(Two loose files found at the root of the Drive folder rather than inside a named topic subfolder — filed here as their own small topic.)

Finding a Trusted Adult

Source: root-level file — "BTS-Finding-a-Trusted-Adult.pdf" (NAMI, citing YouthSMART)

A youth-facing guide on identifying and approaching a trusted adult — parent/stepparent/guardian/older sibling, older relative, a friend's parent, teacher/coach, faith leader, counselor, or peer support worker. Describes what makes someone trustworthy: respectful (doesn't make you feel inferior or push your limits), non-judgmental, trustworthy (keeps confidences but knows when safety overrides secrecy), accountable (admits mistakes), helpful (knows when to advise vs. just listen), and thoughtful/attentive. Practical steps: plan what to say in advance, find a private space, and test the relationship on something small first ("I'm thinking about dying my hair purple, what do you think?") before raising something bigger. If the adult isn't supportive, the guide is explicit that this doesn't mean giving up — try someone else in your network, since it can take several attempts to find the right fit. Directly relevant for a coach helping a young person build their own support network beyond the coaching relationship itself.

Worried? Tell Someone

Source: root-level file — "Youth - How to Ask for Help.pdf" (NAMI)

Short, direct youth-facing prompt card: 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6–17 experience a mental health disorder each year, and getting help early keeps you on track. Suggests concrete opening lines: "I haven't felt like myself lately, and I don't know what to do. Can I talk to you about it?"; "I'm worried about stuff that's going on right now, do you have time to talk?"; "I'm having a really hard time; will you go with me to see someone?" Practical notes: rule out physical health causes first, be honest and clear about what you want from the conversation, ask specifically for help finding a therapist who's a good fit, expect that appointments can take time to schedule (so don't wait to start looking), and mention if you're in crisis when scheduling since that can speed things up. NAMI HelpLine listed as a bridge resource while waiting: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text "helpline" to 62640, or chat at nami.org/help.