Therapeutic Tool to help Reduce Anxiety in Youth

During the global pandemic, Ashley Hermes and Mia DiMola couldn’t help but notice the drastic and increasing need for youth clientele struggling with anxiety and stress. In 2020, 6,155,852 children in the US were prescribed psychiatric medicines. Of those, 418,425 were between 0 and 5 years (CCHRI, 2022). In 2021 Hermes and DiMola created their company, Turtleback Ridge, to help 1 in 5 families with youth who suffer from anxiety and struggle with self-regulation (NAMI, 2022). Ashley (social worker) and Mia (Marriage and Family Therapist) created a tangible therapeutic tool for children of all ages to utilize when they are feeling most triggered by stress and anxiety. A tool that is an arm’s reach away and accessible anytime, anywhere.

We want to introduce the Ridgets - animal characters with human-like functions and emotions with their own unique story. Ridgets are regulated breathing necklaces/keychains that help manage anxiety in stressful situations. They use calibrated breathing strategies to physiologically slow the heart rate, lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormones. Ashley and Mia also created a line of children’s books that introduce all of the Ridget characters and their individual struggles with common challenges that youth face more than ever before (e.g., ADHD, ODD, BDD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, etc.). The goal is to destigmatize these struggles and focus on the positive attributes, instead of the deficits, that come from these diagnoses. The books will guide youth towards healthy coping mechanisms and problem-solving techniques. Ridgets and Ridget Reeds (books) will benefit teachers, therapists, parents, and future generations by cultivating more peace and presence in their lives.

Tanu the turtle (the main character) is the first Ridget to be released, along with his storybook. Will you help us fulfill our dream and more importantly, help youth worldwide manage anxiety. Not only are they addressing their struggles immediately in that moment, but they are learning a lifelong, healthy coping mechanism. Please help us reach our goals with any amount of donation you are able to give. Please see our website and social media platforms if you want to pre-order a Ridget and/or Reed!