State of Mental Health in Lower Connecticut

Greenwich, CT - September 25, 2025

INTRODUCTION  

As communities face a surge in youth anxiety, depression, and disconnection, this discussion convened at a critical moment.

With recent studies showing that over a third of young adults experience anxiety and nearly 40% of high school students report persistent sadness, the need for innovative, collective solutions has never been greater.

This gathering, led by Greenwich United Way, brought together local organizations, parents, and advocates to unveil Greenwich Connects, a program developed in partnership with Liberation Programs and YMCA to address these urgent challenges and launch new pathways for support.

IMPACT

The event spotlighted the unique pressures facing today’s youth, including the transition from high school to college, a period marked by loneliness, loss of structure, and financial stress. One parent’s story of struggling to find the right therapist for her son resonated with many, highlighting the maze of waitlists and the importance of “warm handoffs” between providers. Panelists shared that 36% of young adults in a recent Harvard study reported anxiety, and 29% reported depression, with a lack of meaning and purpose as a driving factor.

A recurring theme was the power of connection: both within families and the broader community. The event also addressed co-occurring mental health and substance use concerns, noting that about 20% of local youth seek care for behavioral health issues. The need for non-clinical supports, such as lifestyle coaching and community-building activities, was emphasized as a way to complement traditional therapy and reduce stigma.

A highlight was the introduction of Greenwich Connects, a collaborative initiative between Greenwich United Way, YMCA, and Liberation Programs. Designed as a “starting line” for youth ages 18-25 who may be disconnected from school or work, Greenwich Connects offers a non-clinical, walk-in lounge and an online forum, the “unspoken community," where young people and parents can seek support, share experiences, and access resources without judgment. This approach is distinct in its focus on holistic, peer-driven support and proactive outreach, aiming to reach youth who may not engage with traditional services.

INITIATIVES

The event concluded with a call to action:

• The launch of Greenwich Connects and the “unspoken community” online forum is set for November 6, 2025 with a community event and sign-ups for youth, parents, and volunteers.

• Local organizations will staff the lounge and moderate the online platform, ensuring a safe, inclusive space for connection and resource-sharing.

• Schools, parents, and community partners are encouraged to refer youth and families, especially those navigating transitions or at risk of disconnection.

• Ongoing collaboration will focus on workforce readiness, with support for educational attainment, job skills, and mental health resilience.

• Parents are invited to join new psychoeducation and support groups, fostering skills for managing stress and building stronger family relationships.

Participants left energized to build a more connected, supportive mental health ecosystem, one that meets young people where they are and helps every family thrive.

For more details on the speakers and agenda, visit the event page.

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