INTRODUCING
LIFESKILLS PORTAL
This comprehensive online platform provides a wealth of resources and support to empower young individuals as they transition into adulthood and independence.
Focused on practical expertise, education, and empowerment, the Life Skills Portal is all about giving you the tools and know-how to crush your transition into adulthood. It’s your number one resource for tackling the ups and downs with confidence and independence.
As you're gearing up for aging up, dive into a treasure trove of useful info and step-by-step guides to mastering adulthood. The Portal is packed with the support and instructions you need during this exciting and pivotal stage of your life.
We’re here to help you unlock your potential and slay adulthood with ease!
Self-Advocating, Perseverance, and Determination
Self-advocacy, perseverance, and determination are more than buzzwords—they're life-changing traits. This guide breaks down how to strengthen these skills so you can confidently advocate for yourself, stay resilient during setbacks, and keep pushing toward your goals.
Seeking Help
Asking for help is a powerful act of self-care. Whether you're facing emotional, mental, or everyday challenges, this guide offers steps and reflection questions to help you recognize your needs, find the right support, and stay committed to personal growth.
Choosing a Therapist
Finding the right therapist is one of the most important steps on your mental health journey. This guide breaks down how to identify what you need, where to search, and how to choose someone who fits your personality, goals, and lifestyle.
When a Goal Feels Like a Pipe Dream
Discover our FYRC's take on goal setting with practical, easy-to-follow steps that help turn big dreams into achievable milestones. From saving for a car to staying motivated, this relatable guide will inspire anyone looking to set and crush their goals.
Inspiring Words from Carli Dansky: Be Yourself-No One Can Bring To The Table What You Can.
Discover the power of being true to yourself with Carli Dansky’s inspirational Q&A. From the importance of self-discovery to embracing your authentic self, Carli shares heartfelt advice for creating your own path and finding success by being unapologetically you. Perfect for anyone on a journey of self-growth and empowerment.
Cooking Healthy Meals: Fun, Easy, and Totally Doable!
Discover how cooking healthy meals can be fun, easy, and rewarding! Learn simple tips for meal prepping, flavor-boosting, and making balanced, nutritious dishes that taste great. Perfect for beginners looking to eat well without the hassle.
Hygiene Basics
Mastering hygiene boosts both your confidence and how others perceive you. From showering and brushing teeth to skincare and hair care, small hygiene practices make a big impact. Fresh clothes, proper nail care, and a clean space contribute to feeling your best. Embrace self-care, and enjoy expressing yourself through personal style.
Understanding and Coping with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
Understanding ACE’s and how they impact your psychological health is important to healing from them and developing strategies to move forward.
Finding and Choosing a Mentor
A mentor provides essential guidance and support in your career, education, or personal growth. To find the right mentor, identify your goals, research potential mentors, and evaluate their experience and communication style. Establish a relationship by setting clear expectations and maintaining mutual respect. A good mentor can significantly impact your success.
Fight, Flight, and Freeze: Your Brain’s Survival Mechanisms
The fight, flight, and freeze responses are your body’s automatic reactions to perceived danger, triggered by trauma reminders. The fight response involves aggression, the flight response involves fleeing, and the freeze response involves feeling stuck. Relaxation techniques, exercise, and a support network can help manage these stress responses. Recognizing and understanding these reactions can aid in coping and reducing triggers.
Moving Forward: Setting Goals for your Future
Setting goals provides direction, focus, and motivation, making you accountable and driving personal growth. By identifying aspirations and setting SMART goals, you create a clear action plan. Stay organized, prioritize tasks, seek support, and celebrate milestones. Overcome challenges with positivity and perseverance, and regularly review and adjust your plans for long-term success.
Building Resilience: Strengthening Your Mental Health
Resilience is the ability to adapt and bounce back from adversity, using challenges to grow and strengthen inner resources. It's essential for overcoming trauma, maintaining purpose, and emerging stronger. Strategies to build resilience include developing a support network, fostering a positive mindset, practicing self-care, setting realistic goals, learning from experience, enhancing problem-solving skills, cultivating flexibility, and seeking professional help when needed.
How to Journal For Mental Health
I've been journaling for almost eight years, and it remains a cherished activity. Journaling offers privacy, routine, and creativity. It allows me to express feelings, track growth, and practice gratitude. Writing down goals and positive affirmations enhances my well-being. Journaling is a personal and valuable tool for self-reflection and stress relief.
Seeking Support: The Role of Relationships in Healing
Experiencing trauma alone can worsen its impact. Building a support network is crucial for processing emotions and preventing chronic stress. Trusted individuals like teachers, counselors, or support groups can provide understanding and guidance. Seeking professional help is also valid and essential for healing. Remember, reaching out is a brave step toward healing and support.
The Power of Mindfulness: Calming your Nervous System
Incorporating mindfulness practices like meditation and mindful breathing can significantly alleviate stress and regulate emotions for those recovering from trauma. These techniques promote awareness, break negative thought patterns, and foster empowerment, aiding in emotional control and better sleep. Mindfulness offers practical tools for daily life to enhance well-being and calm the nervous system.
Science of Stress
Chronic stress, stemming from prolonged exposure to difficult situations, can severely impact physical and mental health. Managing stress through self-care, realistic goal-setting, and seeking support is crucial to prevent conditions like anxiety disorders and heart disease. Deep breathing exercises and grounding techniques can help regain control and reduce the harmful effects of stress.
How Trauma Shapes Your Nervous System
Trauma profoundly impacts the brain's crucial regions like the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus, altering emotional responses, threat perception, and memory. This can lead to chronic stress, emotional instability, memory issues, and challenges in forming relationships, affecting daily life and overall well-being significantly.
Inspiring Words from Brandin Bryant: Navigating Adulthood After Aging Out of Foster Care
Former NFL player Brandin Bryant shares empowering advice for young adults transitioning to the 'real world.' Discover insights on accountability, resilience, and cherishing the journey as you navigate your path to a flourishing future. Embrace the challenges and victories ahead with wisdom and inspiration from those who've walked the path before you.
Finding Your Voice: Healing Through Expression
Self-expression through art forms like drawing, writing, or music can help process trauma beyond words, offering relief and fostering healing. Exploring different creative outlets allows you to find what resonates most, building confidence and providing a healthy way to cope with emotions. Expressing yourself creatively can be a powerful tool on your healing journey.
The Powerful Connection Between Physical Health and Mental Well-being
Exercise is not just for physical health; it's also great for mental well-being. Physical activity releases endorphins, reduces stress and anxiety, and boosts cognitive function. It improves mood, emotional resilience, and self-confidence. To reap these benefits, find enjoyable activities, set realistic goals, and prioritize consistency in your exercise routine.


