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Ageing As people age, they commonly face many changes and losses. Grieving for these, and adjusting to new circumstances, can be hard. As people age, they commonly face many changes and losses. Grieving for these, and adjusting to new circumstances, can be hard. Aging is a normal stage of life, with many gains and things to enjoy. However, it brings challenges too. We know that older people face gradual physical changes, but the challenges of aging aren’t only physical. Aging involves a succession of changes and losses, big and small, which can be gradual or sudden. Consequently, older people continually need to adjust. It can feel like they have less and less control over how they want things to be. What’s been lost, can be hard to come to terms with. Such losses naturally affect how people see themselves and their lives, as well as their levels of self-confidence, mood and outlook, overall well-being, and sense of future. Common losses include: The end of employed work after retirement or job loss. This can also mean a changed daily routine, not seeing workmates as before, and needing a new sense of purpose. Financial changes . For most, income levels will decrease when work finishes. Financial worries may increase, with limited dollars to fund current and future needs. Changes in one’s physical body and health . Health challenges typically increase with age. As the physical body ages, people commonly begin to encounter changes in abilities such as eyesight, hearing, balance, continence, or mobility. Loss of memory . It becomes harder to remember things, even if the information is important. This can be very frustrating. Dementia can complicate this further. Loss of independence . A new reliance on others to assist with daily life, and not always being able to do what they want, when they want, how they want. People may need to stop driving. They may need others for the most personal care and hygiene routines. Loss of familiar surroundings. People might need to move away from a home they have lived in for a long time, or from one they do not want to leave. They may also need to give away personal possessions they’re unable to keep. Loss of friends and family . There can be changes in the circle of friends and family. Others may now live at a distance and visit less, or older friends may become ill themselves and unable to keep in touch, and perhaps loved ones may die. Also, older people can become socially isolated if they are less able to join in with life as before. Loss of respect . After years of contributing to family, whānau, and community, as well as being employers or employees, older people can feel side-lined, without status, and less respected. What can help? People respond in individual ways to life challenges. To be in a good position to deal with whatever comes with aging, it can help to: draw on your internal resilience (what attitudes and coping strategies have worked well for you before?) be willing to try new ways of doing things and problem-solve as positively as possible honestly acknowledge challenges and losses, so they can be faced make time to grieve losses in your own way – grief is a normal healing process that can help you gradually adjust to changes communicate how you’re thinking and feeling, and what you’re needing – find someone you trust to talk to when things feel hard or overwhelming, such as your GP, a good friend, a caregiver, a Counsellor, or perhaps call a helpline express and release what’s building up inside (e.g. talk, cry, share memory stories, write down troubling thoughts and feelings, or play music that reflects your mood, walk it out) look after yourself well every day, paying attention to getting some exercise, good rest, and having a nutritious diet keep connected with others – make time to be social and keep in touch with friends and family often use your sense of humour and spend time with those who laugh and have fun do enjoyable things and go to enjoyable places that lift your spirit ask a friend to support you at events or appointments that are stressful for you use your abilities and strengths, whatever age you are, to contribute to things and give you a sense of achievement do things that are meaningful for you or have a sense of purpose find some ways to support others who are finding things challenging too remember the good things life has taught you and brought you ask for help when you need it see a GP about any health or mental health concerns. You might also be interested in: How to build resilience Delayed grief Subscribe to our newsletter Looking for more support? Get insights, tools, and stories from Skylight — and a free guide to help you get started. You can unsubscribe at any time. First name Email address* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Subscribe By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Pathfinders A wellbeing programme for young women and non-binary individuals aged 12 - 16. Pathfinders Wellbeing Programme Rangatahi today face increasing social and emotional pressures. Pathfinders gives them tools to navigate those challenges, while helping them feel proud of their identity, voice, and story. Pathfinders is a free, creative wellbeing programme developed by Skylight, designed for young women and non-binary youth aged 12–16. Through engaging activities, kōrero, and art, participants explore their identity, build resilience, and grow their confidence — all in a safe and inclusive space. Pathfinders offers a unique, low-intervention approach that blends: Psychoeducation – learning about mental health, identity, and resilience in a way that makes sense Kōrero – guided discussions and reflections on self, whānau, whakapapa and life experiences Creative Arts – hands-on projects that allow rangatahi to express their identity and explore what makes them unique The Pathfinders journey helps those taking part to: Celebrate their whakapapa, whānau and sense of self Feel more confident and connected to who they are Learn skills to support their emotional wellbeing and resilience Discover how to lead with courage, strength, and self-belief This programme has seen over 1,500 rangatahi taking part in this successful programme which is delivered in schools, community groups, and Skylight’s own spaces. “I have learnt to be proud of my identity and where I come from.” “I’ve learnt new skills and a better understanding of myself.” For more information or to arrange a presentation at your school or community space, please contact us at: [email protected] You might also be interested in: Travellers Tai-oranga Matika Pathfinders Awhi Mai Awhi Atu

