Letter to the Editor:
As families across Fairfield County navigate rising levels of stress, anxiety, and academic pressure among children and teens, a local community group is stepping in with practical support.
In recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month, the Greenwich Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) will host a free virtual event designed to give parents real tools they can use immediately.
The event, “Raising Resilient Kids: Practical Strategies for Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health and Well-Being,” will take place on Wednesday, May 6 at 7:00 PM via Zoom and is open to all parents, educators, caregivers, and community members across Fairfield County and Connecticut.
Recent national data shows that 1 in 5 children experience a mental health challenge each year, and more than 40% of high school students report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness. For many families, these trends are no longer abstract—they are showing up in everyday life.
“Parents are asking important questions right now—how do we support our kids through stress, anxiety, and increasing pressures?” said John S. Hamel, Jr., Parent and Chairman of the Enrichment Committee of Greenwich SEAC. “This event is about providing practical strategies families can use right away.”
The session will feature Jen Libby, MSW, LCSW, Founder and CEO of Promly, who will share actionable guidance on:
Recognizing early signs of stress and anxiety
Strengthening communication with children and teens
Building resilience, confidence, and emotional well-being
While SEAC’s mission focuses on supporting students with disabilities, this event reflects a broader commitment to the well-being of all children and families in the community. The Greenwich SEAC works to build strong partnerships between families, schools, and community stakeholders, and provides advisory input to the Board of Education on matters related to the education and safety of students with disabilities.
Organizers say the goal of this event is simple: to create a space where parents feel informed, supported, and better equipped to help their children navigate today’s challenges.
The event is free to attend, though registration is required. Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/FFKe-XPoQHeLe0ei1-YcKw
John Hamel
