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In 2021, it was estimated that over 46 million Americans aged 12 and older had at least one substance use disorder. Marijuana remains the leading cause of adolescents entering substance use/abuse treatment, accounting for 63 percent of admissions for those aged 12 to 14 and …

It can be difficult to obtain mental health help for teenagers. They may deny anything is wrong, believe therapy is embarrassing or feel so hopeless that they doubt anything will work. One option is to liken therapy to having a coach, who will teach new …

Family dinners reduce anxiety and depression in youth. Meals are a respite and not an opportunity to rehash everyone’s day. The table should be free of judgment, nagging and technology, with parents modeling their enjoyment of food. Atmosphere and a connection between family members matter …

A person’s mental health affects how he/she perceives his/her surroundings and can impact his/her ability to both identify and respond to potentially threatening situations. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, individuals with severe mental illnesses are over 10 times more likely …

Self-care involves a change in mindset rather than specific activities. By choosing yourself and prioritizing your needs, you can improve both your mental and physical health. To guide yourself in practicing self-care, think about what you loved about your day and what irritated you or …

The more you share with your therapist, the better he/she can understand you and help you reach your goals. Omitting facts or distorting the truth can make your treatment less effective. While being honest may not become easier, the process will grow more familiar. Arriving …

Qualities associated with creativity, including awareness, curiosity, engagement, focus, presence and self-expression, all contribute to overall life satisfaction. Being creative involves an openess to change and willingness to risk failure. It can reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety, increase positive emotions and lessen anger …

While the words used to discuss mental health are changing, it is important not to let a fear of saying the wrong thing stop you from asking someone how he/she is or prevent you from having conversations on the topic, which can contribute to silence …

Cognitive reappraisal allows individuals to reframe negative or stressful events in order to change their emotional responses. Research supports a link in youth between depression and maladaptive cognitive processes, including a diminished sense of competence, a low perception of control and negative attributional styles (i.e., …

The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a major one even without the presence of mental and behavioral health issues. For youth with those conditions, a knowledge of health insurance, applicable Federal and state laws, school policies, self-advocacy and support systems is necessary. There can …