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Coping with loss in caregiving

June 23, 2026

There are 59 million people caring for someone aged 18+ years of age in the US.Researchers agree that caring for a disabled adult is one of the most stressful and challenging events families can face. This stress is often overwhelming and may have a negative impact on our emotional health and well-...

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Celebrate Mental Health Month in May

April 24, 2026

Family Files

May is Mental Health Month, and University of Illinois Extension is joining Mental Health America (MHA) to focus on a simple, shared goal: helping people have more good days, together. MHA’s More Good Days, Together campaign is about meeting people where they are and recognizing that “good” looks...

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Holiday stress: Tips for a healthier, happier season

November 26, 2025

Family Files

Each year during the winter holidays, watching It’s a Wonderful Life by Frank Capra is a tradition for me. The holidays are a natural time to reflect on one’s life. For some, the season feels exciting, fun, and refreshing. However, for others, it can be one of the most difficult times of...

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This September: Start a conversation. Be the difference.

September 22, 2025

Family Files

Each September is national Suicide Prevention Month. In 2023, 12.8 people seriously thought about suicide and 1.5 million people attempted it. Over 49,000 people died by suicide in 2023. That is one death every 11 seconds. Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. The...

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When children mourn

August 25, 2025

Family Files

Grief is a difficult experience for people of all ages, but navigating grief and loss can be especially challenging and confusing for young children. August 30 is National Grief Awareness Day, and I wanted to share this tip sheet from the Illinois Early...

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Managing the winter blues

December 12, 2024

Family Files

Winter is upon us and those longer hours of darkness coupled with the colder temperatures can make many people experience those “winter blues.” I am much more aware of the signs of mental health challenges having become a certified trainer for Mental...

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Mindful holidays: Reducing stress for a joyful season

December 9, 2024

Family Files

The holiday season can evoke a wide range of emotions, from anticipation and joy to reflection and nostalgia. This time of year often stirs up a multitude of thoughts, feelings, and memories, offering opportunities for connection and celebration. However, it can also bring added stress to an...

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Strategies for children lost or separated from their caregivers

November 27, 2024

Family Files

Children can get lost in many places. And at this time of year when we are all doing our holiday shopping, there can be an even bigger risk of a child losing their way. This information is from a new tip sheet by the Illinois Early Learning Project...

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Starting a self-care routine

September 23, 2024

September is a busy time for many of us. Summer is over and we may find that various work and family responsibilities are taking up more of our time and energy. Last month, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an Advisory on the...

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May is Mental Health Month

April 21, 2024

Family Files

We live in a rapidly changing world that can be complex to navigate. About half of Americans can remember a time when we were not constantly connected and it was easier to tune out the noise of the world, while the younger half of the population can’t imagine life without the internet. Modern life...

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