Join Us for a Vital Discussion: Teen Mental Health Forum on May 7 at Hills – Hosted by Pascack Press & Northern Valley Press

Join us on Wednesday, May 7 at 7 p.m. at the Pascack Hills High School Media Center for an engaging discussion about rising youth anxiety. This event is open to parents, teachers, students, and community members.

We’ll delve into the themes of The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt. Whether or not you’ve read the book, your voice matters in this conversation. It’s a safe space to share experiences and learn about the challenges surrounding youth mental health.

Haidt, a respected social psychologist, highlights the stark increase in mental health issues among adolescents. Since the early 2010s, rates of depression, anxiety, and self-harm have more than doubled. His work connects these rising problems to the influence of smartphones and social media in children’s lives. In his book, he describes how this shift disrupted childhood development, introducing issues like sleep deprivation and social comparison.

According to a 2023 study from the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in three teens showed signs of anxiety or depression, a significant increase compared to a decade ago. This emphasizes the urgency of addressing mental health in our communities.

The Hills Valley Coalition for Resilient Youth (HVC) is co-hosting this important event. HVC brings together parents, students, local businesses, and community leaders from four towns to foster a supportive environment for youth. Their mission is to promote healthy, substance-free living and resilient communities.

Come share your thoughts, listen to others, and take part in a vital discussion on how we can help our youth thrive. For more about HVC and to explore further resources, check out their website at hillsvalleycoalition.org.

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