Dating offers an exciting opportunity for teens to explore relationships and enjoy memorable experiences. However, for some, dating can be a frightening experience that encompasses fear and violence. Teen dating violence is a hidden epidemic and it’s happening right here in our community. It’s more than just arguments or jealousy. It’s become harmful behaviors that hurt individuals both physically and mentally. Let’s shed some light on what teen dating violence is, how widespread it is in San Antonio, and how… Continue Reading
Why Is My Teen Vaping? The Link Between Vaping & Mental Health
If you’re a parent and you’ve discovered your teen is vaping, you might feel worried, confused, and maybe a bit frustrated. Vaping has become a popular trend among teenagers. And it’s often hard to understand why. This habit might seem harmless to many teens, but it can have serious consequences. Let’s explore what draws teens to vaping, the risks it poses, and what parents can do to help. Understanding this complex issue is the first step in helping your teen… Continue Reading
Understanding Adolescent & Teen Self-Harm and the Pathways to Healing
Seeing a loved one, especially a child, struggle with self-harm can be scary and confusing. As parents or caregivers, it’s natural to feel a rush of emotions and a desperate desire to help. Self-harm is a complex issue. It’s crucial to approach the topic with sensitivity and empathy. Understanding the reasons behind self-harm and recognizing its signs are the initial steps for helping your loved one. We’re here to guide you through understanding self-harm. Gain insight into its causes, signs,… Continue Reading
Why Adolescent Mental Health Issues Can Escalate During Summer & How to Help
Sunshine, long days, and school-free schedules. Summer holds the promise of fun and freedom for many adolescents. But the reality isn’t always so bright. For some, adolescent mental health issues can get worse during summer. Let’s go over why that is and how you can get your child help with these concerns. Understanding Adolescence and Mental Health Adolescence is that unique time between childhood and adulthood. It’s a pivotal phase of development, filled with significant changes and challenges. It is… Continue Reading
Common Anxiety Disorders and Their Symptoms
It is common to feel anxious now and then, whether it’s before a big test or job interview, or whether you are on an important date. However, anxiety disorders are another matter. Those who suffer from these mental illnesses experience severe distress that interferes with their daily lives and can keep them from performing everyday tasks. Anxiety disorders are among one of the most common mental health issues. Signs and Symptoms Here are some of the more common anxiety disorders:… Continue Reading
The Effects of Domestic Violence on Children and Families
Domestic violence is defined as any type of violence or abuse that occurs in a familial relationship. Generally, it occurs when someone in a position of power tries to control another person such as a partner, spouse, or child. It can also occur in a relationship where people are dating or living together. Domestic Violence is not Solely Physical When people hear the word “violence,” they immediately think of physical violence such as hitting and punching. However, domestic violence is… Continue Reading
The Signs and Symptoms of Poor Teen Mental Health
It’s not easy to identify mental illness in another person. Even in adults, it’s difficult to know where to draw the line between strange behavior and mental illness. This is even more true in teenagers. Many parents find themselves wondering “do I have an out-of-control teenager or is this a mental health condition?” First of all, you aren’t alone. The fact that you’re here reading this now shows that you are ready to do whatever it takes to get your… Continue Reading
Alternatives to Self-Harm: Coping Strategies for Adolescents
Dealing with negative emotions and traumatic situations isn’t easy – especially for teenagers. Teens are halfway between adults and children. They’re still learning to live in their own skin while managing to cope with new situations and experiences. Why are teens and self-harm so connected? Accessibility probably has a lot to do with it. Adults don’t always cope with negative emotions in healthy ways either – sometimes they turn to alcohol and drugs, lash out, or resort to self-destructive behaviors…. Continue Reading
Is Social Media Affecting Your Teen’s Mental Health?
The relationship between teens and social media is constantly changing. Since its introduction, social media has transformed the way future generations communicate, socialize, and maintain lifelong friendships. Though there are many benefits to being “plugged in,” there are also risks for teens. Social media can offer a world of cyberbullying, poor time management, decreased self-esteem, and feeling left out. Over the last decade, anxiety and depression have become common mood disorders among teenagers. A 2017 report concluded that the number… Continue Reading
How to Talk to a Child about Tragic Events
On Sunday 5 November, a lone gunman opened fire on worshippers at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. It was the deadliest mass shooting in Texas history. The perpetrator was eventually stopped but not before he had gunned down least 26 people, including children. Five days earlier, on 31 October, innocent people in New York were the target of an attack when a local man drove a rental truck down a crowded bicycle path close to the World… Continue Reading
