Teen Help

High Functioning Autism and Aspergers Syndrome

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 20:56:00 +0000

There are many questions about the difference between high functioning autism and Aspergers syndrome. We will give a brief overview of both in this post; for more information read the full articles on our site about Asperger Syndrome and Teen Autism. High functioning autism in part of the larger spectrum of disorders referred to simply as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) or Pervasive Development Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) disorders. There are a number of signs and symptoms of autism and varying degrees can be associated with the disorder, depending on the level of functionality the person experiences.

High functioning autism and Aspergers syndrome have many of the same underlying characteristics that exist in most forms of autism like: atypical social functions, maintaining eye contact, and a hard time understanding abstract concepts or an abstract meaning of a word or phrase. Both high functioning autism and Aspergers differ from more limiting forms of autism in which an individual may have problems learning, have problems with motor development, or other challenges with basic functions. One of the biggest differences between high functioning autism and Aspergers syndrome has to do with speech development as a toddler. Those individuals that develop(ed) speech normally as a child are thought to have Asperger syndrome while those that did not develop speech typically but otherwise developed normally - in regards to motor skills, cognitive learning, etc. - are classified as having high functioning autism.

High functioning autism is still not an official diagnosis, as far as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric Association, but Asperger syndrome is. However, it is currently being debated as to whether or not to remove Asperger syndrome as a separate diagnosis in the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders set to be published in May 2013. Some argue that there is not enough distinction in the symptoms and characteristics to warrant it as a separate diagnosis. Let's take a look at some similarities and differences between the two. Individuals with high functioning autism or Aspergers syndrome are typically of average or above-average intelligence. Those with Aspergers may be more likely to have a desire for social interaction and friends. But, both those with Aspergers and those with high functioning autism will likely have a very hard time developing social relationships because they do not recognize body language and other social cues that are a large part of being able to maintain this type of a relationship.

It seems as though there are still more questions than answers about the difference in high functioning autism and Aspergers syndrome, but the two main differences seem to be in the development of speech and in the individuals desire for friendship and social interaction. Whether or not this is really enough to consider them as separate disorders is still yet to be determined. If your child or a loved one has been diagnosed as having either high functioning autism or Aspergers syndrome, keep in mind that each person is different in how they are affected, the symptoms they will experience, and the type of help/assistance they will require. Most still attend a regular public school and do just fine. Also realize that you are not alone and that there are many families out there coping with the same fears and concerns as you are. The internet is a great source for finding stories of encouragement and help - from blogs to forums and more - you can choose whether to be involved in the ongoing discussions or to stay in the shadows and learn from others. You may even be able to find local groups in your area where you can meet with others to share stories, ideas, or even socialization for your children or teens with autism or Aspergers.

Sources
webmd.com
mayoclinic.com
wikipedia.org

Autism in Teenagers and Autism Statistics 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:05:00 +0000

You may have noticed a recent influx in the number of commercials about autism and autism statistics. Probably something about the odds of someone winning the Superbowl or winning the lottery and then ending with the odds of that same person having a child with autism. Autism statistics in 2012 show that as many as 1 in 110 in the United States is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), according to the CDC. These numbers are way up from just a few years ago when it was thought that about 1 in 500 had some form of autism. The question used to be: What is Autism? With all the media attention people are beginning to understand more about what autism is, but because it is a spectrum disorder and autism symptoms and the affect of the disorder vary greatly from one individual to another, understanding autism in teenagers, for example, can be difficult.

A common behavior one will often see in teen autism has to do with social ability and behavior. For many teens with autism, if it was diagnosed early on, they have had years of learn to recognize social cues and learn appropriate ways to display their own emotion, but this is not something that comes natural to them. Some mistakenly think that autistic teens don't feel emotion or understand emotion. This is not true, they simply display and understand emotion in a different way than someone that does not have autism. Because a teenager with autism behaves differently than other teens, bullying often becomes a problem for these teens. Sometimes this bullying becomes so severe that parents are forced to homeschool their autistic teen.

It is sometimes believe that autism is a type of mental retardation and that teens with autism all have learning disabilities, this is also not true. While autism in teenagers can include learning disabilities, most teens with autism are actually very intelligent. Because those with autism often have trouble communicating in the same way as others, people mistakenly think they are not intelligent. Don't underestimate the intelligence of a teen with autism, help find ways that will help the teen grow and progress in his/her studies by accommodating autism in teenagers with a proper learning environment. Autism statistics show that about 40% of those with ASD do not talk at all and between 30-50% has an intellectual disability.

When considering autism in teenagers, keep in mind that autism is very different in every individual. What helps with one autistic teen may be detrimental when working with another teen with autism. Usually the family can help the most in understanding how autism affects each individual. Whatever you do, be sensitive, and considerate. Do not allow bullying or other inappropriate behavior or treatment toward teens with autism. Whether you are a parent, teacher, or friend trying to understand autism in teenagers, some research can really help a lot in understanding some of the basics. There are also many blog resources, forums, and other websites that will allow you to connect with other parents and teachers who are closely associated with teens that have autism. Connecting with others can help give you support and a sense of community so that you don't feel like this is a battle that you are fighting all alone. Getting ideas from others can also help you find ways to deal with particular behaviors of situations that arise as a result of autism in teenagers.

Sources: cdc.gov

Peer Pressure Statistics and Peer Pressure Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 20:48:00 +0000

In this Peer Pressure Statistics and Peer Pressure Facts article we will take a look at how peer pressure statistics have changed over the past few years and what these peer pressure facts show about the behavior of teens. Peer pressure is generally thought of as the pressure that an individual feels to act in a certain way or make choices in an effort to "fit in" with a group of people, generally around the same age. This can range from music one listens to or brand of clothing one purchases, to underage drinking and use of illegal drugs.

Recent peer pressure statistics indicate that more and more teens are being pressured into using dangerous drugs on a daily basis. According to peer pressure statistics on the Adolescent Substance Abuse Knowledge Base website, in a 2006 study it was estimated that every day 2,500 teens chose to abuse some type of pain reliever for the first time. About 1/3 of those respondents reported that they felt pressured into at least trying them. These peer pressure facts are startling. 2, 500 teens daily for a year equals more than 900,000 teens every year that are trying a prescription drug for the first time.

