressure, and briefly addresses school safety and warning signs of suicide risk. If you or your child are experiencing a crisis, you will find 24/7 support lines at the end of the article.

Going back to school is no longer just about academic performance.

Today, our children worry about fitting in, social media, their physical safety, and how to manage all of these pressures at the same time.

Many parents in Massachusetts will recognize this scene immediately.

It is no coincidence that this time of year can bring so much anxiety.

Many students return to a new school year without the social tools they once took for granted.

This is especially true in a context where constant comparison on social media and the pressure to perform academically and socially weigh more than ever.

Understanding this is not a reason for alarm. It is the first step toward providing better support.

When we understand what is really happening, we can respond with the right tools instead of simply waiting for it to pass.

What the Numbers Say

This is not an isolated perception.

According to the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), the most recent nationally representative study:

• 39.7% of U.S. high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness during the previous year.
• 28.5% described their mental health as poor during the month before the survey.
• 20.4% seriously considered attempting suicide.
• 77% use social media several times a day or more — and frequent use is associated with a higher risk of bullying, persistent sadness, and suicidal thoughts, according to the same study.
• 9% of students reported being threatened or injured with a weapon at school during the previous year.

At the local level, Boston Public Schools had already recorded a 9% increase in feelings of sadness or hopelessness among high school students in 2021.

This represents nearly twice the national increase during the same period.

Boston Public Schools is the only Massachusetts school district that administers this survey consistently.

There is not yet a more recent, comparable statewide figure for Massachusetts, but the local trend is moving in the same direction as the national trend.

These numbers are not meant to alarm families, but rather to confirm something many parents may already sense at home.

If your son or daughter comes home from school quieter, more irritable, or less willing to talk, they are not exaggerating and they are not alone.

It is part of a pattern that schools, pediatricians, and organizations such as NAMI are seeing across the country.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is the largest grassroots nonprofit organization in the United States dedicated to mental health, with local affiliates across the country.

Through helplines, free support groups, and educational guides, NAMI supports both people living with mental health conditions and their families.

NAMI is also the source behind several of the resources we share in this article.

The Invisible Weight of Every September

Many students return to the classroom without having had real time to process an entire summer of social changes, and it shows.

Getting back into routines can be difficult. Reconnecting with classmates can be difficult. Asking for help without feeling that it makes them look weak can be difficult.

On top of this comes a layer of constant pressure that did not weigh as heavily in the past: constant comparison on social media.

It is not just the math test that causes anxiety. It is seeing on a phone, minute by minute, how everyone else seems to be doing.

This is exposure that does not turn off when the school day ends.

Talking About What Is Scary Without Minimizing It

There is a topic many families avoid because it is uncomfortable: the anxiety students may feel about school safety.

The goal is not to create more fear, but to avoid pretending that fear does not exist.

When a son or daughter says they are worried about something related to school safety, the most helpful response is not to change the subject. It is to listen, validate the feeling, and, if necessary, seek professional support together as a family.

Three Things Families Can Do This Week

Make real time for conversation.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health recommends something simple: putting an encouraging message in a child’s backpack.

Or setting aside a few minutes each day — not necessarily a long conversation — to ask how their day went without rushing their response.

Consistency matters more than duration.

Prioritize sleep before any other routine.

Returning to a consistent sleep schedule is, according to recommendations from both NAMI and the Massachusetts DPH, one of the simplest and most effective ways to address school-related anxiety.

Before adjusting homework or extracurricular activities, consider adjusting bedtime.

Identify a trusted adult — and make sure the young person knows who that person is.

NAMI offers a downloadable guide, available in Spanish, called “How to Find a Trusted Adult,” designed to help students identify someone they can turn to when things become overwhelming.

It could be a family member, teacher, school counselor, or coach. It does not always have to be Mom or Dad, and that is okay.

For Families

Before seeking professional help, there are warning signs that any parent or caregiver can learn to recognize at home.

According to NAMI, it is important to pay attention when a son or daughter:

• Becomes increasingly socially isolated, even from friends they previously spent time with.
• Misses school for several days without a clear medical reason.
• Experiences a sudden decline in academic performance after previously maintaining it well.
• Expresses, in any way, an interest in hurting themselves — this requires immediate attention, not a conversation for “later.”

When it comes to bullying, the signs are not always obvious.

It could be a damaged backpack or clothing without an explanation, avoiding certain areas or routes within the school, or frequent headaches or stomachaches without a medical cause.

Or simply a change in mood that coincides with the school schedule.

NAMI recommends not waiting until you have “proof” to start the conversation.

Something as simple as, “I’ve noticed you’ve been different lately. Do you want to tell me what’s going on?” can be enough.

