Circus of the Heart Distinguished Service Award nominations are now open! 
Together Yet Alone: How the Most Connected Generation is the Loneliest
$15.00
Description
(July 2026)Â
Today’s youth are more digitally connected than any generation in history, yet rates of loneliness, isolation, and disconnection continue to rise. This engaging training explores the growing youth loneliness epidemic, its impact on mental health, substance use, empathy, and behavioral outcomes, and why online connection often fails to meet deeper social needs. Participants will examine the powerful relationship between connection and resilience while learning practical strategies to help young people build meaningful relationships and a stronger sense of belonging.
Thad Shunkwiler is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health Science at Minnesota State University, Mankato. In addition to his academic work as a counselor educator, he is a licensed behavioral health provider with over a decade of experience in providing treatment and clinical supervision.
His professional accolades include being named a Presidential Teaching Scholar, a Fellow of the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, and a Fellow of the National Rural Health Association. In addition to his awards, he holds a Governor’s appointment to the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy where he currently serves as Board Vice-Chair. Additionally he has the privilege to serve on the board of directors for the Minnesota Association for Children’s Mental Health and the Minnesota Rural Health Association.
As a published author, TEDx speaker, along with being a national and international conference keynote presenter, Professor Shunkwiler is a recognized expert in behavioral healthcare.
watch time:Â 88 minutes
Eligible Certificate of Completion time:Â 90 minutes
expires July 31, 2027