A Message from our Executive Director | |
Connection Before Crisis: The Power of Reaching Out Early
September brings a season of transition. Youth are returning to school, families are adjusting to new schedules, and expectations begin to build around academics, activities, work, and everyday responsibilities. For some, these changes are exciting. For others, they can bring uncertainty, stress, or a sense of being overwhelmed. During Suicide Prevention Month, we are reminded of something that matters throughout the entire year: support should not begin only when someone reaches a crisis.
Too often, families feel they need to wait until a situation becomes serious before asking for help. A youth may begin withdrawing from friends, struggling at school, losing interest in activities, or simply seeming different. A parent or caregiver may recognize that something is changing but may not know whether it is "serious enough" to reach out. There does not need to be a crisis before a conversation begins. Sometimes the most important thing we can do is notice, listen, ask questions, and connect someone with support early.
Connection can take many forms. It may be a trusted adult who takes the time to listen without judgment, a parent who keeps asking even when the first answer is "I am fine," a teacher who notices a change, or a friend who stays present. It can also mean helping a family navigate Idaho’s behavioral health system, understand available services, identify resources, or simply determine what the next step should be. No single person needs to have all the answers. What matters is helping people know that they do not have to figure everything out alone.
At FYIdaho, we believe strong connections can change the direction of a family’s journey. Reaching out early can open doors to resources, strengthen relationships, and create opportunities for support before challenges become overwhelming. This September, I encourage each of us to pay attention to the people around us. Ask the extra question. Listen a little longer. Check in again tomorrow. And when someone tells you they are struggling, help them find the next connection. We do not have to wait for crisis to create connection.
-Brenda Willson, FYIdaho Executive Director
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Notice
Pay attention to changes that are new, increasing, or connected to a difficult event, loss, or major transition. This can include withdrawing from others, losing interest in usual activities, changes in sleep, increased substance use, intense mood shifts, or statements about feeling hopeless or like a burden.
Not every change means a person is in crisis. It does mean they may benefit from someone slowing down, showing care, and asking how they are doing.
Ask
Start gently and specifically. Rather than asking only “Are you okay?” try:
- “You seem like you have had a lot on your mind lately. How are things really going?”
- “I have noticed you have not seemed like yourself this week. Want to talk, take a walk, or sit together?”
- “You do not have to handle this alone. What feels hardest right now?”
- “Would it help if I listened, helped you think through options, or just stayed with you?”
If you are concerned that someone may be thinking about suicide, ask directly and calmly: “Are you thinking about hurting yourself or ending your life?” Asking does not put the idea in someone’s mind. It can open the door to honest support.
Listen
Listen for understanding instead of trying to fix everything immediately. Thank the person for telling you. Avoid minimizing their feelings, debating whether they “should” feel that way, or rushing to reassure them that everything will be fine.

Helpful responses include:
- “I am really glad you told me.”
- “That sounds exhausting. I am here with you.”
- “You are not a burden to me.”
- “We can take this one next step at a time.”
Follow Up
One conversation matters, but consistent connection matters too. Check in the next day, after school, or later that week. A simple “I was thinking about you...how are you today?” can reinforce that your support was real, not a one-time question.
| Family Connection Calendar | | At the beginning of the week, each person chooses one 10–15 minute connection activity for each day. Keep the activities low-pressure and realistic. The point is not to force a deep conversation; it is to create regular opportunities for belonging and honest communication. | | Introducing Our New Youth Programs Manager! | | |
Meet Adelynn:
"My family and I moved to Idaho from Alaska in 2021. My four younger siblings gave me the first opportunity to take on the role of an educator. Since then, I’ve been lucky to work with kids in many settings while earning a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Boise State University. I graduated from Boise State in 2025 and have spent as much time as possible in the classroom since then. I believe in modeling positive uses of agency and autonomy to growing brains, and ensuring that kids from all backgrounds feel uplifted and represented by the adults who look out for them. In my free time, you might see me with my team on the track, playing roller derby, or getting to know Boise, my new home."
| | Calling All Vendors! FYIdaho Vintage Market and Yard Sale | | |
Join us as a vendor at the FYIdaho Vintage Market and Yard Sale! We are seeking vendors who offer vintage items, collectibles, handmade goods, antiques, home décor, crafts, and yard-sale treasures.
Future Market Dates
September 19
October 24

Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: 704 N. 7th Street, Boise, ID
Vendor space fees are $50 per space, and a portion of each vendor fee will benefit FYIdaho's Boise Brick House, supporting youth and families in our community.
To reserve your vendor space or request additional information, email info@fyidaho.org.A portion of the proceeds directly supports the Boise Brick House after-school programming for local youth in our community.
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September 19th
10:00am - 3:00pm

704 N. 7th Street
Boise, ID 83702
| | Does your teen need a safe environment this year? Check out the Boise Brick House! | |
704 N. 7th St.
Boise, ID 83702
The Boise Brick House is a teen-driven drop-in center designed for high school-aged youth in the Treasure Valley. We believe every teen deserves a place to relax, connect, and engage in meaningful conversations about mental wellness with trusted adults in our community.
We are excited to create an experience that celebrates mental wellness while bringing our bigger goals to life in fun and meaningful ways. Through lively, interactive activities, we are building a space where everyone can unwind, connect, and enjoy each moment. Some of our activities include:
- Video Game Challenges, Tutoring, and Academic Goal Setting
- Volunteer-led Activities, including Baking and Crafting Classes
- Clubs, Resume Building, and Application Help
- Go-Team Therapy Dogs
- Seasonal Activities, Such As Gardening, Planting, Scavenger Hunts, etc.
These moments stimulate creativity, enhance overall well-being, and reinforce our sense of community, making the experience both invigorating and uplifting.
Regular operating hours are Mondays through Thursdays from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm.
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FYIdaho's Family Support Line
Our staff has a wealth of personal experience navigating all facets of the children's mental health system. They are ready to help guide you on your own journey.
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Did you know we offer presentations about FYIdaho to providers and community events?

Contact our Executive Director!
Call us at 208-433-8845 or email info@fyidaho.org for more information.
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FYIdaho is committed to improving, preserving, and restoring the mental health of youth and their families. We strive to maximize the potential of children, youth, and their families for full involvement and inclusion in their community.
Families and Youth of Idaho
208-433-8845 | www.fyidaho.org
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