When it comes to healthy boundaries, the central idea is that a young person who learns to say no to an extra activity, plans with friends, or a demand that feels overwhelming is not being antisocial. They are protecting their energy.

This is especially relevant during the first weeks of school, when the temptation to sign up for everything — sports, clubs, tutoring — is high and exhaustion can arrive quickly.

Regarding social media, instead of imposing time limits without explanation, NAMI suggests that young people ask themselves how they feel before, during, and after using their phones.

That reflection can be more effective than an externally imposed prohibition because it builds awareness rather than simply creating resistance.

For more serious situations, have a crisis plan prepared in advance.

Information such as which professional to call, which hospital to go to, and what medication the young person takes, if applicable, can prevent valuable minutes from being lost searching for that information during an emergency.

The plan should be created during a calm moment, not when it is already needed.

For students themselves, identifying in advance who their trusted adult would be can make asking for help much less intimidating when they actually need it.

It does not necessarily have to be a parent. It could be an uncle or aunt, coach, or school counselor.

Complete guides: Bullying Signs · Healthy Boundaries · Social Media · Crisis Plan · Trusted Adult

For Schools and Educators

Educators are often the first to notice warning signs simply because they spend more hours each day with students than almost any other adult outside the home.

NAMI addresses this role from several practical angles:

Model the conversation, rather than simply allowing it.

NAMI recommends that teachers themselves share how they feel about returning to school and how they manage those feelings. When an adult normalizes talking about their own emotions, students are much more likely to do the same.

A simple framework for talking about mental health without being a therapist:

Genuine curiosity, concrete responses rather than vague ones, and sustained compassion. No clinical training is required to apply these principles in the classroom.

Trauma-informed practices from the first day:

Help make the classroom environment feel predictable and safe, especially for students who experienced difficult situations during the summer or in previous years.

Support during school safety drills:

Drills should be accompanied by a conversation beforehand — explaining what will happen and why — as well as space to process the experience afterward.

Without this support, a drill can create more anxiety than it is intended to prevent.

Educator burnout matters, too.

Maintaining this role comes at a cost, and educators are encouraged to prioritize their own rest, exercise, and relaxation techniques.

This is not a luxury. It is a condition that can help them continue supporting their students throughout the school year.

For schools that want to go beyond individual resources, NAMI also offers FLARE, a mental health literacy curriculum with 23 complete lesson plans for middle school students.

Complete guides: Classroom Mental Health Contract · The Three Cs for Educators · Three Keys for Transition · Active Shooter Drill · Compassion Fatigue · FLARE by NAMI

Resources

In Massachusetts, families also have access to:

• NAMI Massachusetts

The state chapter of NAMI offers free support groups, educational programs for families, and an information and referral line (not a crisis line): 617-704-6264, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., with service in English and Spanish. namimass.org

• NAMI HelpLine in Spanish

For families who prefer to speak in their own language.

• 988, the mental health crisis line available 24/7 by phone call or text.
• Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line:

833-773-2445, confidential 24/7 support available in Spanish.

• Samaritans:

1-877-870-4673, a helpline for people experiencing suicidal thoughts.

• MassSupport:

888-215-4920, emotional support following stressful or traumatic events.

• Ferreras Counseling Center

Visit www.myhealthfair.com for specialized support for Latino families.

• Health Care For All

1-800-272-4232, assistance accessing mental health services through MassHealth.

Today’s Students Want to Talk About Mental Health

You do not need to have all the answers to start the conversation. Sometimes it is enough to ask, “How are you really doing?” and patiently wait for the answer.

If you want to learn more about early warning signs and practical day-to-day guidance — how to notice behavioral changes, how to talk without creating fear, and when to seek professional help — we also invite you to read our related article: Back to School with Emotional Balance: Supporting Our Children Every Step of the Way

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), 2023 cycle — https://www.cdc.gov/yrbs/results/2023-yrbs-results.html

Boston Indicators / Boston Public Schools, Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2021 — https://www.bostonindicators.org/article-pages/2023/march/yrbs-briefing

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), Back to School Mental Health Resources — https://www.nami.org/kids-teens-and-young-adults/school-resources/back-to-school-resources/

Massachusetts Department of Public Health (Mass.gov), Back to School Mental Wellness: Tips for Parents/Caregivers of Teens — https://blog.mass.gov/publichealth/consumer-advice/back-to-school-mental-wellness-tips-for-parentscaregivers-of-teens/

Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line — https://www.masshelpline.com/

Samaritans — https://samaritanshope.org/ · MassSupport — https://www.masssupport.org/ · Health Care For All — https://hcfama.org/

Weekly article based on the interview with Dr. María Ferreras (Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center, Lawrence, MA) on El Koro del Morenaje on La Mega 95.1, aired on July 9, 2026.

