Mental health resources

These organizations support children and teens with chronic health conditions or disabilities and their families.

• PACER Center, Inc.
  PACER advocates for parents of children ages 0–21 with disabilities. They offer parent workshops and free publications.
  612-827-2966 | 1-800-53-PACER | Website
• Pathfinder Resources, Inc.
  Pathfinder works to improve systems of care for people with chronic health conditions and provides education and workshops.
  612-647-6905 | Website

Helpful books written specifically for teens navigating chronic conditions.

• The Chronic Pain and Illness Workbook for Teens: Evidence‑based CBT and mindfulness strategies to reduce pain and support meaningful living.
  Evidence based strategies to reduce pain and help teens live life meaningfully.
  Zoffness, R. (2019)
• I Still Dream Big: Stories of Teens Living with Chronic Illness.
  Personal stories from teens sharing their experiences.
  Wolf, P. (2009)
• Easy for You to Say: Q and As for Teens Living with Chronic Illness or Disability.
  Straightforward answers to common questions teens may not always ask.
  Kaufman, M. (2012)
• Young People and Chronic Illness
  Youth talk about their families, friends, talents, interests, struggles, and dreams.
  – Huegel, K. (1998). 
• Teens Face to Face with Chronic Illness
  Thirteen young people describe in their own words the nature of their illnesses and, most importantly, how they cope.
  – Levert, S. (1993).
• Taking Charge: Teenagers Talk about Life and Physical Disabilities
  Gives advice and creative solutions for the wide range of issues that teens with a variety of illness and other physical disabilities face during adolescence. Covers three major areas of concern: self-esteem, relationships, and dealing with the future.
  – Kriegsman, K. H. (1992).