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Chicago has made one of the most significant investments in youth mental health in the nation, committing tens of millions of dollars to virtual and in-person mental health services for students. But as families across Chicagoland continue to struggle with rising teen anxiety and depression, many parents are asking: are these programs actually working? The answer isn't as straightforward as we might hope, but the data tells an important story about both promise and persistent

If you're a parent in Chicago, here's a number that might stop you in your tracks: 95% of young Chicagoans say mental health is a serious issue affecting people their age. That's not a typo: it's nearly every single young person in our city. But before you panic, take a breath. While this statistic reveals the scope of what we're dealing with, it also shows us something powerful: our youth are aware, they're speaking up, and they're ready for change. And as overwhelming as 9

When families lose access to SNAP benefits, the immediate concern centers on food: but the ripple effects extend far deeper than empty pantries. The psychological toll on young people creates lasting impacts that touch every aspect of their development, from academic performance to social relationships. At MHAGC, we see this connection daily in our work with Chicagoland families. The stress of food insecurity doesn't just affect what's on the dinner table: it fundamentally ch

Fall in Chicago brings its own unique beauty: colorful leaves lining our neighborhoods, crisp air along Lake Michigan, and the return of cozy sweater weather. But for many families across Chicagoland, this season also brings unexpected mental health challenges that catch us off guard. After working with thousands of Chicago families through the Mental Health Association of Greater Chicago, we've noticed some common patterns. Well-meaning parents and caregivers often make the

If you're a parent in Chicagoland, you've probably noticed something troubling: more kids are struggling with anxiety, depression, and emotional challenges than ever before. You're not imagining it, and you're definitely not alone in feeling concerned. Recent data reveals that school mental health providers across the country are reporting significantly worsening student mental health: with some studies showing increases as high as 58% compared to previous years. Here in the

When your child is struggling with mental health challenges, one of the most important decisions you'll face is choosing the right type of care. Should you consider residential treatment facilities, or would community-based services better serve your family? As parents in Chicagoland, you have access to both options, but understanding which approach truly supports lasting recovery can make all the difference in your child's journey toward wellness. The mental health field has

You've probably heard about Cook County's $50 million mental health initiative and wondered: Is this actually going to help my teenager? The short answer is yes, but maybe not in the way you think. This isn't just another program throwing money at the problem – it's a strategic investment designed to fix the underlying issues that have been preventing your teen from getting the support they need. Let's break down what's really happening and what it means for your family. Th

As parents in Chicagoland, we're witnessing unprecedented conversations about youth mental health in our schools and communities. While we navigate these important discussions, Illinois House Bill 2960 represents a groundbreaking student-led effort to bring comprehensive mental health education directly into our children's classrooms. Here's what every parent needs to know about this pending legislation and how it could impact your family's educational experience. 1. This Bi

When your teenager is struggling, the instinct is often to jump straight to professional help. But here's what we've learned through...

Finding the right mental health support for your child or teen can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure where to start. If...

When your teen is struggling with their mental health, traditional therapy offices can feel intimidating. But what if the answer lies...

If you've noticed your teenager seems more comfortable chatting with their phone than with you about their feelings, you're not alone....

If you've noticed your teenager seems more comfortable chatting with their phone than with you about their feelings, you're not alone....

Teen anxiety has reached unprecedented levels across our communities. In Chicago specifically, an overwhelming 94% of youth identify...

When your teen is lying awake at night worrying about deportation, your first instinct is probably to comfort them. You might say, "Don't...

When your teen is lying awake at night worrying about deportation, your first instinct is probably to comfort them. You might say, "Don't...

If you're a parent watching your teenager struggle with mood swings, anxiety, or depression, you might be surprised to learn that the...

When you suspect your teen is having suicidal thoughts, every moment counts. As a Chicagoland parent, you're not alone in this...

You've probably heard it before: "At least my teen is staying connected with friends through their phone" or "Their phone helps them cope...

Technology has transformed how we approach mental health, and AI-powered apps are now part of many families' wellness routines. Here in...