How many times have we heard—or even said—things like, “That’s for crazy people,” “You’ll get over it,” or “If I ask for help, what will people think?” Those statements have a name: stigma.

According to psychologist Dr. María Ferreras, director of Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center in Lawrence, Massachusetts, stigma is the number one barrier that keeps Hispanic communities from seeking mental health care when they need it most.

Her message was clear from the very beginning:

“You can have everything, but if your mental health is missing, you won’t be able to do anything with everything you have.”

At My Health Fair, we highlight the most important takeaways from that conversation, along with Massachusetts resources to make taking the first step easier.

What Is Stigma, and Why Does It Hurt Us So Much?

Dr. Ferreras explains it simply: stigma consists of negative beliefs and stereotypes about mental health.

These are misconceptions passed from one generation to the next: if someone goes to therapy, they’re “crazy”; if a young person has depression, they’re “lazy”; if someone lives with anxiety, they’re “making it up.”

She compares it to being afraid of turbulence on an airplane. A passenger may believe the plane is about to crash, while the pilot—who understands how airplanes work—knows that’s not true.

Mental health works the same way. We often fear and judge something we don’t fully understand, and that fear prevents us from seeking help.

The most serious consequence is that stigma causes us to delay treatment.

Dr. Ferreras shared an example everyone can understand: when we need a place to live, we do everything possible to find housing because we know that without it, we could end up homeless.

But we don’t treat mental health with that same urgency.

“People don’t realize that seeking mental health care is just as necessary as finding a home or putting food on the table.”

She warned that untreated depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder eventually affects three major areas of life: our personal and family relationships, our work, and our connection with the people around us. In the end, untreated mental illness can put at risk the very apartment, food, and job we’ve worked so hard to obtain.

When One Family Member Suffers, the Whole Family Suffers

What happens when the person who needs help is your father, mother, child, or grandparent?

Dr. Ferreras used a familiar image:

“It’s like having a basket of oranges. If one is rotten and you leave it there long enough, the others will eventually start to rot too.”

Living with someone experiencing untreated depression, constant anger, or manic episodes affects everyone in the household.

The COVID-19 pandemic made this especially clear. As families spent more time together, many discovered mental health challenges that had gone unnoticed for years.

That’s why, Dr. Ferreras says, encouraging a loved one to seek help isn’t exposing them—it’s loving them.

“Helping someone find treatment is an act of love. Loving someone also means caring for them during their time of need, whatever the reason may be.”

She also shared a hopeful observation:

“When one person walks into our clinic, it often represents an entire family.”

A mother who begins therapy may later bring her spouse or children because she learns to recognize signs at home that previously went unnoticed.

The Three Biggest Barriers Facing Hispanic Communities

When asked about the most common obstacles to accessing mental health care, Dr. Ferreras identified three:

1. Stigma

“Believing that if I seek help, it means I’m crazy. Until that belief changes, this barrier will remain.”

According to Dr. Ferreras, stigma is the biggest obstacle of all.

2. Language

There simply aren’t enough Spanish-speaking mental health professionals.

Mental health care, she explained, should be provided in the patient’s own language so they can fully express themselves and understand their treatment.

Many people remain on waiting lists because they need a Spanish-speaking therapist.

A provider who understands Hispanic culture also understands expressions like “I had a nervous spell” or “I had an anxiety attack,” as well as cultural norms, such as adult children living with their parents, without automatically viewing them as problems.

3. Access to Health Insurance

Some people don’t have health insurance, while others have plans that don’t cover mental health providers or services.

Even so, Dr. Ferreras emphasized that there are solutions.

Community clinics like hers offer sliding-scale fees based on income and provide care regardless of immigration status.

If you have MassHealth, mental health services are covered. If you’ve lost your coverage, you may be able to renew it or explore other insurance options through the Massachusetts Health Connector.

How Do I Know If I Need Help?

Everyone has difficult days.

The difference, Dr. Ferreras explained, is how long those feelings last.

Ask yourself:

“Have I been feeling this way for a long time?”

If getting out of bed becomes difficult week after week, if someone who was once organized stops caring for their home or personal hygiene, or if sadness and irritability become the norm rather than the exception, it’s no longer “just a bad day.”

“If it’s something that keeps happening, then it’s time to seek help because there’s a problem that should be evaluated by a professional.”

She also reminded listeners that mental health struggles eventually become visible.

“Mental health reveals itself through your behavior. It’s better to recognize it yourself before someone else does.”