Peer pressure can extend beyond friends to include family, school, and neighborhood associations. This is sometimes referred to as the influence of the "Social System". The influence from each of these social systems seems to have a significant impact on the choices of teens. For instance a teen that has peers that get involved in underage drinking, that also has diligent parents that pay close attention to the teen and the behaviors of the teen and the teen's peers, is less likely to choose to participate in the underage drinking. A teen that has peers that participate in underage drinking and parents that also abuse drugs or alcohol are much more likely to choose to join in the underage drinking with his/her peers.

Talking to your teens about peer pressure and your family values and choices regarding illegal drug and alcohol abuse can make a bigger difference than one may think. Too many times parents think their kids know what they expect and how they feel about it and don't take the time to actually sit down and have a conversation with the teen. Extended family, family friends, or close neighbors can also take the initiative to talk to teens about the problems and risks associated with drug abuse and alcohol abuse if the teen is being raised in a home where the parents are known to abuse drugs and alcohol. Sometimes just having someone show an interest in the teen, and offer help and other options to the teen, can make a world of difference in the path the teen will choose to follow in his/her own life.

Many times teens feel the peer pressure and know it is wrong but because no one is telling them what the other options are, they figure it is their only option or at the least that no one cares if they make the choice to abuse drugs and alcohol. Other peer pressure statistics report that approximately 50% of teens feel pressured in regards to sexual relationships. Most of the peer pressure facts and statistics that are reported are in relation to negative behaviors that are influenced by peer pressure, however; sometime peer pressure can be used in a good way. Some teens see their friends and classmates excelling on a project or in a sport and they will work harder to try to do as good or better than his/her peers.

Every teen handles peer pressure differently and it is important for teens to learn to deal with peer pressure on his own. Sometimes simply talking through some possible scenarios and allowing the teen to think about how he could respond or what he believes is the correct choice, will give him the courage to make the best choice when he is actually in the situation. Too many times a teen is put on the spot and doesn't know how to get out of the situation. If he has had time to think through some possible options for getting out of an uncomfortable situation before hand, avoiding the peer pressure to do something he really doesn't want to do will be much easier.

Regardless of the peer pressure statistics and peer press facts that show an increase in negative behaviors, the overall percentage of teens that are abusing drugs and alcohol is still relatively small. With a little information and preparation teens will be able to use their influence in a positive way and help others avoid the pitfalls that result from giving in to negative peer pressure.

Sources:
adolescent-substance-abuse.com

Risks of Alternative Sex for Teens

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 15:30:00 +0000

There are risks of alternative sex for teens, unfortunately these risks might be pushed to the wayside of a teens’ mind. Many teens might know and understand the risks of having sexual intercourse like sexually transmitted diseases and unintended teen pregnancy and instead will engage in alternative types of sex thinking they are safe. However, because there are so many other risks of alternative sex for teens, it is important for teens to realize there really is no entirely safe form of sex.

Many teens will engage in types of alternative sex simply because they want to experiment or find a way to express their sexuality with a chosen partner (or partners). While teens might understand that sexual intercourse can result in an unexpected teen pregnancy, or it might even spread types of STDs and infections. Teens might not understand the risks of these alternative types of sex and instead may think they are just doing what they can get away with, while maintaining their status as a virgin. While alternative sexual activities will not likely result in an unexpected pregnancy (unless semen somehow comes close to the vaginal opening), other types of STDs and infections are still a very real possibility. In fact, risks of alternative sex for teens include more than 25 various types of sexually transmitted diseases like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes and syphilis. Unfortunately even STDs like HIV or Aids can also be listed as risks of alternative sex for teens.

The most common types of alternative sex that teens might engage in include oral and anal sex, petting, stimulation of the genitals for either partner, mutual masturbation as well as necking or making out. While some of these may seem completely innocent, the likelihood of spreading these infections or STDs is a possibility especially when the alternative sex is unprotected or either partner has had multiple other sexual partners. Condoms may reduce the spread of some of these types of infections or STDs, but unfortunately they do not work anywhere near 100 percent, so it is important for teens to know and understand that abstinence from all types of sexual contact is the only way to completely prevent the possibility of contracting or spreading an STD or other type of infection.

It is important to understand the risks of STDs and the complications they present for those who have them including bleeding, blisters, discharge from the penis or vagina, flu-like symptoms, sore throat, bumps or infection around the genitals or mouth, pain during sex and swelling or redness around the genitals, anus and mouth. It is important for teens to understand these symptoms as most of them are experienced with some or all of the sexually transmitted disease.

Even if the person you are engaging in sexual activities with doesn’t have an STD or is not at risk for one, it is important to know that you can still get other types of infections. This is especially clear in cases of anal sex. Spreading the bacteria that can come from the anus to the vagina or mouth can cause severe infections. While these may not create STDs, the infections that do result can still make a person sick and must be treated. Other risks of alternative sex for teens is less of a health concern, but more of a safety concern. Some teens might find themselves in a situation where the sexual activities start out as seemingly innocent, or aren’t quite sex so they feel like it is okay. However, the partner may not understand the limitations and will push the other teen to engage in sexual intercourse or sex acts that they do not feel comfortable with. Cases like this can turn quickly into sexual assault or even rape. Teens that have had this happen to them need to make sure they report the incident. Even if the incident has never happened, teens need to understand this is a possibility and especially when teens begin engaging in other dangerous behaviors like drugs and alcohol abuse the risk increases even more. The likelihood of other cases of forced sexual encounters can be even more common in such situations, it is important for parents to talk to their kids and teens about being safe.

Sources: mayoclinic.com

Teen Abstinence - What are the Benefits?

