ShineLightonDepression.org is shutting down, but the curriculum you know and trust is right here. Welcome to Erika’s Lighthouse, the direct source for your free programs.
Erika’s Lighthouse releases an annual program report to highlight the impact that our programs have made in schools nationwide with our Level II and Level III classroom education. The Program Report for the 2023-2024 school year also recognizes Erika’s Lighthouse’s 20th Anniversary and takes a look at how our programs have changed over the course …
Erika’s Lighthouse is a beacon of hope for schools seeking to create inclusive and supportive environments where mental health matters. Mental health literacy is defined as an understanding of common mental health disorders, how to maintain positive mental health, increase help-seeking, and reduce stigma. When schools prioritize and adopt programs that teach mental health literacy, …
Adolescent depression is real, serious and treatable. However, adolescence is a time of major changes, both physically and emotionally. That may make it difficult to identify beyond typical adolescent behavior, but by looking for the signs and symptoms of depression, we can see it. Adolescence is frequently when depression may first happen, and is one …
There are many different ways to communicate, and not everyone prefers or feels the most comfortable doing it verbally. It’s important to be aware of different communication styles and to be flexible when communicating with your children. Writing can be such a powerful tool and a different but effective form of communication. Incorporating a Family …
The Family Conversation Journal: A Tool for Building Stronger Relationships Read More »
In 2020, suicide was the third leading cause of death for black and African American youth ages 15-19. Mental health disparities among minority groups are a severe problem in the United States. There have been increasing trends in suicidal ideation and attempts among US adolescents by sex and race/ethnicity over the past few decades. A …
Erika’s Lighthouse focuses on equipping school communities with the mental health education needed through four main pillars. Classroom Education, Family Engagement, Empowerment Clubs, and School Policy & Staff Development. These work together to promote and support an inclusive school culture around mental health by targeting all stakeholders in the school community; staff, caregivers, and students. …
The holidays can be a busy and sometimes stressful time for families, especially for children and teens. There are often long days and lots of changes in routine which can lead to increased stress. However, at times, the changes in routine also leave parents and caregivers with an opportunity to spend more time and have …
Family Conversations: “Let’s Talk” During the Holiday Season Read More »
As we approach the end of another year, it’s a good time to start thinking about how you and your family can improve your mental health in the year ahead. Prioritize your mental health and explore activities and practices that may work for each individual in your house. The following tips can help you get …
Improve Your Family’s Mental Health & Prepare for Next Year! Read More »
Erika’s Lighthouse was founded following the loss of a 14-year-old girl who lost her life to her depression. When Erika died, her family and friends felt that the community did not have the knowledge or vocabulary to talk about depression and suicide. They came together and created the program that they felt would have benefited …
