Special Olympics Strong Minds Program

Strong Minds from Special Olympics is a resource focused on building mental wellness and emotional health. It offers strategies for managing stress, building confidence, and maintaining a strong mind through activities such as deep breathing, stretching, positive affirmations, healthy sleep habits, physical activity, connecting with others, and seeking help when needed. The resource uses simple language, visuals, quizzes, and step-by-step activities to help individuals learn and practice skills for managing emotions and supporting mental health.

This resource can be used by individuals, families/caregivers, educators, and health care providers to teach and practice self-care, stress management, and emotional regulation skills. It can support individuals with I/DD in identifying supportive coping strategies, recognizing when they need help, and building routines that promote mental wellness. Activities such as breathing exercises, stretching, and affirmations can be practiced during sessions or incorporated into daily routines to help individuals feel more confident and better prepared to manage stressful situations.