Strong connections to people, place, pets, and nature are some of our most fundamental needs as humans. These connections are crucial for navigating the sometimes challenging and emotionally difficult experiences both teens and parents face.
Choose Connection is a campaign created by Alaska youth to help young people find healthy ways to feel good, stay strong during tough times, and build supportive relationships. Instead of focusing on what not to do, youth want to share positive ways to get and stay connected to ourselves, each other, and our communities.
Javi, Southeast Alaska
Joseph, Interior Alaska
Sarah, Southwest Alaska
How Do You Choose Connection?
When we ask what truly makes us happy, we build a stronger connection with ourselves and our place in the world. Enter your zipcode and a word or two that describes how you connect to see how you and others in your community choose connection!
Why Connection Matters
When we choose connection, we build healthy habits that protect us and others. These connections can:
Help us through difficult times
Make us feel safe and content
Give us a sense of purpose
The strength of our connections directly impacts our ability to face the ups and downs of life. The stronger these connections we create, the more grounded we are in ourselves. The more grounded we are, the less we are likely to engage in risky behavior like drinking alcohol. When we embrace the power of our connections, we can build a solid foundation for our lives.
Parents play a vital role in fostering connections for their teens. It’s important to provide safe spaces for open communication where teens can build good connections and healthy habits. Sharing about your experiences can inspire and encourage your teen to open up and find their own unique way to connect to the world. Together we can empower ourselves and the next generations to live more fulfilling lives. Learn more about healthy communication with your teen here.
Resources
If you’re a teen, young adult, or parent looking for better or healthier ways to build connection, check out these Alaska resources:
- Alaska’s Adolescent Health Program
- iknowmine: Truthful, accurate information for youth
- Center for Parent & Teen Communication
- Healthy Native Youth
- Healthy Native Youth, Community of Practice
- Healthy Relationships Plus
- STAR – Healthy Relationships/Dating
- Transforming Schools: Trauma-Engaged Toolkit
- WERNATIVE
For Professionals, Organizations, and All Alaskans
Are you interested in sharing this campaign throughout your community? Download the campaign booklet to learn more about our process and outcomes.
Do you need campaign materials? You can order a variety of swag items, including posters, by filling out this form.
Do You Have a Story of Connection?
What helps you feel a connection with yourself, your community, your family or friends, or the world? How do you stay connected? Your story of choosing connection may help someone else who is struggling to feel connected.
If you are experiencing an emergency, call 9-1-1. If you need help finding a behavioral health provider, visit ANTHC Behavioral Health, Findtreatment.gov, or NAMI Alaska. To get help finding a behavioral health specialist, call 1-800-662-4357. If you are in crisis, grieving, concerned about someone, or feeling down, please contact the Alaska Careline at 9-8-8.
Campaign funded by
