This column was originally featured on Newportri.com.
The recent tragedy in Portsmouth involving the loss of a high school student has deeply affected our community. For many families, it has sparked urgent conversations about how we support the emotional and mental well-being of our children. In the wake of this heartbreaking event, it’s important remember that help is available for children, teens, and families who are navigating grief, anxiety, and trauma.
Helping Parents Recognize and Address the Signs
Children may say they’re fine, but they often express their struggles through behavior rather than words. Parents should be attentive to subtle changes such as irritability, withdrawal from social activities, or changes in sleep or eating patterns.
Open communication is vital. Let them know you’re there to support them. “Be willing to listen and don’t minimize their feelings,” says Stephanie Lujan Rickerman, Division Director of Children’s Services at Newport Mental Health. Instead, validate their experiences and encourage them to express themselves.
“It’s also important to continue the same routines,” she says. “Things will feel unfamiliar and scary, so routines help while staying flexible to their needs.”
If you’re unsure about whether or not your child needs additional support, you can call our helpline and ask for guidance. By reaching out to Newport Mental Health, you’re taking a proactive step in ensuring your child’s well-being.
Helping Children and Teens
It’s okay to not feel okay. Recognizing when you’re struggling is the first step toward healing. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or disconnected, know that you’re not alone. Talking to someone you trust—a parent, teacher, school counselor, or friend—can be incredibly relieving. Newport Mental Health has counselors in the Portsmouth and Middletown schools, and you can always ask to sit down with them. Or you can call or visit our offices in Middletown, where we offer a safe space to speak openly and receive the support you deserve.
Remember, your feelings matter. By seeking support, you’re taking an important step toward understanding your feelings and learning how to care for your mental health.
“Life is hard,” says Danielle Starkey, a Newport Mental Health School Therapist working with high and middle schoolers. “Mental health is a lifetime journey. We try to give kids tools that will carry them through to adulthood and help them feel well and flourish.”
“It doesn’t matter how old you are, when you’re struggling it’s hard, and it feels lonely,” she says. “To be told that others have the same feelings, and that there are things that can help, just that hope can be enough to pull you through.”
Mallory Leonard, a Newport Mental Health Children’s Outpatient Clinician, says, “Kids often tell me things like, ‘After talking to you I feel better. I did what you suggested, and it really worked. I’m practicing a self-care routine or a coping skill and it’s working for me.’ “
“I always want to remind them that I am helpful, but you’re doing the real work,” she says. “I try to listen and be what they need.”
If you or someone you know needs support, Newport Mental Health is here to help people of all ages. Walk-in hours (no appointment needed) are Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 2 pm, at 42 Valley Road in Middletown. Additionally, the crisis helpline is staffed with trained counselors who are available 24/7 by calling (401) 846-1213 option 1. And you can also call the national crisis line at 988.
For additional resources to help a child who is grieving, please visit: The Dougy Center at dougy.org, the National Alliance for Children’s Grief at nagc.org, or Child Mind Institute, childmind.org.