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 17:40:00 +0000

Teen abstinence - what are the benefits? There are many benefits of teen abstinence, 100% protection against teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases are the two biggest. There is no other method of safe sex that can boast these statistics. Of course, one must keep in mind that sexually transmitted diseases (STD) can be transmitted through oral sex, so teen abstinence only from sexual intercourse cannot prevent all STDs. In this Teen Abstinence - What are the Benefits? article we will take a look at why more and more teens are choosing teen abstinence.

Teen abstinence, simply put, means that a teen does not engage in sexual activity, including oral sex. What teens are finding is that in addition to protecting them from STDs and unplanned teen pregnancies, there are many other health, social, and emotional benefits of choosing teen abstinence. It is interesting that teen abstinence statistics show that more than half of high school age teens participate in teen abstinence. It seems as though sex is everywhere and that "everyone is doing it" but statistics show that it isn't really the case. In fact, 73% of teens reportedly say that they do not think it is embarrassing for a teen to be a virgin and of the teens that are not virgins, 67% report that they wish they had waited until they were older to participate in sexual activity.

If for no other reason than to prevent teen pregnancy and STDs, teen abstinence is a smart choice. But let's consider a few other reasons why teen abstinence may be a good choice. In addition to being physical, sex is also very emotional. Teens that participate in sexual activity are putting their heart on the line. When one engages in any type of sexual activity both parties are opening themselves up to a whole new range of inexperienced, powerful emotions. Because sex can involve such intensely gratify and euphoric emotions, the opposite is also true, sex can result in some very powerful feelings of anger, depression, and loneliness. When you think about how many boyfriends/girlfriends a teen goes through in high school, and all the heartache that is associated with these relationships without adding sex into the mix, you can just imagine how much more devastating these relationships can be when they involve sex.

Whatever your choices are in regard to sexual activity, make sure you learn about sex. The more you know the more prepared you are to handle whatever situations arise. Understanding sexually transmitted diseases and sexually transmitted infections (STI) and how they are spread is the only way that one is going to be adequately prepared to prevent them. Choosing teen abstinence is a guaranteed way to avoid them, but at some point you will be ready to participate in sexual activities and will want to be sure that at when that time comes you are prepared for it and know how to protect yourself. The same is true when it comes to pregnancy, the more you understand about getting pregnant and birth control options, the more prepared you will be to handle each situation as it arises. Keep in mind that birth control pills are very effective but not 100% effective and they do not protect against STDs or STIs.

PregnantTeenHelp.org Review

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:32:00 +0000

PregnantTeenHelp.org is one of the best resources on the web to provide sexually active teens with a resource to learn more about pregnancy, safe sex, pregnancy prevention as well as information about all of your options for those teens who have already discovered they are unexpectedly pregnant. The possibility of being pregnant during ones teen years can be a stressful situation. In most cases, teens are not actively looking to become pregnant, but one-third of teen girls in the United States still become pregnant every year, according to the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy.

While teen pregnancy statistics show rates are slightly down in recent years since a major decline in 2005, these numbers are still very high and need to be headed on an even steeper decline. Nearly 18 billion dollars is spent each year in the United States to the benefit of young teen mothers on federal and state government assistance programs. These numbers are high and the tax payers are footing the bill. To help prevent these numbers from continuing to grow, teens need to be informed. That is why on PregnantTeenHelp.org, teens are given the information they need to make smart and informed decisions about pregnancy prevention and having safe sex. Being a teen is difficult enough without having to add the idea of an unplanned pregnancy into the mix. Learning about birth control, condoms and other types of pregnancy prevention are all topics covered in the articles written on PregnantTeenHelp.org. Some of the information on the website also covers your options if you are a teen and discover that you are pregnant. These topics cover information on adoption, abortion and parenting options. More information about child birth, pregnancy health and nutrition are also topics that are discussed regularly on the site in updated articles continually being added to the website.

Being a teen mom can be tough and often includes the teen dropping out of high school let alone attending college. Teens are also likely to be and remain single parents. Teens that have unprotected sex are at a 25 percent risk for becoming pregnant. If you are a parent of a teen that might be sexually active, it is a good idea to have them check out a website like PregnantTeenHelp.org to learn about their options for safe sex. Keeping an open communication with your teen is a vital part of establishing limits when it comes to sex, protection and teen pregnancy. Teens that are pregnant and feel they have no where to turn to learn about their options for becoming a teen mother or for considering alternative options as well, can always turn to PregnantTeenHelp.org for help and more information. There are ways for a teen mom to become successful, but it is a tough road. There is a lot that goes into having a healthy pregnancy including proper diet, nutrition and taking care of your body. There is also a lot to know about child birth options and other pregnancy issues. PregnantTeenHelp.org covers those topics with new articles with more information being added regularly. Check out PregnantTeenHelp.org today to learn more about teen pregnancy, options for pregnant teens and how to be safe when having sex.

2011 Teen Drug Abuse Statistics - Drug Abuse Rising

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:31:00 +0000

With the release of new 2011 teen drug abuse statistics by the Center on Addiction and Substance Abuses at Columbia University, the numbers show drug abuse is rising among teens after having been in a state of decline over the past 10 years. These new findings of the 2011 teen drug abuse statistics indicate that more teens are turning to marijuana, underage drinking and abusing other addictive drugs and substances as a way to cope with stress. Many teens in the study reported having an abundance of stress in their lives, which is why they turn to drug use as a coping mechanism.

Teen drug abuse statistics clearly indicate drug abuse is rising among teens. In fact, the number of teens reported using marijuana is at 39 percent, up from 32 percent. The number of teens using Ecstasy as a party drug is also up from six percent to 10 percent. The biggest problem with teens doing these drugs and other addictive substances like tobacco, cocaine and alcohol at such a young age is that addiction takes stronger roots during a person’s adolescence. To stop the addiction and drug abuse trend from continuing to rise, it is important to talk to your children and teens about the dangers of drug use.