No One Has to Know: Confidential Care Is Available From Home

For those who fear being judged, Dr. Ferreras highlighted one positive change that came from the pandemic: telehealth.

“You can seek help without anyone knowing. You can speak with your doctor from the comfort of your home, have your medication sent to your pharmacy, and no one has to know.”

The initial phone call to a clinic is confidential.

Paperwork can be completed electronically or by mail.

Appointments with therapists and psychiatrists can take place over the phone or through secure video visits.

Today, the first step toward better mental health can begin with a simple phone call from the privacy of your own home.

During a Mental Health Crisis, Ask for Medical Help—Not Just Police Assistance

Dr. Ferreras addressed a painful reality: some people experiencing mental health crises have lost their lives because family members, unsure of where to turn, called the police instead of medical services.

Her recommendation is clear.

If a loved one is experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 and specifically request an ambulance for a mental health emergency, or take them directly to the nearest emergency department where they can be stabilized.

Massachusetts also offers free, confidential crisis services in Spanish available 24 hours a day to help families understand what to do and where to go.

Saving those numbers in your phone today could save a life tomorrow.

Confidential Mental Health Resources in Massachusetts

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or text 988, then press 2 for Spanish.
Free, confidential, available 24/7.

Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line

833-773-2445

Available 24 hours a day in Spanish.
No health insurance required.
Connects callers to crisis services and treatment throughout Massachusetts.

Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHCs)

Provide in-person crisis services across Massachusetts, with or without insurance coverage.

MassHealth

Covers therapy, psychiatry, and mental health treatment.

To renew your coverage or explore insurance options:

• Massachusetts Health Connector
• MassHealth: 800-841-2900

Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center (Lawrence)

439 South Union Street, Suite 104
(The same building as the Social Security office)

Phone: 978-648-8515

• Therapy in Spanish
• Phone and video appointments
• Sliding-scale fees based on income
• Services regardless of immigration status

In an Emergency

Call 911 and specifically request an ambulance for a mental health emergency, or go directly to the nearest emergency room.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know whether I’m experiencing depression or simply going through a difficult time?

The key is duration and frequency.

If sadness, lack of energy, neglecting personal care, or irritability continue for several weeks and begin affecting your work, family life, or daily routine, it’s time to speak with a mental health professional.

Can I receive therapy in Spanish without anyone finding out?

Yes.

Many clinics across Massachusetts offer confidential therapy in Spanish by phone or video from your home.

Your appointments, records, and treatment remain confidential.

What if I don’t have health insurance or immigration documents?

You can still receive care.

Community health clinics often adjust fees according to income and provide services regardless of immigration status.

You can also call the Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line at 833-773-2445 for free guidance on available options near you.

What should I do if a family member is experiencing a mental health crisis right now?

Call 988 (press 2 for Spanish) for immediate crisis support, or call 911 and specifically request an ambulance for a mental health emergency.

You may also take your loved one directly to the nearest emergency department.

More information www.myhealthfair.com

Mental health conditions affect millions of people across the United States every year.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), approximately 59.3 million adults experienced a mental illness in 2022.

This represents 23.1% of the U.S. adult population.

However, within the Hispanic community, thousands of people still do not receive timely treatment because of stigma, misinformation, and fear of being judged.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that stigma remains one of the greatest barriers preventing people from seeking mental health care.

As a result, many delay diagnosis and access to treatment that could significantly improve their quality of life.

This reality inspired My Health Fair to speak with Dr. María Ferreras, PhD, LMHC, CEO and Founder of Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center.

Dr. Ferreras is one of the most experienced Hispanic mental health professionals in Massachusetts.

During the interview, she shared valuable insights on diagnosis, early warning signs, access to treatment, and the challenges that continue to affect the Hispanic community.

The interview was conducted during El Koro, a radio program broadcast on La Mega in Lawrence, as part of My Health Fair’s mission to provide the Hispanic community with reliable health information and trusted resources.

“Mental illness is a medical condition like any other.”

According to Dr. Ferreras, one of the greatest challenges is changing the way families talk about mental health.

“Mental illness is a medical condition like any other. Just as someone can be diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease, your mind is also part of your body.”

She explained that many people still believe that seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist is something to be ashamed of.

In reality, mental health disorders are treatable medical conditions that require professional care, just like any other illness.

Stigma Begins in Childhood

During the interview, Dr. Ferreras shared the story of a 12-year-old child who refused to accept an Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis.

“Even children say, ‘I don’t have that. I’m not crazy.’”

According to Dr. Ferreras, comments like these demonstrate how stigma continues to be passed from one generation to the next.

