clairestew

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 challenges in...

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 95% sounds, there...

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 changes how young...