Many teens might not fully understand the risks to their health and futures they are taking when they begin sampling drugs at a young age. They may not fully understand the risk at becoming addicted to the drugs or alcohol use. This is especially true for teens since the teen brain is not fully developed, the chances of addiction are even greater. According to the new 2011 teen drug abuse statistics, about 75 percent of the teens admitted to trying drugs or alcohol before the age of 18. Out of those numbers about one in three teens are currently showing signs of addiction to an addictive substance like tobacco, alcohol, cocaine and other drugs, as demonstrated in the 2011 teen drug abuse statistics.

With drug abuse rising among teens, this is clearly something that needs to be taken care of now before these numbers continue to grow. With the responsibility of prevention weighing heavily on the parents of these teens, it is important for parents to look for the teen drug abuse warning signs early. Hopefully early treatment and prevention methods will help to decrease the likelihood that their teen will become a life-long addict that struggles with their addiction throughout their life.

Taking addiction into their adulthood is something that will affect just about everything in their life from jobs to education and relationships. Addictions to drugs and alcohol make it difficult to be successful as an adult in just about every aspect of ones life. This is why it is so important for parents to not be afraid to talk to their kids about the dangers of drugs. Be realistic and lay out all of the details on the line to them. Monitor their activities and ensure you know what kinds of activities they are involved with as well as their friendships with other teens. Playing an active role in your child’s life is a proven way to help prevent them from underage drinking, trying drugs and other illegal substances. Making efforts early is one of the best ways from stopping this drug abuse rising trend among teens.

Teen Suicide Statistics

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 18:43:00 +0000

Recent teen suicide statistics indicate that there are nearly 7.9 suicides per 100,000 for ages 15 to 24 in the United States. These teen suicide statistics mean that suicide is the third leading cause of death in that age range. Teen suicide statistics around the world have reached about 1.5 million each year.

Teen suicide statistics are high for a number of reasons. Being the third cause of death among teens and young adults in the United States means there is a problem in American with being able to recognize the signs of depression and suicide. This is especially true because suicide is a major, preventable health problem. There are some risk factors involved with those who try and commit suicide. Many of these risk factors should be used as warning signs to those with loved ones that might be part of the at-risk group for depression or suicide. Being aware of the warning signs is the best way to get the numbers from the teen suicide statistics to go down throughout the United States and the rest of the world.

Teen Suicide Statistics:
According to recent teen suicide statistics, those at the greatest risk for depression and suicidal behaviors are teens in the 15 to 24 age group. Also, those who are gay and lesbian also struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts and tendencies. Youth who engage in high-risk sexual or drug-related behaviors are also at a higher risk to be linked with depression and teen suicide statistics. Like adults, teens with high risk of depression and links to depression in other family members or diseases like manic depression or bipolar disorder are more likely to become an increased suicide risk.

Teen Suicide Prevention:
To help lower these teen suicide risks, it is important to know what the signs of depression and suicidal thoughts and tendencies are to help prevent suicide from happening. These signs may include teens showing signs of depression, inability to sleep or sleeping too much, irritability, refusal to talk, difficulty coping with stress, grief or other life challenges as well as drinking or drug use. Other risk factors or symptoms of depression or suicide may include suicidal tendencies like self-mutilation where a teen may be harming themselves through cutting, burning, etc. All of these are signs and possible symptoms of depression. About 90 percent of people who commit suicide have previously shown signs of depression.

Open communication is the most important part with teens. If your teen is exhibiting one or more of these signs and refuses to talk about it, it might be time to engage in professional therapy and/or antidepressant medications. If you are a friend of a teen that is having suicidal thoughts or is constantly depressed, encourage them to get help. If they do not want to get help on their own, it might be a good idea to notify a parent or teacher. Even if you are worried about them becoming mad at you for telling an adult about the situation, you still might be able to save their life.

If you are a teen with some of these symptoms, take this chance to get help now. Speak with a parent or trusted adult to try and get help. There are also teen depression hotlines or teen suicide help lines that work by allowing you to call in and get information on getting help. Sometimes teens simply need a willing ear to listen to their struggles. This is a great way to get that outlet. However, sometimes it may be more to the point of seeing a licensed professional.

Some teens also might be excellent candidates for the use of antidepressants to help them with their severe depression. This might be a great way to help prevent those teen suicide statistics from continuing to rise. If you are interested in learning more about antidepressants, be sure to consult with your health care professional. Some teens react the opposite to antidepressants, so it may not be a good idea for all to take them. However, simply speak with your doctor or therapist to learn more. Taking an active role to help curb the millions of Americans who struggle with depression each year, is taking the right step toward lowering teen suicide statistics.

Sources: nimh.nih.gov, comfortyourheart.com

TeenDepression.org Review

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:42:00 +0000

Teen depression can be very scary. It is often hard for parents to know how serious a teen's depression is. With so many changes and stresses in the life of a teen it is not unusual for a teen to have episodes of depression. A parent may or may not even be aware that a teen is depressed. For those parents that know their teen is depressed, they may wonder what is normal teen depression and at what point do they need to seek help for the teen depression. We recently came across a website that has some useful information and help for parents that need more information about teen depression: TeenDepression.org. This website contains information relating to teen depression: statistics, prevention, facts on teen depression, and more. The site appears to be updated regularly to provide as much help and information as possible.

There are many types of depression and causes of depression. Whether a teen is depressed because of excess teen stress, bullying, obesity, or any number of other teen issues, therapy for depression may be needed. The more information parents have about teens and depression, the more they will be able to help. Studying resources like those at TeenDepression.org can provide helpful insight but should never replace the advice or help of a medical professional. Anyone that is aware of a teen that is depressed and shows any suicidal tendencies should seek professional help immediately.

TeenDepression.org also provides a resource section to assist in finding help for a teen suffering from depression. This area includes depression symptoms, depression hotlines with tips for deciding when to call, as well as alternative methods for contacting these hotlines if a person does not want to call. Some support can be offered via email for teens that are worried about making a phone call or for parents that need more information about a question they have regarding teen depression. TeenDepression.org also provides a list of depression related websites that offer additional information and help related to teen depression.

