PAOLI, Ind. – Anxiety and depression may seem like adult issues to many, but Hoosier children also struggle with these conditions. According to data compiled in the Indiana Youth Institute’s 2017 KIDS COUNT in Indiana Data Book, depression is the most prevalent mental disorder experienced among adolescents. Young people who experience anxiety or depression are more likely than their peers to engage in risky behaviors and to struggle with school or work.
The Indiana Youth Institute and IU Health Paoli are hosting an event for parents, teachers, youth workers, community leaders and other caring adults to learn more about the impact anxiety and depression have on children. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, September 14 at Super Burger, 600 West Main Street in Paoli.
Janie Chappell with Deaconess Cross Pointe will speak to attendees about how anxiety and depression can affect all aspects of a child’s life. Attendees will learn to identify the signs of these conditions in a child and strategies for helping young people who experience anxiety and/or depression. In addition, Chappell also will discuss self-care methods for the adults who work with these children.
As part of IYI’s Youth Worker Café program, the event and lunch are free, but reservations are required. RSVP at www.iyi.org/ywc. If you have trouble with the link, please contact IYI Statewide Outreach Manager Debbie Jones at djones@iyi.org. For more information on the Youth Worker Café, contact IYI Southwest Indiana Outreach Manager Joe Shrode atjshrode@iyi.org.
Youth Worker Cafés are designed to bring together local youth workers to build relationships and inspire collaborations that will benefit children.