“As parents, sometimes without realizing it, we label our children and take away their opportunity to receive help early.”

Mental Health Is Also Physical Health

One of the interview’s most important messages was that mental health directly affects overall well-being.

“The problem with mental illness is that it changes the way you think and behave.”

When mental health conditions go untreated, the consequences extend beyond emotional well-being and can affect family relationships, work, and social life.

Dr. Ferreras emphasized that untreated mental illness also increases the risk of developing physical health conditions.

She explained that anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders can negatively affect sleep, nutrition, and the immune system, while also increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Recognizing the Warning Signs Can Make a Difference

Although only a qualified professional can diagnose a mental health condition, certain behavioral changes should not be ignored when they persist over time.

Some warning signs include:

• Persistent sadness
• Social withdrawal
• Significant changes in sleep or appetite
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Frequent irritability
• Lack of energy
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Dr. Ferreras noted that family members are often the first to notice these behavioral changes.

Asking for Help Is a Sign of Strength

For many Hispanic families, accepting that there is an emotional or mental health concern remains one of the most difficult steps.

“The first step is accepting that you need help.”

She also pointed out that many people try to cope through alcohol or substance use when what they truly need is a professional evaluation.

“We all go through difficult moments, but when those problems begin to affect the way we think, feel, or behave, it is time to seek help.”

Massachusetts Offers Mental Health Resources That Many People Don’t Know About

One of the interview’s most valuable takeaways was practical information about accessing care.

Dr. Ferreras explained that many Massachusetts residents can access mental health services without first obtaining a referral from their primary care physician, depending on their health insurance coverage.

She also reminded viewers that all mental health information is protected under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

This means patients can seek care knowing that their privacy will be protected.

Breaking the Silence Can Save Lives

Dr. Ferreras believes education remains the most effective tool for reducing stigma.

“Let’s stop labeling children simply because their behavior has been affected by a mental health condition.”

She concluded with a message of hope:

“Every mental health condition can be treated. There is help, and there is hope.”

Mental Health Resources in Massachusetts

Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center – MyHealthFair.com

Services: Psychological evaluations, individual therapy, family therapy, and mental health services for children, adolescents, and adults in both English and Spanish.

Address:
439 South Union Street, Suite 104
Lawrence, MA 01843

Massachusetts Behavioral Health Help Line (BHHL)

https://www.masshelpline.com

The state’s free behavioral health helpline connects residents with mental health and substance use treatment services 24 hours a day.

Phone: 833-773-2445

Available 24/7.

Services offered in more than 200 languages.

No health insurance required.

Mass211

https://mass211.org

Provides free referrals to mental health services, food assistance, housing, transportation, and other community resources.

Dial 211.Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHC)

https://www.mass.gov

Massachusetts offers Community Behavioral Health Centers that provide immediate mental health evaluations, therapy, and crisis services.

Many locations accept walk-in visits without an appointment.

Emergency Services Program (ESP)

Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis can receive immediate assistance 24 hours a day.

Call 833-773-2445 or 911 in an emergency.

Visit the Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center digital booth on MyHealthFair.com, where you’ll find educational materials, Spanish-language resources, and information about services available to support the community’s mental health throughout the year.

Sources: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Mental Illness Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Mental Health Stigma, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About Mental Health.

Every day, millions of Americans take on a role that rarely appears in labor statistics but is essential to the well-being of countless families:

Family caregiver.

These are individuals who help aging parents, spouses, children with disabilities, or relatives with chronic illnesses perform basic activities of daily living.

They also assist with medical appointments, medication management, and maintaining their loved one’s independence.

According to the Caregiving in the U.S. 2025 report by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving:

Approximately 63 million Americans currently provide unpaid care to a family member or loved one.

While this work is essential to both the healthcare system and families, experts warn that it can have significant consequences when caregivers do not receive adequate support.

Many caregivers experience:

• Chronic stress
• Burnout
• Anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Depression

That is why organizations like Careforth provide resources, guidance, and ongoing support to people who dedicate much of their time to caring for others.

In Massachusetts, Careforth actively participates in initiatives designed to strengthen the well-being of families providing long-term care, particularly in communities facing economic, social, or language barriers.

Careforth specialists note that one of the greatest challenges is that many caregivers devote all of their energy to caring for someone else while neglecting their own health.

Self-Care Is Not a Luxury

Norma Jaramillo, a Careforth professional, explains that one of the most common misconceptions is that self-care is optional.

“Taking care of yourself is not a luxury. It is a fundamental part of the caregiving process,” she says.

According to Jaramillo, maintaining physical and emotional health helps caregivers preserve the energy, patience, and resilience needed to provide long-term care.