While TeenDepression.org does focus on teen depression, they also provide some helpful articles on depression in children and depression in college students. No matter what stage of life your child is in, if they are dealing with depression they are going to need a lot of extra help and support. For a person that has never suffered from depression it may be very hard to understand why the individual can not simply let go of what is bothering them and move on. It is very important to understand depression and the power it holds over an individual so that there is no judgment or misplaced anger placed upon the person dealing with depression.

Take the time to learn more about teen depression and how you can help and support the teen to help him/her feel better and learn ways to deal with the depression so that it does not control his/her life. TeenDepression.org also provides information about other teen issues like teen social issues, teen suicide, and teen stress that can lead to teen depression. Keep in mind that not all teen issues can be dealt with through discipline. There are times that teens need professional help, someone outside of their normal sphere of influence to help deal with issues that are overwhelming to him/her. Talking to your teen and asking them if they would like some help or would like someone to talk to can be a good place to start. If you are worried about the cost, check into community programs or check with the school to find out about assistance they may be able to provide. Help is available, keep talking to people until you can find someone to help.

Thinspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 20:46:00 +0000

What is thinspiration? Where do you find thinspiration? Why is thinspiration not a good idea? Find out answers to all these questions about thinspiration in this article. Also learn about Pro-ana, Pro-mia, and pro-eating disorder support and websites.

What Is Thinspiration?
Thinspiration is a term made by combining the words thin and inspiration. It refers to images of women who are naturally or unnaturally thin that are used by people who support the practice of anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa as encouragement to continue their quest for a body that is thin enough to meet their desires. These supporters, know as Pro-ana or Pro-mia, depending on their disorder, may often claim that anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are desirable lifestyle choices rather than eating disorders.
Thinspiration may include:

Images of naturally thin or objectively emaciated celebrities used to motivate viewers to become similarly thin (or emaciated).
Images of high-calorie foods and people who are overweight or obese to used to motivate viewers to reject those foods and that appearance in favor of thinness.
Images of the viewers themselves to document their own "successes" and encourage each other.
Inspirational quotations of any material that can be interpreted to fit the Thinspiration approach as well as materials developed specifically for Thinspiration.

Where Is Thinspiration Found?
Thinspiration is found both on forums, blogs, and websites that are explicitly pro-ana or pro-mia, as well as on forums and chat pages that are generally about eating disorders or target a specific eating disorder. This means that a person who recognizes his or her own eating disorder as a problem may run into comments by or even conflict with pro-anas or pro-mias who choose to post on the site and critcize those who see the condition as a medical problem.

What's Wrong with Thinspiration?
There are a number of problems with Thinspiration and the approach into which it fits, whether pro-ana or pro-mia:

By denying a true medical issue, it prevents people from getting treatment.
It encourages people to aim for and exist at any unhealthy weight.
It encourages poor nutirition that does not support good physical and mental health.
It encourages people to participate in practices that are detrimental to their health, whether over-exercising, vomiting, the use of laxatives and emetics, etc.
It removes focus from other activities in life besides eating and encourages a minute focus on the details of food intake.
It induces competition for greater weight-loss among people who might otherwise have been satisfied with their looks.
It presents a hostile front to people outside its ranks, no matter how well-meaning or objectively correct.
It enables pro-anas and pro-mias by providing hints and tips about diets that will induce greater weight loss, ways to refuse food without arousing suspicion, and ideas about how to hide the practices of anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa from friends, families, and medical professionals.
It encourages people not to seek medical attention when they need it.
It provides hints for suppressing and ignoring feelings of hunger that could lead to eating.
It derides people who are trying to lose weight in a healthy way as anorexic wannabees or wannarexics.

While there is nothing wrong with inspiring oneself in a variety of methods while undertaking healthy weight loss, thinspiration is unhealthy and you should avoid it and the culture around it.

Childhood Obesity

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 19:40:00 +0000

Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic in the United States and many health care professionals are becoming more and more concerned with the future of these obese children. Childhood obesity is often guaranteed to cause serious health problems later in life for the child.

Using the Body Mass Index (BMI) measurement, doctors and health care professionals are able to determine whether or not a child is at risk for childhood obesity. This measurement calculates the BMI based on the child's height and weight to find out if it is within a healthy range or not. This method does not measure the child's fat percentage directly, but it is also uses as a reasonable method of measurement to determine the body fatness for children and teens. Overweight children are defined with a BMI at or above the 85th percent, but lower than the 95th percentile for children of the same age and sex. Obesity, however, it defined if the BMI of the child is at or above the 95th percentile compared with children of the same age and sex.

Symptoms and consequences of childhood obesity:
Unfortunately there are some serious health problems and consequences that come about as the result of childhood obesity, which is a growing problem since more and more children throughout the United States are becoming obese. There are also many mental and emotional problems that can result from childhood obesity like poor self-esteem and teen depression. Some of the most harmful effects of childhood obesity include the likelihood of the child developing high blood pressure and cholesterol. Many risk factors because of these symptoms include cardiovascular disease. The obese child is also more likely to have increase risk of impaired glucose tolerance as well as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Children with weight problems, particularly those who are obese, are likely to have breathing problems like sleep apnea and asthma. The child may also develop joint problems and Musculoskeletal discomfort. These obese children and teens will also likely develop fatty liver disease, gallstones, gastro-esophageal reflux as well as social and psychological problems like discrimination and poor self-esteem. Many of these health and emotional problems can last into adulthood. Obese children are also likely to become obese adults. Adult obesity is one of the top leading causes of death that could have been prevented in the United States. Childhood obesity also causes the obesity in adults to be more severe.

Prevention and treatment:
The best way to prevent and treat childhood obesity is to focus on a healthy lifestyle, which includes a well-balanced diet and exercise regime. For children under age seven who are facing weight troubles, it is important to focus more on weight maintenance than weight loss. Children at this age are still going to be growing a lot in the coming years. These added inches will help the child accommodate the weight the child has accumulated. However children over age seven are recommended to try and lose weight, but to do so slowly and steadily. This can be done by regulated the amount of sweets and unhealthy foods they consume while encouraging an increase in physical activity. The success in these kinds of situations rely heavily on the support of the parents. Because the children facing the weight problems are so young, they will not be able to successfully complete any kind of fitness regime or proper diet. When it comes to encouraging your child to eat well, shop better. By buying groceries like fruits and veggies versus cookies and candies, you are already setting your child up for learning to eat better. Limit the number of sweetened beverages your child can consume each day like sweetened juices, soda and sugary drinks. Make dinner more of a family get together than something they can do in front of the TV. Limit the amount of times you eat out especially at fast food restaurants, etc.

