Health

The Truth About Youth… Alcohol Use

On a typical Friday during the school year, social media lights up about the upcoming weekend events and parties. Word spreads quickly and plans are excitedly made. On Monday, stories are told of where students went over the weekend and what they did. Often, the...

The Power to Write Your Future

Contributed by Jennifer Bateman, Ph.D., National Vice President, Youth Development Programs at Boys & Girls Clubs of America Carl Bard says, “Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.”...

Understanding the Effects of Trauma

Contributed by Anna Blount Imagine you’re hiking in the woods. Suddenly, a huge shape lumbers across the trail – a black bear has crossed your path! Your breathing becomes short, your heartbeat skyrockets, and every muscle tenses as cortisol rushes through your...

Marijuana and Teens

Contributed by DaShe’ Frieson-McMillian, MPH, CTTS After many years of public health education concerning the dangers of cigarette use, teenagers’ cigarette smoking is declining, but their marijuana usage has not changed much. Marijuana is one of the most common...

The Power of Family Mealtimes

Contributed by Wendy Palmer, MS, RD, LD, CHES It seems like such a simple part of life, but it’s one that many families are not prioritizing: family mealtimes. Many of us are overbooked, overscheduled and find it hard to fit in a time where the whole family can sit...