Mental Health Awareness
This resource toolkit brings together up-to-date resources from trusted organizations, including tools, data, and links designed to support young people, caregivers, and professionals in finding the help and information they need.*
*All data and links were accurate at the time of publication, but may change over time.
FOR URGENT SUPPORT TEXT OR CALL 988
Information for:
May is recognized as Mental Health Month, a time to recognize the importance of emotional well-being and to reinforce that mental health matters at every stage of life. The first full week of May is also Children’s Mental Health Week. This week is dedicated to raising awareness about the mental health needs of children and adolescents, highlighting the importance of early support, prevention, and nurturing environments where young people can thrive.
Green is widely recognized as the color of mental health awareness. Historically, the color was used in harmful and stigmatizing ways to label individuals with mental illness. Over time, advocates within the children’s mental health movement reclaimed green as a symbol of growth and resilience. Today, the green ribbon represents support for mental health, solidarity with those navigating challenges, and a shared commitment to improving access to care and understanding. During Mental Health Month, wearing or displaying green is a visible reminder that mental health is health, and that no one is alone.
did you
know?
This webpage is designed to support open conversations about mental health, provide general awareness and education about mental well-being, and to connect everyone to up-to-date resources.
EVERYONE
Caring for your mental health is an ongoing practice. Taking time to check in with yourself -- emotionally, physically, and mentally -- can help you recognize stress early and build self-care habits. Small - and consistent - actions can make a meaningful difference.
Explore additional resources below that support mental health/well-being:
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Interested in introducing Free Your Feels programming and/or resources in your school or community? Consider options like curated mental health resources, peer-to-peer wellness groups, or monthly Feelings Friday events. These events create space for youth voice, connection, and stigma reduction.
The CDC provides updated guidance on stress, emotional wellness, and protective factors for mental health across ages.
Mental Health America offers a 2026 Mental Health Month Planning Guide full of activities, ready-to-use communication tools, and more!
SAMHSA offers an annual Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit. This toolkit can help spread awareness about the importance of mental health and its effects on physical and emotional well-being. Check out 2026's version!
YOUTH
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Building healthy habits — like resting, expressing emotions, staying connected, and doing things you enjoy — can help you manage stress over time. You don’t have to tackle everything at once!
Explore these resources to learn more about self-cares, guides, and more:
The AIM Youth Mental Health blog offers easy-to-understand articles written specifically for young people. The blog normalizes mental health conversations and provides real-life strategies.
Create Your Own Mental Health Calendar! Use daily prompts (movement, gratitude, connection, rest) to design a calendar that supports your well-being throughout May — or any month.
DIY
(DO IT
YOURSELF)
CAREGIVERS
Caregivers play a powerful role in shaping how young people understand emotions, cope with stress, and reach out for help. Having regular, open conversations about mental health can strengthen trust.
Explore these resources to learn how to better support the young person in your life:
On Our Sleeves (Kids Mental Health Foundation) provides evidence-informed tools that help caregivers talk with children about feelings, anxiety, bullying, grief, and emotional regulation.
Child Mind Institute has up-to-date resources that help caregivers recognize mental health concerns and support children at home and school.
EDUCATORS & PROFESSIONALS
Schools, afterschool programs, and community spaces are critical environments for youth mental health support. Trusted adults can help normalize emotional expression and connect young people to resources through simple, visible actions.
Explore these resources to better support the young people you serve:
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has a “Stand Up to Stress” Activity Book (for ages 8–12), which is a free, printable coloring and activity book that teaches coping skills and stress-management techniques.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers toolkits and prevention materials specifically for educators and youth-serving professionals.
Not seeing a resource you need? Email us freeyourfeels@gmail.com and let's work together on creating resources that support the mental health and wellbeing of Georgia’s young people
If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, please call or text 988 for 24/7 support.
Free Your Feels is not a mental health provider and does not offer crisis services.
Additional topics and resources are available in the Resource Library.