When caregivers become exhausted, the quality of care they provide may also be affected.

Caregiver Burnout Is Becoming Increasingly Common

Experts use the term caregiver burnout to describe the physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can develop after long periods of caregiving.

The condition usually develops gradually, and many people do not recognize the symptoms until they become severe.

Common warning signs include:

• Constant fatigue
• Frequent irritability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety
• Feelings of sadness
• Social isolation
• Lack of energy for everyday activities

If you’d like to learn more about the warning signs of caregiver burnout, how to recognize them early, and strategies to prevent it, we invite you to read this Careforth article:

Signs of Caregiver Burnout And How to Recognize Them

Prioritize Rest and Personal Health

According to Jaramillo, rest is one of the first aspects of life to suffer when someone takes on caregiving responsibilities.

Interrupted sleep, ongoing worries, and emotional demands can lead to accumulated fatigue.

She recommends:

• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
• Taking short breaks whenever possible during the day
• Sharing caregiving responsibilities when possible
• Asking family members or friends for help

She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy habits.

Recommendations include:

• Eating a balanced diet
• Staying hydrated
• Exercising regularly
• Attending preventive medical checkups
• Setting aside time for enjoyable activities

Acknowledging Your Emotions Is Also Part of Self-Care

Caregivers often experience a wide range of emotions.

Feelings of frustration, guilt, sadness, and worry are common, especially as a loved one’s care needs increase over time.

Jaramillo explains that recognizing these emotions and talking about them can help prevent more serious mental health issues.

Seeking professional support, joining a caregiver support group, or simply talking with trusted friends or family members can make a meaningful difference.

Asking for Help Is Also a Form of Caring

Many caregivers feel they must shoulder every responsibility on their own.

However, experts agree that accepting help is not a sign of weakness or lack of commitment.

On the contrary, sharing responsibilities and building a support network can reduce stress and help prevent burnout.

A Public Health Priority

As the population continues to age, family caregivers are becoming increasingly important.

Many healthcare organizations believe that supporting caregivers will be one of the major public health challenges of the coming decades.

For experts like Norma Jaramillo, the message is clear:

Taking care of yourself does not mean abandoning a loved one.

It means developing the physical and emotional strength needed to continue caring for them over the long term.

Watch the full interview here.

Resources for Caregivers in Massachusetts

Careforth

Homepage

Phone: 866-797-2333

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (ET); Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (ET).

Provides caregiver support, training, guidance, and programs for family caregivers, including resources for those caring for older adults and individuals with long-term care needs.

Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence (AGE)

https://www.mass.gov

Phone: 800-243-4636

Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Provides free information about services for older adults, caregivers, housing, transportation, nutrition, community support, and state programs throughout Massachusetts.

Interpreter services are available in more than 100 languages.

Family Caregiver Support Program (Massachusetts)

https://www.mass.gov

Phone: 800-243-4636 (MassOptions)

A free program that connects family caregivers with care specialists, support groups, caregiver education, personalized guidance, and respite care services.

AARP Caregiving Resources

https://www.aarp.org

Caregiver Support Line: 1-877-333-5885

Offers caregiving tools, planning guides, educational resources, and support for family members caring for loved ones.

If you would like more practical tips for preventing caregiver burnout, we invite you to watch Careforth’s full interview.

Visit the Careforth booth at MyHealthFair.com, where you’ll find resources, guidance, and tools designed to support caregivers and their families throughout the year.

Download the Caregiver Workbook

If you are caring for a family member or friend, this practical Spanish-language workbook offers valuable information, recommendations, exercises, and tools to help you organize caregiving responsibilities, reduce stress, and connect with helpful resources.

Download the Caregiver Workbook for free.

Taking care of your mental health doesn’t always begin with a doctor’s appointment or a major life decision.

In many cases, it starts with something much simpler:

Finding a trusted tool, making a call, reading a guide, or discovering that there are resources designed to help—even if you don’t fully understand what you’re feeling.

That uncertainty is more common than it seems.

Many people go through weeks or even months dealing with emotional exhaustion, constant anxiety, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, or a persistent feeling of being overwhelmed.

All of this can happen without clearly identifying what’s going on—and that reality is reflected in the data.

According to recent community health assessments, about 1 in 4 adults in Boston reports persistent anxiety.

Meanwhile, 22.2% are receiving treatment for depression.

Higher levels of anxiety are observed among young adults, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and residents facing greater economic challenges.

Among those aged 19 to 24, more than one-third have diagnoses related to anxiety (Boston Medical Center).

At the national level, anxiety and depression remain among the most common mental health conditions in the United States.

