Parents can sign up for discussion about kids' mental health

State Rep. Chris Bos (R-Lake Zurich) is partnering with Jessica Hutchison, a licensed clinical professional counselor and founder of My Red Said, for a virtual conversation about the rising youth mental health crisis and strategies to help parents support their children.

The event, "Starting the Conversation," will take place via webinar 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 20.

"Anxiety, depression and other social-emotional strains for children and adolescents have been on the rise," Bos said. "As a parent of three, two of which are teenagers, I've seen it among my kids and their friends, like many other parents. This event brings in expert perspective to provide strategies that will empower us, as parents, to help our kids after the inconsistency they've experienced over the past two years."

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the preexisting youth mental health crisis, as children have faced school disruptions, uncertainty and inconsistency, prompting emotional trauma that may not be visible.

For Starting the Conversation, Jessica Hutchison, founder of My Red Said and a professional counselor focusing on trauma and grief, will join Bos for this special event.

Listen along as Hutchison offers insights on how to identify narratives and utilize "talk to me" techniques to have meaningful conversations with our youth.

There will also be a question-and-answer session after the presentation.

Register at RepBos.com. For more information, visit RepBos.com or call (224) 662-1176.