Depression Depression is a common illness and needs to be taken seriously. It affects how you feel, the way you think, and the way you act. Depression is more than just feeling a bit down. Feeling stressed, irritable, sad, angry, hopeless, or empty happens to all of us, sometimes. Depression is getting stuck in those feelings, and it doesn't seem like they're going away. They get in the way of daily functioning, relating to people or thinking clearly. People find it hard to talk about feeling low or depressed. There is still a stigma attached to mental illness of any kind. A person may be depressed if they: feel sad or down for a long time - weeks or months don't care about things they used to enjoy sleep a lot or not enough lose or gain weight, or have a different appetite for food can't concentrate feel tired or low in energy feel empty or lonely have unexplained aches and pains, pounding heart or stomach cramps feel guilty, worthless, or hopeless about the future are angrier or more hostile than usual use drugs and alcohol to cope with their feelings harm or hurt themselves on purpose talk about suicide or say they want to die. It is important to find the right help. Depression can be treated. For mild depression, self-help strategies like regular exercise, mindfulness, good sleep, can be helpful. For more severe depression, see your GP who can help you decide about medication, counselling and/or psychological therapy. Helpful youth websites include: SPARX  which is a free online therapy that helps young people learn skills to deal with feeling down, depressed, or stressed and The Lowdown For further information see attachments and links . Common Ground - The Mental Wealth Project Depression | Mental Health Foundation Home | Depression and Anxiety | Depression and Anxiety | Welcome to a Brand New Day You might also be interested in: Anxiety Bereavement Loss of health Subscribe to our newsletter Looking for more support? Get insights, tools, and stories from Skylight — and a free guide to help you get started. You can unsubscribe at any time. First name Email address* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Subscribe By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Our supporters We want to say a huge thank you to all of our funders and supporters. Your support means Skylight can deliver the right help at the right time in the right way. Many thanks to our partners and supporters: Ministry of Education Ministry of Justice Oranga Tamariki Te Whatu Ora Lottery Grants Board & COGS - Community Organisations Grants Scheme Dentons B UPA The Good Registry A NZ Staff Foundation H aven Falls Harbour City Funeral Home F reshChoice Cuba Street New World Wellington City Skylight receives a percentage of our supporters total sale through their community sponsorship scheme. All you need to do is have your receipt stamped at the customer service desk and put it into the Skylight collection box. If you need the original receipt, you can ask for a duplicate copy at the time of purchase. And to all of the individuals who donate, thank you! You might also be interested in: Our impact Our story Advocacy Our partners

Kathryn Ross CEO About me After more than 30 years in local and central government in a variety of roles. I joined Skylight because of its mission and values. I love the for-purpose sector and I’m very proud to lead the team. I am committed to improving the lives of tamariki and rangatahi across the motu, empowering our people and the equitable achievement of hauora. I’m very lucky to have a loving (and patient) husband and two wonderful children. Away from the office, I enjoy catching up with whānau and friends, spending time in nature, great coffee, pinot and travel. Next Previous

