A place where people share stories about turning difficult moments, days, and situations around.
Teachers/Educators
Every school day, teachers enrich the lives of children — and help them overcome learning challenges. In this ongoing series, educators and others share stories about memorable moments in their time as a teacher or student.
Creating Enthusiastic Young Readers
“Elementary students dashed into the library and ran to their favorite sections, looking at the new signage and posters….”
Helping a Student Build Confidence
“The entire class was loving it – except Jenna. It was at this moment I realized Jenna hated loud noises!”
Inspiring Children to Contribute to Their School
“These behind-the-scenes moments of showing students …help them understand the ‘why’ behind what teachers do….”
Celebrating Children’s Reading Success
“If classes had earned positive feedback and accomplished their tasks …they had free time on Friday to take part in special activities.”
Family Mental Health
In our update for Summer 2025, Menderist shares resources from major U.S. and Canadian mental health organizations. We also highlight children’s books (for ages 8+) with mental health themes, and share family stories about helping young people overcome anxiety and other challenges.
Summer Reading: 19 Children’s Books with Mental Health Themes
“Seventh-grader Viv …becomes so preoccupied with her image and social media presence that she ignores her real-life friends.” (from the review of ‘Picture Day’)
How We Helped Our Son Navigate Severe Anxiety
“The promising start to the high school year came to an abrupt end, and my son struggled with his health, then fell into a debilitating depression. Meanwhile, our family scrambled to figure out how to help….”
Mental Health Support for Families, Caregivers in the United States
Mental Health Support for Families, Caregivers in Canada
Family Mental Health Support from 12 Step & Other Substance Disorder Programs
Menderist provides an overview of family and caregiver help from leading groups whose programs are based on 12 step or other approaches: including Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, Smart Recovery and Learn2Cope.
Finding a Mental Health Therapist
“It can be challenging to find someone in your area who is accepting new clients: the demand for therapists, particularly psychiatrists, is high. For this reason, Menderist is listing both traditional mental health organizations and other sources….”
Popular Stories
Lessons from a Big Mistake
“An old family video shows me, around five years of age, crying… frustrated that my toys keep falling off a toy wheelbarrow as I struggle….”
The Differences That Mothers Make
Remembering Others in Joyful Times
My Journey to Better Mental Health
“As I entered middle age, my mind and body changed — and my stress relievers no longer served their intended purpose ….”
Think Big: My Mother’s Enduring Message
A Closer Relationship
My husband bravely became part of our family when the kids were teenagers. Memories of our wedding ceremony always make me chuckle. I picture us….”
The Right Tool for the Job
“I live in the middle of the prairie states. This means that weather changes fast and can have life-altering consequences ….”
