V-A-R®, Validate-Appreciate-Refer, is Active Minds’ everyday tool for everyday conversations. It’s about showing up for one another every day in meaningful ways.

Validate, Appreciate, Refer® are three easy-to-use steps that provide a path to listening and responding in a helpful way.

V-A-R conversations can take many forms — phone, in-person, text message, video call. No matter the format, what matters most is being there and showing that you care.