Supporting Youth with Depression During the Pandemic and Beyond: What Families, Schools, and Communities Can Do
December 01, 2021 | | | | | | |
Making a Difference Conference of the Recruitment, Training and Support Center (RTSC) for Special Education Surrogate Parents (SESPs), A Project of the Federation for Children with Special Needs

Dr. Nancy Rappaport presents “Supporting Youth with Depression During the Pandemic and Beyond: What Families, Schools, and Communities Can Do” at the Making a Difference Conference of the Recruitment, Training and Support Center (RTSC) for Special Education Surrogate Parents (SESPs), A Project of the Federation for Children with Special Needs, November 2021.

Dr. Rappaport shares practical guidance on how families, schools, and communities can support youth experiencing depression, emotional dysregulation and prolonged stress. While this talk references the Covid-19 pandemic, it continues to be relevant, covering topics including:
• Why ambiguous loss can deepen sadness and anxiety in youth
• The importance of connection and community in protecting mental health
• Key warning signs of depression and suicide risk
• How trauma affects behavior, learning, and relationships
• Strategies schools can use to support vulnerable students
• How joy and creativity foster resilience