Masonic Youth Foundation Calendar

The majority of our youth are emotionally healthy, yet one in every four to five youth overall meet the criteria for a mental health disorder that places them at risk for severe impairment and/or distress. Substance abuse, anxiety, depression and attention deficit hyperactivity are the most commonly diagnosed disorders. There are many reasons for concern

The landscape of youth mental health is rapidly evolving in response to social, technological and environmental changes. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the numbers of children and adolescents experiencing major depressive episodes and anxiety, mood, attention and behavior disorders. One in five of our youth experience mental illness, while nearly

Recent studies indicate that the development of empathy can reduce bullying and harassment and create connections among peers. While it is ideal to teach empathy at an early age, there is a lot that can be done to develop empathy in teens. This workshop will: Look at the development of cognitive and affective empathy during

Adults spend an average of three to four hours per day on their screens, while youth spend an average of seven. Children are getting smartphones earlier than ever – 53% of kids have their one by age 11, and by age 12, 71% do. While devices themselves are not addictive, the social connections they give

In today’s connected world, the digital environment is a central part of youth identity, relationships and daily life. Social media, gaming and online communities can foster creativity and connection – but they can also lead to stress, anxiety, isolation and self-comparison. Their digital environment can have a profound influence on the developing mind and mental

In a time where youth are more digitally connected than ever before, rates of loneliness, social isolation and challenges with building meaningful relationships continue to rise. The digital connections that youth make via social media and online platforms are meaningful and important, but they also contribute to social isolation and loneliness. Youth can be left feeling sad, misunderstood, suffering from FOMO and

Sexual harassment and violence perpetrated by youth is a significant and widespread public health issue. It occurs frequent in schools, online, and in our communities with serious, sometimes lifelong, physical, mental and behavioral health consequences for victims. Peer-on-peer sexual harassment and abuse is so common in some settings that youth may regard them as normal.

The CDC cited bullying as a widespread public health issue, referring to research that indicates bullying is common and, in many instances, shares a relationship with trauma, albeit a complex one. Being bullied can significantly impact the physical, emotional, social, academic and behavioral well-being of children and teens. Those who have been exposed to trauma and violence may be more likely to

In an age of instant gratification and constant change, helping youth build perseverance and a belief in their ability to grow is more important than ever. A growth mindset can empower youth to overcome challenges, while the risk factors of trauma and adverse childhood experiences can be mitigated by the protective factors that build resilience

The landscape of youth mental health is rapidly evolving in response to social, technological and environmental changes. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the numbers of children and adolescents experiencing major depressive episodes and anxiety, mood, attention and behavior disorders. One in five of our youth experience mental illness, while nearly

Our youth are facing complex serious social challenges encompassing a range of issues from anxiety and depression to loneliness. Their involvement with technology and social media often amplifies those challenges. In a recent Pew Research Center survey, 7 out of 10 teens say anxiety and depression are major problems they and their peers are facing.

In today’s connected world, the digital environment is a central part of youth identity, relationships and daily life. Social media, gaming and online communities can foster creativity and connection — but they can also lead to stress, anxiety, isolation and self-comparison. The digital environment can have a profound influence on the developing mind and mental