And even though there is more awareness and less stigma today, many people still don’t know where to start (CDC).

The good news is that you don’t need to have all the answers to begin.

There are free, accessible resources available in multiple languages that can serve as a first step.

And most importantly: using a support tool does not mean something is “wrong.” It means you’re paying attention to your well-being.

What happens after you take that first step?

One of the most common questions is: “If I use one of these resources, what comes next?”

The answer depends on each person.

Sometimes, the next step is simply recognizing that you need more rest or making small adjustments to your routine.

Other times, it can help you identify that it’s time to:

• Seek professional support
• Talk to someone you trust
• Contact a helpline
• Join a support group
• Explore community resources

What matters most is understanding that these tools are not meant to give you all the answers.

They are meant to help you get started.

1. Mental Health America’s Free Action Guide

https://mhanational.org/may

The Mental Health America Action Guide is a practical tool designed for individuals, families, schools, and organizations.

More than just an informational document, it works as a roadmap to build emotional well-being in a realistic way.

It includes:

• Simple activities to incorporate into daily life
• Exercises to define what a “good day” looks like
• Ready-to-share community resources
• Ideas for difficult conversations

Why is it useful?

Because mental health efforts often fail when we try to make big changes all at once.

This guide does the opposite: it focuses on small, sustainable, and realistic steps.

Digital tools you can use today

1. Trusted app library (non-commercial)

https://www.mentalhealthapps.org

If you’re not sure which app to use, this is one of the best places to start.

This platform gathers apps developed by the U.S. government and universities.

That means they’re not designed to sell subscriptions—they’re designed to help.

It includes tools for:

• Managing anxiety and stress
• Practicing mindfulness
• Improving sleep
• Supporting trauma recovery

✔ Free
✔ Evidence-based
✔ Non-commercial

It’s essentially a trusted library, not just another app.

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2. Digital toolkits from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits

These resources function as ready-to-use guides.

They include:

• Clear educational materials
• Strategies for managing emotions
• Resources to share with family or community
• Guidance for difficult conversations

They’re especially helpful if:

• You don’t know how to talk about mental health
• You want to support someone else
• You’re looking for reliable information without feeling overwhelmed

3. Official app for high-stress or crisis situations

The emergency app from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration was designed for extreme stress situations, but it can also be useful in everyday life.

It allows you to:

• Access resources offline
• Find nearby support
• Keep important information organized

It’s a practical tool to have on hand—even if you don’t need it right away.

4. Tool to help you have difficult conversations

https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/prevention/talk-they-hear-you/mobile-application

The Talk. They Hear You. app focuses on one key goal: helping you talk to others about difficult topics, including mental health.

It includes:

• Conversation simulations
• Real-life examples
• Strategies for parents and families

It’s especially useful in communities where mental health is still hard to talk about openly.

5. A simple guide to help you get started

https://mhanational.org/may

The guide from Mental Health America remains one of the simplest and most effective resources.

It doesn’t try to explain everything—it helps you begin.

It includes:

• Simple daily ideas
• Activities to build well-being
• Ready-to-use resources

Its biggest strength is this: it makes the process feel manageable.

6. The Steve Fund

https://www.thestevefund.org

While focused on young people from diverse communities, it offers valuable tools for any family.

It includes:

• Educational resources
• Support for college students
• Emotional wellness tools

Given that young adults in Boston experience some of the highest rates of anxiety, platforms like this play an important role.

7. Ferreras Counseling

https://myhealthfair.com

Culturally competent care remains a critical need for many Latino families.

Ferreras Counseling offers emotional support that is accessible, culturally aware, and grounded in the realities of the Hispanic community.

Sometimes, feeling understood culturally is what makes it possible to begin.

When you need to talk to someone

While digital tools can help, there are moments when talking to a person matters most.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call or text 988
https://988lifeline.org/

Available 24/7, free, and in Spanish.

You can use it if:

• You feel overwhelmed
• You need emotional support
• You don’t know who to talk to

You don’t have to be in crisis to reach out.

You don’t have to do it perfectly

One of the biggest misconceptions about mental health is thinking you need a complete plan before you begin.

But the reality is different.

Sometimes starting looks like:

• Downloading an app
• Reading a guide
• Saving a phone number
• Trying a small tool

In a city like Boston, where anxiety and stress affect a large portion of the population, access to these resources is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.

And today, that access is closer than it seems.

Editorial note

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. If you need immediate help, contact a support line or a licensed professional.

Youth mental health is one of the issues that most concerns parents, educators, and healthcare professionals today.

In many families, there is still fear, confusion, or silence around this topic.

However, understanding what young people are going through is key to being able to support them.