Physical activity is the easy part with children because most children will want to play outdoors with their friends at recess or enjoy playing sports, going swimming, riding their bike, etc. It is a great idea as a parent to encourage these kinds of activities. As video games, TV and movies continue to grow in popularity, these sources of entertainment take over the activities that kids get their physical activity from. This is why it is important to encourage your children to play outside and to get regular exercise. In the most severe of cases with childhood obesity, sometimes surgery or medications to encourage weight loss are recommended by doctors. However, it is important to try the old fashioned method of proper diet and exercise in the first place before you move to more drastic measures.

Sources: cdc.gov, mayoclinic.com

New Teen ʺSextingʺ Bill

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 20:54:00 +0000

Many lawmakers throughout the country are creating and enacting laws to prohibit a practice known as sexting among teens. In some states like New Jersey these lawmakers are doing their best to get bills passed that would crack down on the act of teens who are caught sending explicit photos via their cell phone. However, under some of the laws like the one that might be passed in New Jersey, the teens would not face criminal prosecution, but instead would have to undergo intense educations and ramifications. The sexting problem continues to grow, causing inappropriate exploitation of minors in the public school system and in many communities. In some states, prosecutors have even filed charges against teens with criminal offenses like the distribution of child pornography,

According to new statistics from the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, about one in five teens ages 13 to 18 have sent a nude or semi-nude picture or video of themselves to friends or have posted one on a website. The problem with this kind of practice is that if the photos become public rather than private, they become known as child pornography because the subject of the photo is found in a explicit or compromised situation and is under the age of 18. Because most states are really trying to crack down on this problem, most teens who distribute these photos are being charged with child pornography possession and distribution.

However, some find these criminal charges to be considered too harsh for teens who they feel are simply making a mistake, not completely understanding the ramifications involved. This is why some states are making changes by instituting a bill to directly address such sexting issues. The New Jersey bill, for example, would create an educational program that serves as an alternative to prosecution for juveniles who would normally be charged with a criminal offense for posting or sending such photos. The participants of the educational program would have to learn about the potential state and federal legal consequences of such actions like sexting. The teens would also learn about the personal costs sexting behaviors influence such as impact on college applications, future job opportunities, relationships and other future situations.

If a teen successfully completed the program they would be able to avoid trial and possible jail time. However, repeat offenders or teens who fail the program would face much more dire circumstances. Lawmakers are hoping new measures like these kinds of laws will help to educate teens about poor behaviors that can have a negative and long-lasting impact on their lives. However, not all states have laws like this so it is important for teens to use their judgment when it comes to consider acting on behaviors like this. Sexting can have serious consequences for teens both legally and on their own personal lives and futures. If you are a parent, be sure to discuss topics like this with your teen so they understand how serious the matter is and how to avoid putting themselves in such situations.

Teen Summer Jobs

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:26:00 +0000

As the school year comes to an end and summer begins many teenagers are starting their search for teen summer jobs. In this economy some may say that teen summer jobs are non-existent. But, in this article we offer suggestions for teens looking for summer jobs.

The Advantages of a Summer Job for a Teen
Sometimes a summer job can be a family necessity. Many workers lost their jobs during the recession, and some are still unemployed. A teen’s contribution to the family income may be extremely important. Even when it’s not needed, a teen’s income can help him or her afford extras or save for college.

A summer job gives a teen the opportunity to ease his or her way into the workforce. Employers know that students coming to work for them need training and don’t have much experience, and if they’re wise, they’ve set their sites accordingly, so the atmosphere is often a good one in which to learn the ropes.

Having work experience prior to graduation means that there won’t be as much of a learning curve when the teen – now a young adult – enters the workforce. Having a little experience with office politics, office deadlines, handling a weekly or biweekly paycheck, etc., not only makes the recent grad in-the-know, but also gives him or her items to list on the all-important resume, whether for admission to higher education or for a job application.

The recommendation of an employer can be valuable as well. Students may use employer’s recommendations in their higher education application material and cite them as references in their job hunting after they graduate.

Types of Jobs a Teen Typically Can Hold
Most jobs that a teen can hold are entry-level jobs and neighborhood jobs. Typical entry-level jobs include working as a cashier or sales clerk at a retail store that caters to teens or at a grocery store; stocking shelves at retail stores; delivering papers; and restaurant work, such as waiting tables and dishwashing.

If a teen is fortunate enough to have an area of expertise, he or she may be able to teach or coach or do other work related to the specialty. Teens who have participated in sports and developed a talent in sports or the arts may be able to teach swimming or give piano lessons or tennis lessons or coach younger kids who are learning soccer or track, for example. A teen who excels in or is a native speaker of a language other than English might give language lessons, and a teen who is especially good in school might tutor younger students or students who are less able. Teens who play golf also work as golf caddies at golf courses, and teens who ride may find work at the stables. Teens who juggle or do magic tricks may get gigs performing at birthday parties.

Within their neighborhood and among their acquaintances, students may be able to find various kinds of household-related work. They may be hired to babysit by neighbors, teachers, and friends of their parents. They may mow lawns or care for flower and/or vegetable gardens. They may be hired to do house cleaning, dog or cat sitting, or house sitting, when people are going on vacation and don’t want to leave the house completely empty.

Sometimes, when a household is having a special celebration, they may hire teens to help with preparing or serving a meal, or providing entertainment for the children of guests.