Our impact Skylight supports thousands of individuals, schools, and whānau across Aotearoa each year with tools to navigate grief, loss, and life’s challenges. Our impact is backed by research and felt in classrooms, counselling rooms, and communities nationwide. At Skylight Trust, our work is grounded in the belief that every person deserves the tools and support to navigate life’s challenges and thrive. From emotional resilience programmes to resources for families experiencing grief and trauma, our impact is wide-reaching and deeply felt. We are proud to share just some of the ways we are making a difference across Aotearoa. Building Resilience Through Travellers Our flagship programme, Travellers , supports Year 9 students navigating the complex transition into high school. Delivered in schools nationwide, the programme builds resilience and key life skills through small group sessions that explore topics like identity, emotions, support networks, and problem-solving. In 2023, more than 4400 students completed our online wellness survey, with over 400 participating in Travellers groups. A recent independent evaluation by ImpactLab revealed that for every $1 invested in Travellers, $3.30 of measurable social good is returned to New Zealand. This equates to $2,563 of social value generated per participant, with outcomes including improved mental health, increased academic achievement, and reduced risky behaviour. Empowering Schools and Educators We train over 100 school staff each year to become Travellers facilitators. Feedback from our trainings continues to be overwhelmingly positive, with facilitators reporting increased confidence in supporting students through change, loss, and transitions. We also provide access to an evolving library of tools and resources to help schools support student wellbeing more holistically. Whānau Support in Times of Grief and Change Skylight offers counselling and resources to whānau facing grief, loss, trauma, and big life changes. Our resources range from books and care packs to therapeutic support and tailored workshops. In the past year, over 14,000 resources were distributed to individuals, families, and professionals across the country. Focus on Equity and Cultural Safety We are committed to supporting equity and cultural safety in all that we do. We continue to work with Māori and Pasifika advisors to ensure our programmes are responsive to the diverse cultural identities of the rangatahi we serve. In 2023, 13% of our participants identified as Māori and 10% as Pasifika. Growing Our Reach From small beginnings, Skylight has grown into a national presence. Last year alone, we supported thousands of individuals, hundreds of schools, and a growing network of professionals committed to mental wellbeing. We are currently piloting new tools, including a digital wellbeing survey platform and updated Travellers content for 2025. Annual reports 2024 - 2025 2023 - 2024 2022 - 2023 2021 - 2022 2020 - 2021 2019 - 2020 2018 - 2019 2017 - 2018 2016 - 2017 2015 - 2016 2014 - 2015 2013 - 2014 2012 - 2013 2011 - 2012 2010 - 2011 You might also be interested in: Te Kunenga Māori Strategy and Action Plan 2025 Advocacy Our partners Contact us Work with us Fundraising ideas

Brittany shares their story This webisode features Brittany sharing their story of how they have survived suicide or lost a friend or whānau member to suicide – it is for rangatahi by rangatahi. The personal experiences shared in the following video may be disturbing for some viewers as they talk about suicide. You might also be interested in: Trevney shares his story Journeys Through Methamphetamine Addiction Matty - Resilience Web Series Mana - Resilience Web Series Jahnya shares her story Brittany shares their story McKay - Resilience Web Series Rose - Resilience Web Series Melissa - Resilience Web Series Bella - Resilience Web Series

How to build resilience “Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.” - Steve Maraboli What is Resilience? Resilience is the ability to adapt well in the face of adversity, trauma, or significant stress, such as family or relationship problems, health challenges, workplace difficulties, or financial pressures. It is often described as “bouncing back” from hardship, learning from those experiences, and facing new challenges with greater strength. Resilience is not a rare trait. Most people demonstrate it in their everyday lives, often without realising it. Being resilient does not mean you do not experience hardship, sadness, or emotional pain. Rather, it means you have developed thoughts, behaviours, and actions that help you navigate and recover from life’s difficulties. The Foundations of Resilience A key factor in building resilience is having strong, supportive relationships within your whānau, family, friendship groups, and wider community. These connections offer encouragement, reassurance, and a stable network to lean on during tough times. Other important factors include: The ability to view crises as manageable Acceptance that change is part of life Confidence in your problem-solving skills Maintaining hope and optimism for the future Taking care of your physical, mental, social, and spiritual wellbeing Strategies to Build Resilience Everyone develops resilience differently, but the following approaches can help individuals, families, groups, and communities strengthen it: Connect with others Build and nurture relationships with whānau, friends, and colleagues. Join community groups, clubs, or volunteer organisations to expand your support network. See challenging events as something you can manage You may not control the event, but you can control your response. Focus on the fact that challenges are temporary and that you will get through them. Accept change as part of life Some goals may no longer be possible after a major change, but you can set new ones that fit your circumstances. Set realistic goals Break long-term goals into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrate progress along the way. Take action Address problems directly rather than avoiding them. Small, proactive steps make a big difference. See opportunities in challenges Difficult times can help you discover new strengths, build skills, and deepen relationships. Think positively about yourself Trust your abilities and your capacity to solve problems. Keep things in perspective Avoid magnifying problems and consider them in a broader context. Be optimistic Expect that good things can and will happen in your life. Look after yourself Exercise, eat well, get enough rest, spend time with loved-ones, and make time for activities that restore your energy. Get to know yourself Reflect on your experiences, values, and coping strategies. Journaling or meditation can help you understand what works best for you. Expect setbacks and keep going Progress is not always smooth, but persistence builds strength. Useful links: Resilience Coping with stress - InfoAboutKids Youthsay - Resources for kaimahi working with rangatahi Self-care and managing stress and building resilience | Mind You might also be interested in: Helping Tamariki and Rangatahi Cope with Natural Disasters Trauma Delayed grief Loss of job Subscribe to our newsletter Looking for more support? Get insights, tools, and stories from Skylight — and a free guide to help you get started. You can unsubscribe at any time. First name Email address* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Subscribe By submitting this form, you consent and agree to Skylight Trust collecting and handling your personal information in accordance with our privacy policy . If you have any questions or wish to view or amend your information, please email us at [email protected]

