At Pace Center for Girls, we know that teen girls today face growing pressures—at home, at school, and online. That’s why, during Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re sharing simple, practical strategies that help build emotional resilience and support girls’ mental wellbeing every day.

Whether you’re a student, caregiver, teacher, or mentor, these tools can make a meaningful difference in a girl’s ability to thrive.

1. Build a Healthy Sleep Routine

For teen girls, sleep is essential—but often overlooked. Establishing a regular sleep schedule can help girls feel more emotionally balanced and focused. Encourage:

  • A consistent bedtime and wake time
  • Reducing screen time 30–60 minutes before bed
  • Creating a calming nighttime ritual like stretching or journaling

Why it matters: A well-rested brain is better equipped to handle stress, regulate emotions, and focus in school. At Pace, we help girls understand how habits like sleep hygiene can support their overall health and academic success.

2. Practice Grounding Techniques

Grounding exercises help girls reconnect with their bodies and feel safe during stressful moments. These can be easily taught and practiced at home or in the classroom:

  • 5-4-3-2-1 technique: Identify 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste
  • Body scan: Slowly notice sensations in each part of the body
  • Meditation: Focus on breathing for a few minutes
  • Deep breathing: Inhale through the nose, hold briefly, exhale slowly through the mouth

Why it matters: Grounding helps regulate the nervous system, increases focus, and builds emotional awareness. At Pace, we integrate mindfulness into our daily routines to help girls feel centered and in control.

3. Set Healthy Screen Boundaries

Social media can be both a connection and a challenge for teen girls. Encourage them to take intentional breaks from screens and replace that time with activities that recharge them—like going outside, drawing, or calling a friend.

Why it matters: Reducing passive scrolling supports better sleep, clearer thinking, and more meaningful engagement with the world around them. At Pace, we guide girls to develop healthy digital habits as part of their emotional growth.

4. Do One Meaningful Task Each Day

Encouraging girls to focus on one purposeful activity each day—like helping a friend, completing an assignment, or trying something creative—can increase motivation and confidence.

Why it matters: Feeling capable and connected to their values empowers girls to make positive choices. Through our strengths-based approach, Pace helps girls set goals, celebrate progress, and recognize their worth.

5. Connect with One Safe Person

Strong, supportive relationships are vital for girls’ mental health. Whether it’s a mentor, parent, friend, or counselor, encourage girls to talk with someone they trust each day.

Why it matters: Regular connection builds a sense of safety, belonging, and resilience. At Pace, girls are surrounded by a network of caring adults who listen, believe in them, and walk alongside them in their journey.

Mental Health Is a Lifelong Journey—And No Girl Should Walk It Alone

At Pace Center for Girls, we create a safe and inclusive space where every girl can build the skills and confidence to overcome life’s challenges. Mental health support is woven into everything we do—from counseling and academic guidance to life skills and community connection.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s continue to lift up teen girls, champion their stories, and invest in their wellbeing. If you know a girl who could benefit from Pace, learn more about our programs and services here.