During a community conversation about mental health on La Mega in Lawrence, Dr. María Ferreras explained why this topic deserves more attention and dialogue within families.

Dr. Ferreras has extensive experience in this field. She is a PhD, LMHC, and CEO/Founder of Ferreras Counseling & Wellness Center.

According to recent data from the World Health Organization, one in seven young people between the ages of 10 and 19 lives with a mental health disorder.

Depression, anxiety, and behavioral disorders are among the most common conditions.

But behind the statistics, there is something even more important: the stories of young people who need to be heard.

A Difficult Stage for Many Young People

Adolescence is a stage of emotional, social, and biological changes.

For many young people, it can be a time of confusion or pressure.

As Dr. Ferreras explains:

“It is a difficult age, a difficult stage, but unfortunately many young people, due to immaturity, lack of capacity, and often peer pressure, negative environments, end up getting into trouble.”

When they do not receive proper support or guidance, some young people may face situations such as:

• Social pressure
• School-related problems
• Substance use
• School dropout
• Legal issues
• Emotional isolation

In diverse communities, the impact can be greater due to factors such as social inequality, family stress, or lack of access to mental health services.

Watch the full interview and hear her guidance and reflections directly:

What Can Cause Depression in a Young Person?

Depression in adolescents does not have a single cause. It can develop due to multiple factors that affect emotional health.

Dr. Ferreras explains it clearly:

“One cause may be a lack of dopamine and serotonin.”

These chemicals help regulate emotions.

When there is an imbalance, symptoms such as deep sadness, anxiety, or lack of motivation may appear.

Other contributing factors may include:

• Chronic stress
• Social pressure
• Family problems
• Bullying
• Poverty or economic instability
• Hormonal changes
• Traumatic experiences

Dr. Ferreras also mentions another important phenomenon:

“Sometimes they are transgenerational traumas, meaning they come from mom and dad.”

This means that difficult experiences from previous generations can influence how stress is experienced and managed within the family.

The Impact of Technology and Isolation

Today, many young people spend a large portion of their time on social media or digital devices.

While technology has benefits, it can also contribute to emotional isolation.

As Dr. Ferreras warns:

“Young people today are addicted to many forms of media, and that can also cause certain conditions, because one of the main effects is that young people isolate themselves.”

When family communication decreases, young people may feel alone or misunderstood.

She highlights something that concerns many parents:

“When there is no communication between parents and children, a young person who is not fully developed or mature can be easily influenced or led astray.”

For this reason, communication within the family remains one of the most important factors in protecting mental health.

Denial Can Make the Problem Worse

One of the biggest obstacles to seeking help is denial.

In some families, there is still a belief that talking about mental health is a sign of weakness or shame.

Dr. Ferreras warns about this issue:

“The problem with mental health conditions is that when there is denial, the young person is not functioning well, everyone can see there is a problem, but the parents say no.”

She also adds something important that many families need to hear:

“All mental health conditions are treatable. People can return to a functional emotional state.”

Seeking help does not mean a person is “broken.” It means they are receiving the support they need to improve their well-being.

The Importance of Listening to Young People

One of the most powerful messages from the conversation was the role of parents and caregivers.

Dr. Ferreras highlights three essential actions for families:

1. Get to know your children
   “First, get to know your son or daughter.”

Talking with them about their emotions, thoughts, and dreams can strengthen the family relationship.

2. Ask how they feel
“Second, ask your child how they feel.”
Young people need to know their feelings matter.

3. Learn to listen
“And third, listen, listen.”
Listening without judgment can make the difference between a young person feeling alone and feeling supported.

A Message for Families

Talking about mental health at home can save lives.

Dr. Ferreras shares a clear message for parents and caregivers:

“When they tell you they are not feeling well or may have a mental health condition, tell them: we are going to help you. There is help.”

Mental health does not discriminate by age, culture, or economic situation.

“A mental health condition can affect anyone in the world.”

Resources for the Community

Ferreras Counseling
Ferreras Counseling is a mental health center in Massachusetts that provides therapeutic support to individuals, families, and young people.

Their services include:

• Individual and family therapy
• Support for youth and adolescents
• Parenting skills groups
• Programs to help manage emotions and thoughts
• Support for emotional healing processes

The clinic offers services in both English and Spanish, making it more accessible for the Latino community.

They also collaborate with community health education initiatives.

To learn more about available services and resources, visit the Ferreras Counseling table at MyHealthFair.com.

Talking about mental health is not a sign of weakness. It is a step toward well-being.

When families listen, support, and seek reliable information, young people have greater opportunities to grow with emotional health, confidence, and hope for the future.