Recent Panel Discussion Sheds Light on Anxiety Among Children

Parents gathered in the Lori Schiavone Commons Tuesday for an eagerly anticipated presentation and panel discussion titled “The Anxious Generation: Supporting Young People in Our Digital Age.” Led by Dr. Elise Fallucco, a child and adolescent psychiatrist and ESJ Director of Health, Safety, and Well-Being Programming; Amy Burrows Perkins ’92, LMHC and ESJ Director of Student Services; and The Rev. Adam Greene, Head of School, the panel provided valuable insights into the growing issue of anxiety among young people.

Dr. Fallucco opened the discussion by highlighting that anxiety disorders are the most common health problem affecting children and teens today. She explained that the prevalence of these disorders has risen sharply over the past decade, a trend correlating with the increased use of social media and the smartphone. Dr. Fallucco also shared signs for parents to look for if they suspect their child may be struggling with anxiety and offered practical tools to help support children through these challenges.

The Rev. Greene emphasized the importance of a strong partnership between parents and the school, stressing that both parties must work together with mutual trust and understanding to support the well-being of students. Amy Perkins talked about parents letting children work out natural consequences of their actions in a safe way, then trying something new if that way does not work. 

“The conversation allowed parents to engage with experts and gain valuable strategies for supporting their children,” said Beville Anderson, Head of Lower School, St. Mark’s Campus. “We are grateful for the opportunity to come together and discuss this important topic as a school community.”