Nashua-based program helps families handle stress

NASHUA – As people prepare for the holidays, stress levels can rise from financial stress, school-related stress and normal family stressors. If you have a child or teen who isn’t following rules, isn’t actively participating in school and is making risky decisions, this can add to the burden that parents are already facing. Thanks to a partnership between The Youth Council, the Nashua Children’s Home and the city of Nashua, families are now able to enroll in the Community Intervention Collaboration to help reduce their stress. Starting with an assessment with a master-level counselor, families are able to get to the root of their child’s behaviors and identify goals, and are then linked to supportive community resources to help them work toward their goals. They then participate in a 12-week follow-up to ensure they’re making progress, and additional resources are offered in the event the family needs more help. “This program is voluntary,” Youth Council Director Betsy Houde said. “It’s designed for Nashua parents that are committed to getting back on track, before their child winds up being arrested or dropping out of school.” Funded initially through a pilot grant from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation and the Clowes Fund, a grant from the city allows the program to be offered on a sliding scale. Houde said the program can accept up to three new families each week and currently has openings. For more information, call 889-1090 and ask for the intake counselor or visit www.theyouthcouncil.org.