Anxiety tired student business woman

How the Mental Health Community Can Respond to Rising Anxiety: A Panel Discussion

Fairfield University’s School of Education and Human Development (SEHD) will host a panel discussion: “Anxious America: Mental Health & Healing in the Era of Anxiety” on Monday evening, Sept. 29. In a time marked by cultural unrest, pandemic aftershocks, social media saturation, academic pressure, and collective unease, anxiety in America has reached unprecedented levels across all age groups and sectors. Moderated by Dean Evelyn Bilias Lolis, PhD, the event will bring together cross-disciplinary experts to examine the impact of anxiety and explore how educators, healthcare and mental health clinicians, families, spiritual advisors, and community partners can respond with empathy, strategy and systems of care. The panel will feature:

• Natasha Booker, PhD, LCSW – Clinical Social Worker and Private Practitioner; Professor of the Practice and Field Clinical Director, MSW Program

• Danielle Conklin, DNP – Psychiatric Nurse; Assistant Professor, PMHNP Program

• Martin Pino, PsyD – Clinical Psychologist; Assistant Vice President, Health & Wellness, Fairfield University

• Michael J. Testani – Superintendent, Fairfield Public Schools

Prior to the panel discussion, attendees will have an opportunity to connect with helpful campus and community resources that support students’ minds, bodies, and spirits.

Technology AI A.I. and teens SQUARE

Presentation: When Teens Turn to AI for Advice — What Parents and Other Adults Need to Know

Download PDF

A therapy center in Cos Cob will host a free seminar next week on hidden risks and potential benefits of adolescents and young adults turning to AI companions and chatbots for emotional support. — an announcement from the Growth & Resilience Group

The Growth & Resilience Group seminar, “When Teens Turn to AI for Advice: What Parents Need to Know,” is an hour-long interactive session to help attendees:
• Understand why teens are drawn to AI companions and what needs these tools appear to meet. • Explore the hidden risks: misinformation, unhealthy attachments, privacy concerns, and distorted development. • Hear about the possible benefits of AI for learning, creativity, and safe exploration — and how to encourage healthy use. • Learn practical questions and conversation starters to use with your child.