Teenage Depression

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Thu, 26 May 2011 15:54:00 +0000

There are many emotional issues that adolescents must face, some of these may includ teenage depression, anxiety and stress. It is important to be able to know how to watch for the signs of teenage depression and how to combat the mental illness before it gets too out of control. There are many cases of teenage depression when the symptoms went unnoticed and the teen ended up with severe results like eating disorders, self mutilation and even suicide. It is best to treat the symptoms of teenage depression before they get to such levels of severity. Keep reading to find out more about teenage depression and how to seek treatment.

There are many types of depression. Teens are most likely to have issues with major depression, chronic depression or biopolar depression. While not all of the symptoms have to be present in order to diagnose teenage depression, having one or more of these symptoms could indicate there is a problem with depression.

Fatigue or loss of energy daily
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness daily
Difficulty concentrating
Insomnia or excessive sleeping
Lack of interest in almost all activities
Irresponsible behavior
Sudden drop in grades
Rebellious behavior
Recurring thoughts of death or suicide
Significant weight loss or gain within a month’s time

Because a lot of these symptoms can mean a number of different medical issues, in order to determine if the teenager’s condition is considered depression, these feelings must persist almost daily or every day for at least two weeks. Many parents might feel like it is normal for their teen to experience drastic mood swings especially with the hormone changes teens must face during their adolescent years. However with eight out of ten diagnosed with teenage depression, it is important to watch your teen to determine if they are experiencing normal teenage ups and downs or if it is something more serious. If you are a teen experiencing any of these symptoms for a prolonged period of time, it is important to talk to a parent or trusted adult about seeking help and treatment for these symptoms.

Teenage depression treatment:
There are many different ways to treat teenage depression. One of the most common ways is through psychotherapy. Another common type of treatment is often through antidepressants, which is often used in combination with therapy and counseling treatments. However, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that some antidepressant medications can actually increase the suicide risk among teens and children. It is important to seek a doctor’s advice when it comes to the possibility of taking antidepressants. When it comes to counseling or therapeutic treatments, family counseling might be a helpful tool for teens who have issues with family conflicts that might be playing a large role in their depression symptoms.

Teen suicide is a major problem with it becoming one of the leading causes of death among teens. Teenage depression, if left ignored and untreated, can result in suicide. Teenage depression statistics show that there are about 500,000 attempted teen suicides in the United States each year with about 5,000 succeeding attempts. Before the depression issues get this far, parents use parenting skills to help alleviate some of the symptoms of teenage depression. Some of these skills include allowing your teen to make mistakes. Overprotecting your teen or monopolizing their decision making opportunities can hinder their confidence. Another matter to keep in mind is to be careful to allow your teen to do what they want to do in life with goal setting and following their own dreams. Try not to mold your child into some ideal image. Keep in mind that even if you don’t think the problems your teen is facing is a big deal, it might be a big deal to someone who is growing up and experiencing such intense emotions for the first time. Talk to your teen and encourage them to come to you for help with their teenage depression symptoms. It will help them to know you are there for them.
Sources:
webmd.com

Teenage Dating

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 18 May 2011 19:42:00 +0000

When it comes to teenage dating, the most important thing to remember is that your teen will want to date, which is why it is important to teach them dating safety and responsibility. Unfortunately there are about 20 in 1000 women from ages to 16 to 24 that experience intimate violence during teenage dating. Numbers like these prove that teens need to remember to date safely and to be prepared for dating emergencies. Keep reading to learn more about the basics of teenage dating.

Teenage Dating Statistics
According to the Bureau of Justice Special Report: Intimate Partner Violence, about one in three high school students have been involved in an abusive relationship.
About 20 percent of teenage dating couples have experienced some kind of violence in their relationship.
About 68 percent of teenage women knew their rapist either as a boyfriend, friend or casual acquaintance.

Teenage Dating Safety
For teens who are new to dating, it is a good idea to try group dating or double dating as a way to get to know the person you are dating while having others around for security in case the date turns out to not be the person you thought they were. Before leaving on the date, make sure a parent knows your plans and what time you should be home. It is also to keep in mind that alcohol and drug use impair your judgement and ability to move quickly or escape a bad situation. It is also of the utmost importance to trust your instincts. If there is a situation where you feel uncomfortable, remain calm and think of a way to go home or get to safety. Make sure you know who to call if you need a ride home in case a situation like this arises. It is good to have an escape plan. Have a plan and be prepared in case something does happen. Keep your cell phone on and charged in case you need to make an emergency phone call.

Teenage Dating and Sexuality
Many teens face the pressures to have sex or engage in sexual activities while dating. Many teens simply want to experiment or express their love for a girlfriend or boyfriend. As a parent, help your teen to be prepared. Teach them about birth control as well as the risks of sexually transmitted diseases and infections. According to teenage dating statistics, about six out of 10 rapes of young women occur in their own home or a friend’s home while on some kind of date. The term date rape has become the norm for describing the majority of rape cases. As a teen, make sure you know the risks associated with teen sex including STDs, teenage pregnancy as well as the potential for dangerous situations like rape or sexual assault. This is also the time it is important to keep in mind that alcohol and drugs are inhibitors to your conscious, which might lead you to do something you don’t want to do.

The world of teenage dating has changed with the use of cell phones, social networking and other moder technologies, parents and teens alike need to be aware of the risks involved with teenage dating and how to go about it prepared and safely in order to avoid unnecessary risks and dangerous situations.

Sources: http://www.webmd.com, http://www.acadv.org/dating.html

What is the choking game?

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 11 May 2011 22:10:00 +0000

Although your teen probably has a good understanding, as a parent you may still be wondering what is the choking game? In recent years, this game has grown in popularity among teens and often results in dangerous consequences including some cases of death. Keep reading to find out more about the answer to what is the choking game and to find solutions to help educate your teen to keep them safe.

What is the choking game?

The choking game is an activity that has found popularity among teens, but is mostly known for causing death, injuries and long-term brain damage. The choking game is also known as the fainting game as well as a wide variety of slang names like Blackout, Rocket Ride and more. The game works by intentionally cutting off oxygen and air supply to the brain with the intent to achieve a level of euphoria. Many doctors and researchers have determined the primary goal of the game to be to get high without the use of drugs. However, severe repercussions have been found to result. In some cases, teens have been deprived of enough oxygen for a lengthy enough of time to result in long-term brain development and brain damage. In other more serious cases, teens have actually died as a result from playing the choking game.

