Last January, I published an article written shortly after getting off the phone with a mother whose twenty-five-year-old son had tested “hot” for opioids. This mom was beginning to lose hope because he had been admitted into drug treatment centers multiple times. She was now wondering if she would become part of an exclusive club...
The teen brain focuses on risk and excitement. As parents, grandparents, or caring adults, there are times when we must Get in the Way and be the guiding force—and at times—foil these high-risk situations teens create or put themselves in. Get in the Way Tips were created to make raising kids easier and help you...
Parents are the #1 influence on their kids growing up. BUT, as they get older, peers take on that influence. Teen’s priorities switch from making their parents proud, to making their peers proud; a people-pleasing mentality that is detrimental when the influencer is not a positive one. So, What Can You Do? Get to know...
As a teen, my mission in life was to never be like my father. The worst day of my life was the day I realized I was just like him. That was the day I realized I had to do more than think I wanted to be different…I had to do something to become different…and that is how my worst...
Are you contemplating suicide? Please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline here: 1-800-273-8255 or chat here with someone who can listen and help. During the COVID-19 quarantine, mental health has been a hot topic. Tragically, many have committed suicide due to the overwhelming nature of such a pandemic, and the social isolation that has come...
What is the most commonly used tobacco product among youth? According to recent national studies: E-cigarettes. Studies also show youth are more likely than adults to use e-cigarettes in the U.S. The most popular brand of e-cigarettes among teens is JUUL. They are so popular, teens refer to vaping as JUULing. The devices are small...
Verbalize Your Expectations Often
So who has the most influence on a teen’s choice to use drugs or alcohol? The answer: parents and peers. I mention peers just momentarily, as we’ll talk about the “peer factor” in an upcoming segment. But for now, who your kids hang with or associate with should be important to you. Numerous studies on...
Physical pain has a tremendous impact on the lives of millions of Americans, many of whom have been prescribed opioids to relieve their suffering. However, we now know these pain relievers are highly addictive; so much so that we now find ourselves in an “opioid crisis.” Reducing youth access to these prescription medications is important...
Spread the Word, Not the Virus
Americans have faced many crises such as wars, disasters and 9/11 to name a few. One of the hallmarks of the American spirit is the generosity and caring for others that comes to the forefront during times of national need. Americans are resilient and we mobilize to solve problems. It’s who we are and it’s...
People today have the perception that Marijuana is not harmful, and this has led to its legalization for medical and recreational purposes in many states. Most people think that it’s no worse than alcohol and tobacco in general. But the facts are now showing the real risk of regular marijuana use; especially for youth, who...