Caring Contacts

When life becomes overwhelming, even a simple message of care can spark hope. That’s the idea behind Caring Contacts, a program implemented by Children’s Nebraska.

The time after a mental health crisis can feel uncertain. Caring Contacts helps fill that space with ongoing support through a series of handwritten notes. Each one is a thoughtful reminder that someone cares, and support is always within reach.

What is Caring Contacts?

Caring Contacts is a suicide prevention program that provides consistent follow-up for patients who noted mental health concerns. With a guardian’s permission, participants receive a series of six handwritten notes from a familiar Children’s team member over the course of a year. Each personalized, hopeful note reminds them they are cared for, valued and never alone.

The initiative was launched in 2020 at Children’s, adapted from a similar approach developed in the 1970s by psychiatrist Jerome Motto. He used letters to support adults recovering from substance use and mental health conditions. We became the first health system in the nation to bring this proven approach to pediatric patients.

Program Success and Impact

Since its launch, Caring Contacts has been successful in meeting its goals. The program has enrolled more than 1,400 patients who have received thousands of notes. Among those enrolled, there have been zero deaths by suicide.

The impact is real. Families consistently share that the program helped their child feel seen, supported and connected during a vulnerable time. For many participants, the letters become treasured keepsakes and reminders of hope.

“Thank you for being there when I needed it the most, and for playing such a significant role in my journey toward healing and growth.” – Program participant

Breaking Stigma, Building Connection

Talking about mental health isn’t always easy. Caring Contacts helps normalize the conversation. We’re showing families that consistent, compassionate follow-up is a standard part of care and helps:

• Change community perceptions: Each note helps families see that reaching out for help is a strength, not a stigma.

• Create connection: Over time, these small acts build a trusting relationship between patients and our Behavioral Health team.

• Offer ongoing support: Regular outreach over a year helps children and teens feel remembered and supported beyond their hospital or clinic visits.

Caring for the whole person — including mental and emotional wellbeing — is at the heart of what we do, because every child deserves to know they matter.

When you come to us, you can expect:

• A program just for children and teens: We’ve tailored our program to meet the unique needs of young patients, helping set a new standard of care across the country.

• A team that does it all: Our team provides the region’s most complete pediatric behavioral health services, including counseling, psychiatry, social work and follow-up care.

• A hub for support: The Behavioral Health & Wellness Center is the area’s first pediatric-focuses center where families can access all the mental health support they need in one place.

• A leader in the field: We’re helping other medical centers replicate Caring Contacts, so more communities can benefit from this life-changing approach. To date, more than 70 hospitals nationwide have adopted components of the program.

Know the Signs of Depression in Kids and Teens

Parents sometimes wonder: “How do I know if my child is depressed?” or “What should I do if my child is always sad?” While every child is different, you may notice unusual symptoms that signal they need support, such as:

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Trouble focusing or declining school performance

• Saying they feel hopeless or like they are a burden

• Feeling sad, angry or irritable most of the time

• Pulling away from friends, family or activities they once enjoyed

Some warning signs of suicide require immediate attention, including:

• Giving away personal items or saying goodbye in a serious way

• Taking more risks or acting dangerously

• Acting suddenly calm after being very sad or upset

• Talking about wanting to die or expressing thoughts of suicide

If you notice these changes, it’s important to know where to turn. A school counselor, pediatrician or mental health provider is often a good first step. At Children’s, our Behavioral Health team connects your child to support groups, counseling, therapy, psychiatric care and other treatment options tailored to their needs.

Who Do I Call if My Child Has Thoughts of Suicide?

If your child is experiencing a mental health crisis, seek help right away:

• Call 911 if your child is in immediate danger.

• Dial or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), for confidential support from trained counselors, available 24/7.

You can also come directly to our Emergency Department or Behavioral Health & Wellness Center. Our providers are specially trained to care for children in crisis and will guide you through the next steps.