Evidence Compels Us to Take Action

Apple released the first iPhone on June 29, 2007.

YouTube launched two years earlier in 2005. Instagram started in 2010. Snapchat showed up in 2011. TikTok exploded in 2016.

Our kids are using these platforms universally.

Up to 95% of teens (ages 13–17) and 40% of children (ages 8-12) report using social media, according to an advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General.

During this time, our children's mental health has plummeted. Coincidence? More and more evidence is telling us the answer is no.

In many ways, our children are guinea pigs in this high-tech world, and it's time we get more serious about managing it.

This fall, we are hosting two events to talk as a community about our kids and technology, how smartphones and social media are impacting them, and what we collectively can do to reverse the youth mental health crisis.

We hope you'll join us.

Until then, if you are seeking support for yourself and your family, reach out to us. We are here for you.

In this Issue:

• Combatting Cyberbullying
• Reversing the Youth Mental Health Crisis
• New Executive Director Search
• Parent Support Network
• Volunteer Opportunities
• Mental Health Resources

Combatting Cyberbullying

Community Solutions

The Upstanders

Film Screening & Panel Discussion
Sunday, September 22
3pm - 5pm (Doors open @ 2:30pm)
Northbrook Public Library
1201 Cedar Lane

Nearly half of U.S. teens have been bullied or harassed online: it's a growing problem for our youth, their parents, and our schools.

Join us for a free screening of the documentary The Upstanders to learn more about how online hate and bullying impact young people - and how our community can combat it.

Following the screening, stay for a panel discussion featuring local mental health experts, educators, and students moderated by Cook County Commissioner Scott Britton. 

CATCH and the following organizations are sponsoring this program as part of United Against Hate Week.

The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center is also supporting this event.

How to Reverse the Youth Mental Health Crisis

Monday, September 30 @ 7pm
Northbrook United Methodist Church
1190 Western Ave.

Join us for an interactive discussion about overparenting in the real world and under parenting online, led by Dr. Lisa Novak, clinical psychologist, and based on Jonathan Haidt’s book, The Anxious Generation.

Now is the time to unite and make a change.

No time to read the book? Watch this summary or listen to this podcast.

Recordings of many previous CATCH events are available on the CATCH YouTube Channel.

Seeking New Executive Director

Do you have experience with children's mental health issues and a passion for CATCH's mission to empower families to foster resilience and prioritize mental health and emotional wellness in their children?

Perhaps you are our next Executive Director?!

Our board of directors is welcoming applications for the part-time position.

A chance to join the CATCH team is truly a unique and gratifying opportunity. 

Parent Support Network

Parents Connect: Peer Support

New Groups Forming Now

Plenty of parents are facing challenges raising children with mental health struggles. 

When we come together and support one another, we build a community that makes each day easier. 

Parents Connect groups are meeting weekly. 

Find the one that's right for you.

CATCH Conversations

Are your child's mental health struggles impacting you and your family? Are you wondering how to start finding help?

We recommend seeking support for yourself first with a CATCH Conversation.

Sign up and a CATCH volunteer will reach out to schedule a time to talk, meet for a cup of coffee, or go for a walk to give you a chance to share what's going on and learn how CATCH can support you. 

Looking for professional support?

CATCH is here to help you find a mental health provider.

Look through our lists of providers or send a confidential email to CATCH, and we will provide you with names of trusted practices that might meet your needs. 

Volunteer Opportunities

Represent CATCH at Your Child's School

Are you interested in ensuring CATCH and mental health are front and center at your child's school? 

We need you! 

We are seeking enthusiastic parent representation at every school in Northbrook, Glenview District 34, and Glenbrook North and South High Schools.

Join us! Share the spot with a friend! 

It's easy and really important. 

Reach out to Stacy Mautner at stacy@catchiscommunity.org or

Jen Diehl at jen@catchiscommunity.org to learn more. 

Get Involved with CATCH

We'll find the role that suits you!

Want to take on a small task, a short-term project, or join a committee?

There's plenty to do at CATCH, and we'd love your help.

Click on the link below to let us know your interests and availability, and our volunteer coordinator will reach out and help you find the right place to start.

"By donating my time to CATCH, I've made amazing friends who understand me, and I've learned how to be a better parent. My whole family benefits!"

-CATCH volunteer

Mental Health Resources

Back to School Skills Refresher Group

The North Suburban Center for Anxiety is hosting a weekly group for girls (ages 8-13) to review and practice coping skills to help manage anxiety.

Thursdays 8/22-9/26, exact time tbd

Register:
jwelbel@nscenterforanxiety.com
mcentlivre@nscenterforanxiety.com

224-326-0096

More info

6 Tips to Help Children Navigate Social Media

This summer, the U.S. Surgeon General called on social media platforms to include health warnings for young users. In response, Compass Health Center's Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer, Claudia Welke, MD, spoke to NBC Chicago about intervention strategies for parents.

Watch & Read

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