COVID-19 is putting incredible pressure on families. Many families are worried about their child’s mental health, but they aren’t sure where to turn or how to get started. HandholdMA.org, a new family-friendly website, can help.

The website, created by a team of mental health and child development experts in partnership with parents who have “been there,” was designed for parents of school-aged children in Massachusetts.

Handhold has three main sections:



• Should I worry? Helps parents explore if their kid is just being a kid, or if their behavior is something to worry about. Parents can learn about signs to look for and get suggestions on what to do next.
• What can I do? Tips, tools, and strategies that have worked for other families, sorted by topic, and picked by Handhold. These are things parents can learn about or do from home.
• Who can help? Carefully selected community organizations and government resources to help families find the right mental health services.

Whatever steps you decide to take, HandholdMA.org offers a variety of tips, tools, and resources to help you take them with confidence.