OPT Out Program

Resiliency is the ability to adapt when facing tragedy, trauma, and other stressors. It can help reduce the impact of psychological distress and protect people from developing some mental health conditions. Additionally, resilience can improve one's coping abilities.

What are ways you can increase resiliency?

It’s often easier for us to be able to identify positive traits in others than ourselves. What would you describe as your key personality strengths? Unsure? Take this free personality quiz, https://www.viacharacter.org, to identify what your strengths are. Why? Swipe to find out!

Pause for a few minutes today to just breathe and be present. A simple mindfulness practices can help reduce stress and improve focus throughout the day.

Try the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique.

Being a part of a team is a great opportunity to learn about sportsmanship, camaraderie, and goal setting. It can also lead to overwhelming pressure and stress. Attend this webinar to learn how to support your teens to developing healthy habits and support!

There's still time to register!

Students juggling activities, leadership roles, and athletics face unique pressures that can impact their well-being. Our first webinar of the year on January 28th is with Tina George from Caron Treatment Centers. She will dive into how stress and anxiety affect students physically and mentally, the risks of substances like caffeine, workout supplements, and opioids, and practical tips to help students manage stress, stay balanced, and thrive substance-free. Register now at https://loom.ly/56ILLsM

✨We’re also thrilled to share that this session will be on our new platform with live captions, making it even easier to connect and learn together.✨

Did you know that hugs have several physical and mental health benefits?
When a person gets 8-12 firm hugs a day for just about 20 seconds each, they can experience the following benefits:
♡ Lowered blood pressure and heart rate; improved cardiovascular function.
♡ Decreased the release of cortisol, making you less stressed and allowing for improved sleep.
♡ Boosted oxytocin in our bodies, which is associated with feeling happier.
♡ Reduced anxiety and increased feelings of belonging and safety.

Today, we remember and celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

As a leader, he inspired generations with his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and peace.

Dr. King's message still rings true today: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." Let's continue to fight for a world where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of race, background, or belief.

As we reflect on his words and actions, let's find ways to make our communities stronger, kinder, and more inclusive. Together, we can continue his dream.

We hope everyone is having a happy and warm Friday!

We just wanted to let you know that we will be closed Monday (1/20/25) in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Be patient when you are trying to make habits. It can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone.

Get support by your family and friends, and if necessary, talk to a professional for additional support.

This year, let's make mental health a top priority. Setting an intention of mindfulness and self-care can lead to us being more empowered.

Here are a few intentions to consider for this new year.