As stress and burnout continue to impact both teens and adults, OptWell is inviting the community to pause, reset, and reconnect at a free educational event focused on practical tools for mental well-being.
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, OptWell will host Find Your Calm: Tools to Reduce Stress, Beat Burnout, & Boost Mental Well-Being at Lyons Township High School South. Open to high school students and adults from across the western suburbs, the evening will feature a series of short, engaging presentations from mental health and wellness professionals, along with a community resource fair.
The event runs from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., with the resource fair opening 30 minutes before and after the presentations. Admission is free, and advance registration is encouraged.
OptWell Founder and President Kris Lonsway, PhD, shared that the event is designed to meet people where they are. “At OptWell, we believe mental wellness is a core part of overall health. We’re grateful to bring together expert speakers and trusted community resources to help individuals and families strengthen their well-being,” Lonsway said.
Featured Presentations
Attendees will hear from a diverse group of speakers offering both personal insight and evidence-based strategies:
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Learning to Share Selfishly – Jim Maley, host of The Maley Way Podcast and Lyons Township alumnus, will discuss his personal journey with depression and the importance of sustainable self-care and asking for help without stigma.
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Mental Health 101: Awareness, Warning Signs, & Resources – Alma Jiménez Tapia, LCSW, of Pillars Community Health, will cover foundational mental health concepts, warning signs, and how to access support.
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Slow Down, Cozy More – Michelle Anderson, co-host of Cozy Conversations with The Sister Project podcast, will share practical ways to rebuild calm and presence after burnout.
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Mindful Moments: A Pause to Reset – Michelle Halm, LPC, founder of Grief Connection Space, will guide attendees through simple practices to calm the nervous system and improve emotional regulation.
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Unstuck: Practical Tools to Reverse Tech-Driven Burnout – Stef Schodrof, founder of Senseory, will explore the effects of constant digital stimulation and share quick reset techniques.
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What Next? Simple Habits to Strengthen Well-Being – Kris Lonsway will close the evening with actionable next steps focused on daily habits around movement, sleep, nutrition, connection, and stress management.
Community Resource Fair
The accompanying resource fair will feature local and regional organizations offering mental health, wellness, fitness, and educational support, including providers such as NAMI Metro Suburban, Rosecrance Behavioral Health, Ellie Mental Health, and UChicago Medicine AdventHealth La Grange, among many others.
The event is made possible through the support of community sponsors and partners, including Lyons Township High School and the Lyons Township Mental Health Commission.
Event Details at a Glance
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Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
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Time: 6:30–8:00 p.m. (Resource fair before and after)
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Location: Lyons Township High School South – New South Commons Area, 4900 Willow Springs Rd., Western Springs
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Cost: Free
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Registration: https://OptWellFindYourCalm.eventbrite.com
More information about OptWell and its mission is available at optwell.org.