Supporting Student Resilience in Challenging Times

At a recent Parents' Association meeting, families gathered for a thoughtful presentation by Dr. Jeremy D. Greene, school psychologist and faculty member at the University of the Pacific, on burnout, resilience, and promoting healthy growth in our children and teens.

Dr. Greene shared research showing that burnout, which was once considered an adult issue, is increasingly affecting students at younger ages, driven by academic pressure, social expectations, and a constant sense of needing to “keep up.” He emphasized that resilience is not something children are simply born with, but a set of skills that can be intentionally taught, modeled, and reinforced by the adults in their lives.

Key takeaways included the importance of:

• Strong, supportive relationships with caring adults
• Predictable routines balanced with opportunities for rest and creativity
• Teaching emotional awareness, self-regulation, and healthy coping strategies
• Encouraging a growth mindset that views challenges as opportunities to learn

Most importantly, Dr. Greene reminded families that connection, belonging, and feeling genuinely seen are powerful protective factors against burnout—and that schools and families play a shared role in nurturing these conditions so students can thrive, not just achieve. His full presentation is available here.