Above: SYFS and other Town departments are offering ways to help the community “Come Together for Mental Health Awareness Month”.
Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) is in full swing. Southborough Youth & Family Services asked me to highlight for readers two MHAM events next week. They are talks that SYFS believes are of value to the community.
One is helpful for any adults. But both are promoted as especially helpful (and timely) for parents.
On Facebook, SYFS posted:
As summer break approaches, it’s more important than ever to help our kids stay engaged, supported, and connected. Both events are designed to strengthen family bonds and nurture healthier relationships.
One in-person workshop a week from tonight focuses on how to build “healthier connections” with others. The next night’s webinar is geared for helping children safely navigated the digital world.
The Value of Validation
Tuesday, May 20th (6:30 – 7:30 pm)
Southborough Library Eaton Room
In a Facebook post, SYFS described this event to be led by its Director Sarah Cassell:
Discover how simple words of support can make a world of difference for kids and loved ones alike. Learn practical skills for building connection and healthier relationships.
The flyer further details:
Validation is a powerful tool for diffusing tension, expressing support, and improving communication in all types of relationships. Learn how to use this essential skill to foster understanding and create more meaningful interactions with those around you.
And an email from SYFS notes that “validation” is also a tool for “creating supportive relationships in families, schools, and beyond.”
To register, click here.
Digital Wellness Lab: Supporting Your Child’s Positive Media Use This Summer and Beyond
Wednesday, May 21st (6:30– 8:00 pm)
zoom
This virtual webinar focuses on teaching parents “new strategies to navigate and support” adolescents’ media and technology use. It offers :
a thoughtful conversation for parents on navigating technology with their children. This event explores how to integrate digital tools into daily life in a balanced and healthy way. Learn strategies for setting screen-time boundaries, encouraging screen-free moments, and fostering open family dialogue about tech use-all while promoting connection and well-being at home.
The event is co-sponsored by SYFS and Northborough Health & Human Services. It will feature speaker Kaitlin Tiches, a Medical Librarian & Knowledge Manager at Boston Children’s Hospital’s Digital Wellness Lab.
Click here to register.
Below is the list of other still upcoming (or in progress) events planned in May to encourage the community to focus on mental wellness. (Or you can open an interactive flyer of the full month’s activities here):
Teen Room Activities
All month long at the Southborough Library
Throughout the month, the library’s Teen Room will have activities to boost connection and well being, including sharing a recommended reading list and MHAM Bingo.
Mini Art Kits
Pick up from the Southborough Library through Wednesday, May 14th
While supplies last, the Southborough Library will be providing kits including mini painting canvases and easels for the community to use to express themselves and “take a mindful break”. The opportunity is for all ages. The results can be brought back to be displayed in the library. (Scroll down for details on the May 17th Mini Art Show.)
Shelf Help
Tuesday, May 13th (4:30 – 5:30 pm)
Southborough Library Main Floor
The second meeting of the 3-part community book group discussing the book Together by Dr. Vivek Murthy. (Read more in dedicated post.)
Family Yoga in the Park
Sunday, May 18th (12:00 pm)
Neary Stage/Field (Near Tennis Courts), 53 Parkerville Road (or indoors at 21 Highland St if weather dictates)
Southborough Recreation is putting on this free, family yoga session for all ages and skill levels. “Bring your yoga mats and loved ones for a fun and peaceful experience. For details, see dedicated post.
Mini Art Show
Saturday, May 17th (11:00 am – 12:00 pm)
Opening exhibition of the mini art pieces attendees made from the “grab and go” kits made available at the start of the month. (Sponsored by The Friends of the Southborough Library) For details, see dedicated post.
Encompass Engagement
Week Of May 19th (All Week )
In-Person and Online
The coalition that partners town and school staff from Northborough and Southborough for preventing and reducing substance misuse in the community will conduct “Outreach to Algonquin Students” throughout the week. (This was originally scheduled for the week of the 12th.)
Mom’s Collage Night Out
Thursday May 22nd (7:00 – 9:30 pm)
Collage Art Studio, 205 Turnpike Road
(Note: Unlike the other events, this one isn’t free. Registration for this event through Southborough Recreation costs $50.) An evening focused on self-care through art expression. Southborough moms will explore their creative side through a fun and interactive collage activity. Click here for details and to register.
Celebrate Wellness
Wednesday May 28th (6:30 – 7:30 pm)
Community House
Wrap up the month with a reception to Celebrate Wellness — a community gathering focused on connection, reflection, and emotional well-being.
They will also honor Finn School teacher Julianne Topliffe, this year’s recipient of the annual Laurie Sugarman-Whittier Wellness Award.
