Community organizations and subject matter experts partner together to offer information that is timely and relevant to changes in laws, shifts in culture, and topics of interest. Information provided below is just a small sample of many resources available to help parents and children navigate the world around them. Check back often as new resources are added.

Crisis support

Crisis Text Line is a global not-for-profit organization providing free 24/7 mental health texting service through confidential crisis intervention. Individuals can seek support for anything: anxiety, depression, suicide, school, and more.

• Text HOME to 741741
• Send a message on Facebook

Marijuana

Beginning January 1, 2020 recreational marijuana use will be legal for adult use for those 21 and over in Illinois.

• Link Together Coalition: Marijuana Parent Toolkit
• Link Together Coalition: Effect of Marijuana Legalization on Youth
• Link Together Coalition: Vaping and Marijuana Terms

Suicide Prevention

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Chat support is also available.

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• Prevención del Suicidio: 1-888-628-9454
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing: 1-888-628-9454

Vaping

Use of e-cigarettes and vaping is on the rise among children, teens, and young adults, though the risk of addiction and other related and long-term health complications and diseases is high.

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Quick facts on the risks of e-cigarettes for kids, teens, and young adults
• CDC & Surgeon General: Talk with your teen about e-cigarettes: A tip sheet for parents
• Link Together Coalition: Vaping and Marijuana Terms