Pre-teens today are growing up in a world saturated with messages about who they should be, how they should look, and what it means to be “enough.” Between social media, television, music, and the constant stream of online content, they are exposed to more external opinions than any generation before them. While some of these messages can be inspiring, many create pressure, comparison, and confusion, especially for young people who are still figuring out who they are. In the

Now more than ever, young people need support from the adults in their lives to help them navigate the changing landscape for LGBTQIA+ communities. LGBTQIA+ youth experience higher rates of mental health concerns and suicidal thoughts and attempts. However, when they have support from teachers, caregivers, and parents, the rates of suicide can dramatically decrease. Adult support is a strong protective factor for young people and can be a valuable tool for improving mental he

For many teens and young adults, academic pressure has become so normal that it often goes unquestioned. The stress of deadlines, exams, applications, grades, extracurricular activities, and planning for the future can feel like an expected part of growing up. When everyone around you is carrying similar pressures, it’s easy to assume that constantly feeling overwhelmed is simply what success requires. But there is a difference between being challenged and being chronically o

Why Transitions Can Feel So Stressful While the back-to-school season can be exciting, there are many stressors that come with establishing a new routine. Changes in your schedule can feel destabilizing as you adjust to increased responsibilities and new daily demands. Getting yourself or your child up on time, making breakfast, getting dressed, and somehow making it out the door on time can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone if you feel more stressed, anxious, irritable, ti