The COVID-19 pandemic has been stressful and has caused anxiety for many people. These emotions can be particularly strong in young people as they adjust to new schedules, separate from their friends, and find a new normal all while viewing the threat of illness and death from the pandemic. On top of that, they are around their family members all day, every day, with limited access to activities and social events. In this session, Dr. Kim Allen, Director of the Youth, Family, and Community Sciences academic program at North Carolina State University along with her two daughters, 16 year old Sofia and 19 year old Fiona, will present coping strategies for dealing with stress and anxiety in youth.

In light of elevated conversations around race and racism, this session shares an avenue for adults to provide space for youth to voice their thoughts, concerns and ideas in a brave manner that seeks to bridge, and not divide.