Open the Conversation: Talking About Mental Health with Your Students
As educators and adults in students’ lives, we can’t afford to shy away from talking about mental health. In fact, we need to lean in. Why It’s So Important to Talk About Mental Health Nearly 1 in 3 high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness in 2021 (CDC, 2023). That’s a 10% […]
Effects of Cannabis on the Adolescent Brain
There has been considerable debate in recent years over the risks of cannabis use, particularly among young people. While many advocates have argued that cannabis has few adverse effects and can even be beneficial in certain cases, scientific research has shown that this drug can cause a wide range of negative outcomes, including cognitive impairment […]
The Impact of Legalized Marijuana on College Campuses
The jury is still out on whether prohibiting or decriminalizing marijuana has increased the use of the drug among young people. Although studies have shown that recreational use has increased in states where it’s been legalized by 20 percent, marijuana use is still highly debated. As more and more states legalize marijuana for both medicinal […]
Trauma-Informed Schools: Helping Traumatized Students Succeed
Trauma comes in many forms, from living in extreme poverty or neglect, to experiencing difficult events like bullying, school shootings, community violence, or physical or sexual violence, to divorce or death of a loved one. In recent years, societal shifts have highlighted additional sources of trauma, such as cyberbullying and online harassment, climate-related disasters, and […]
Protecting Our Teens: The Consequences of Sexting and How to Prevent It
The average American teenager spends at least seven hours a day in front of a screen. Much of this time is spent harmlessly, communicating with friends, playing video games, streaming video, etc. However, unfortunately, there is also a lot of sexting and other risky behavior that happens when teens communicate with each other digitally. Some […]
Early Signs of an Unhealthy Relationship
New relationships often bring excitement and a sense of possibility. At first, everything may feel perfect, and it’s hard to imagine anything going wrong. However, as time goes on, it’s natural to notice your partner’s flaws—some minor and harmless, like preferring chocolate ice cream over your favorite vanilla, and others that may signal potential issues […]
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). The reality is that only 33% of teens who are in abusive relationships ever tell anyone. Teens often don’t know how to initiate a conversation about it or are unaware they are in an abusive situation. As a parent or someone who works with teens, you can change […]
Taking Care of Yourself During the Holidays: A Survival Guide for Educators and School Faculty
It’s understandable that teachers and school leaders feel overwhelmed. After a demanding fall semester, it’s essential to take time for yourself. The holidays give educators a chance to take a breath and recharge, especially when self-care has been on the back burner
What are the Different Types of Shoplifters?
Shoplifters have different motivations for shoplifting. What are the motives for each type, and why would a person continue to shoplift in spite of negative consequences?
Course Highlight: Under the Influence
Under the Influence is a personalized, interaction alcohol intervention course that works for adults and juveniles in courts, high schools, and colleges.