Adolescence is a time of constant change. Between navigating school, friendships, family expectations, and social media pressures, many teens feel the weight of their emotions more than ever.  “Research shows that 50% of all lifetime mental health conditions begin by age 14, however many go untreated for years due to a lack of awareness or stigma,” says Brittney Nathan, CCLS, Lead Program Development Specialist at Sanford fit. She adds, “Early and accessible mental health resources act as a preventative shield, transforming how young people navigate their life now and well into adulthood.”

Recognizing this need, Sanford fit, in partnership with the BeHEARD for Educators program and made possible by the First International Bank & Trust, worked closely with integrated health therapists, certified child life specialists, child psychologists, and child psychiatrists to create ‘What’s on My Mind’, a teen mental health workbook that provides teens a safe, accessible space to explore their feelings, practice coping strategies, and take ownership of their mental wellness.

Meeting Teens Where They Are

Mental health challenges in adolescence are widespread. “BeHEARD for educators was designed to help identify and support youth facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, stress and anxiety, disordered eating, suicidal thoughts, and stigma,” explains Aimee Grose, RN, Clinical Educator at Sanford Health. She continues, “Individuals who have completed the course have validated that the topics covered are consistent with the concerns they are seeing.”

‘What’s on My Mind’ complements this work by addressing teens directly. “This workbook serves as a personal guide for young people. It provides a safe space for them to explore their feelings, learn practical coping strategies, and recognize early signs and symptoms of potential mental health concerns,” Aimee says.

Unlike traditional resources, the workbook can be used in any setting – at home, at school, or even on the go. Brittney notes, “When a young person is experiencing a mental health crisis, it does not affect them solely at home or school. The weight of this experience is felt everywhere and often is all-consuming. To combat this, support must be seamless and available in all facets of their daily life.”

Practical Tools for Real Life

The workbook focuses on actionable skills that help teens navigate daily challenges. “So many teens are in the depths of a mental health crisis right now but wondering ‘Where do I even start?’. I’m hopeful this workbook will allow them to feel seen, understood, and provide guidance, allowing them to better understand what they are feeling, how to cope, and ask for help,” Brittney explains.

It includes mindfulness exercises, journaling prompts, and tools inspired by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), encouraging teens to experiment and reflect. “This workbook moves Sanford fit’s mission from knowing about mental health to practicing it. It takes clinical concepts and infuses it into teen-centric activities,” Brittney says.

The workbook also supports families. Many caregivers want to help but are not sure how to start the conversation. “By leaning into their teen’s experience with the workbook and asking open-ended questions such as ‘Tell me more about what you’ve completed, I’d love to learn some tips too!’ displays a vulnerability and authentic desire for connection,” Brittney adds.

A Collaboration with a Purpose

The partnership between Sanford fit and BeHEARD brings together deep expertise in youth mental health with practical, teen-friendly tools. “The teen-focused guided workbook brings mental health awareness directly to the individual level. By empowering teens to reflect on their emotions, recognize early signs of potential challenges, and identify trusted people they can turn to for support, this resource provides a proactive, frontline approach to promote resilience and well-being,” highlights Aimee.

This collaboration ensures that the workbook bridges the gap between knowledge and action. It is evidence-informed, practical, and engaging, reflecting a shared long-term vision: creating a culture where mental health is recognized as essential, stigma is reduced, and support is readily accessible for every young person.

Supporting Teens Today, Building Resilience for Tomorrow

‘What’s on My Mind’ is more than a workbook – it is a tool for hope, connection, and resilience. By giving teens the resources to understand and care for their mental health, it empowers them to face challenges with confidence, while providing families with guidance to join the journey.

Explore What’s on My Mind: A Teen’s Guide to Thinking, Feeling, and Figuring Things Out.