Is a Worry Worrying You? An introduction to understanding worries and anxiety You might also be interested in: Practical Strategies for Self-Care and Resilience Good Mood and Food

Maggie Horrell Creative Arts Therapist About me Maggie Horrell (she/her/ia) a Creative Arts Therapist (MACAT) hailing from the south. She has a background in English and Classical Literature and spent seven years as a Seed Analyst which means her obscure knowledge is top notch. In her clinical work, Maggie is passionate about offering people of all ages the opportunity to express themselves through creativity and cultivates curiosity and wonderment in her therapeutic practice. She has worked with a diverse range of clients – from tamariki to rangatahi in schools, group work with older adults with cognitive and/or physical disabilities and facilitating wellbeing sessions for rest home residents with dementia. Maggie is usually seen sporting a handmade or vintage outfit and will easily spend all her spare time in her home sewing studio surrounded by house plants. Next Previous

Guide for parents and carers Caring for a child or young person through grief, change, or distress can feel overwhelming. Skylight is here to support you with tools, guidance, and counselling to help your whānau move through tough times together. At Skylight, we know how tough it can be to support a child or young person who’s going through grief, loss, trauma or big changes. You might be unsure what to say, how to help, or where to turn for support — and you’re not alone. We’re here to walk alongside you. Skylight offers a wide range of free and low-cost services to help whānau through difficult times. This includes one-on-one counselling for tamariki, rangatahi and parents, as well as a library of practical resources designed specifically for families navigating change. From books and care packs to group programmes and online tools, our goal is to provide information and support that’s grounded in compassion, evidence, and real-life experience. We also offer tailored guidance for parents, carers and guardians — whether you're coping with a recent bereavement, helping a child through anxiety, or managing complex family transitions like separation or illness. Whatever your situation, we can help you find the right tools and approaches to support your child and yourself. If you're not sure where to start, reach out. Our team is kind, knowledgeable, and here to listen. We’ll help you figure out what’s available and what might work best for you and your whānau. You might also be interested in: Guide for young people Guide for schools Other organisations that can help Request a support pack

Travellers Travellers is a school-based resilience programme designed for Year 9 students navigating challenging life transitions. Empowering young people to navigate life’s journey. Travellers is a nationally recognised, school-based programme developed by Skylight in partnership with the Ministry of Health. Designed for Year 9 students navigating challenging life transitions—such as loss, family change, or starting secondary school—Travellers builds the essential life skills of resilience, confidence, self-esteem, and emotional wellbeing . Through the powerful metaphor that "life is a journey," students explore their own stories, challenges, and strengths in a small-group setting led by trained facilitators. Travellers has supported thousands of young people across Aotearoa since its launch in 2001, and is backed by ongoing research, evaluation, and a trusted reputation in schools. A recent independent evaluation by ImpactLab revealed that for every $1 invested in Travellers, $3.30 of measurable social good is returned to New Zealand. This equates to $2,563 of social value generated per participant, with outcomes including improved mental health, increased academic achievement, and reduced risky behaviour. About the Training This two-day immersive workshop is your opportunity to become a Travellers Facilitator. Designed primarily for school guidance counsellors and pastoral care staff, it equips you to deliver the programme with confidence, care, and creativity. What to expect: Experience Travellers from the inside out – participate as both a student and a facilitator to gain deep insight into the programme. Explore the ‘life journey’ framework and learn how to guide students through eight interactive, themed sessions. Hands-on, practical training facilitated by Skylight’s experienced trainers. Learn about the full Travellers kit , including manuals, tools, and access to the online student wellbeing survey. By the end of the training, you’ll be ready to lead impactful groups that help students recognise their strengths, process change, and build lasting connections—all within a safe, supportive environment. Dates and locations Contact [email protected] for more information or to enquire about 2026 trainings. You might also be interested in: Tai-oranga Matika Pathfinders Awhi Mai Awhi Atu