How does the choking game work?

When it comes to knowing the answer to the question, what is the choking game, it is important to know and understand how it works. During strangulation, using a belt or rope, or using hand and arm pressure on the neck, there are two responses that occur. Insufficient blood flow to the brain combined with lack of oxygen can result in fainting. The heart race also decreases, which can result in cardiac arrest. There are several ways teens will play the choking game including using a rope or belt, or having a friend place pressure on the neck.

Injuries arising from the choking game:

Any time the brain is deprived of oxygen, there is the potential to create moderate to severe brain damage. This can range from permanent neurological function loss to difficulty concentrating, short term memory loss, lifelong mental disability as well as death. Documentation of these instances are difficult to track because in many cases the choking game death may have been mistakenly ruled a suicide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there about been about 82 teen and child deaths that have resulted from ages 6 to 19 since 1995 in the United States. About 86 percent of these deaths were male and usually occurred when the teen was trying the choking game alone. Neurological damage and other injuries as a result of the choking game is even more difficult to track.

How parents can help:

One of the best ways you can prevent your child from getting involved in dangerous activities like the choking game is to talk to them about it. Explain the risks that are associated with playing the game. There are also warning signs you can watch for including:

Your child keeping a rope or plastic bag
Bloodshot eyes
Headaches
Marks on the child’s neck

It is important for parents to talk to their child about the dangers of the choking game, and to be aware of the signs associated with the game in order to prevent death or serious injuries resulting to your child.

Sources: http://www.cbsnews.com, http://www.gaspinfo.com,

Bullycide: Bullying and Suicide

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Fri, 06 May 2011 13:10:00 +0000

Bullycide, a term coined by Neil Marr and Tim Field in the book Bullycide: Death at Playtime, is the combination of two words bullying and suicide indicating that bullying, in some cases, can lead to the victim committing suicide. Suicide is a very hard subject to talk about and understand. Bullying on the other hand is talked about and discussed much more openly. This new term Bullycide is a way to look at the possible link between bullying and suicide.

Bullycide is gaining attention because loved ones left behind, when someone commits suicide, want to tell their story. They want to prevent the same thing from happening to others and they want justice for their loved one. Bullying can happen anywhere, from online or cyber bullying to bullying at work, home, school, through text messaging and more. Bullying statistics are on the rise according to bullying statistics reported by the National Center for Education Statistics. In 2007 32% of students aged 12-18 reported having been bullied at school during the school year, these bullying statistics are up from 14% in 2001.

So, what is bullying? Bullying has been defined in many different ways. A general definition found on the web states “the act of intimidating a weaker person to make them do something”. This is a very broad generalization and by no means all inclusive. Bullying can be through taunting, exclusion, verbal methods, physical intimidation,or even written means and can occur between any number of individuals: parent to child, teacher to student, boy to girl and the opposite of any of these. Bullying knows no limits. Often the one doing the bullying thinks they are teasing ad mean no real harm. What may have little or no effect on on person could be devastating to another.

Some cases of bullying are cut and dry and easy to prove but most cases of bullying are subtle and carried out through social media or other means that may conceal identity and make it very hard to prove and/or track. Because of all the variables involved in bullying and how bullying affects each individual, suicide or bullycide occurs far more often than it should. Any suicide brings about questions of why didn’t someone do something? Why didn’t anyone help this individual. The truth is, there is no easy answer. No one can fully understand what another person is going through. Something that may seem trivial to one individual may be devastating to another.

There is no easy answer for preventing bullying, suicide, or bullycide. Talk to your loved ones. Listen to your loved ones. Seek professional help if you are concerned that a loved ones behavior is not normal. Talk to your children about bullying from a young age. When your child comes to you with hurt feelings take the opportunity to help them recognize the pain that comes from being hurt by someone else so that they will think about and recognize it when presented with the opportunity to be mean to another. Just because it is hard and there are no easy answers doesn’t mean we do nothing but rather it means we do many small things all the time.

Source: nces.ed.gov

Teenage Problems? Get Teen Help Now

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 18:30:00 +0000

In today’s world there are many teenage problems teens have to face including drug and alcohol abuse, cutting, depression, violence, teen pregnancy and more. With so many of these teenage problems on the rise, it is important for teens to know and understand the risks associated with these issues. If you are facing some of these teenage problems, get teen help now. There are many specialist who can provide teen help to those dealing with these very serious teen issues.

On our teenhelp.com website, we feature new articles regularly on some of the biggest teenage problems out there. Teens who suffer from drug and alcohol abuse problems may not always know where to turn for help. In our articles, we feature information about the teenage problems including how to seek treatment and treatment solutions. Many teens experience problems with cutting,depression, and anxiety symptoms but are too afraid to tell their parents about it. It is important for teens with these kinds of problems to reach out and communicate with their parents or a trusted adult before it goes too far. Many teens experience teenage problems like behavior issues and teen violence. These feelings and actions can be harmful to others as well as the teen who experiences the violent behavior. Seeking treatment for these types of behaviors is the best way to prevent more serious issues from developing.

Drugs and alcohol abuse
About 72 percent of teens have tried alcohol by the time they graduate from high school. Many of these teens take the alcohol use too far and experience alcohol abuse symptoms including alcoholism, alcohol poisoning, and other alcohol-related problems. Other teens might have problems with drug use. They may begin using drugs out of curiosity or because they are looking for a way to cope with emotional issues. There are many negative side effects to using drugs. Parents who find themselves with teens who have teenage problems like alcohol or drug abuse should try to find a way to help their teen through support and mental health treatment options. There are also medications like Antabuse and Nextatrone that can be used to help treat teens who abuse alcohol and drugs. Other negative repercussions of using alcohol and drugs is that is can lower inhibitions and lead to more likely cases of unprotected sex, which can result in unintended teenage pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Teen pregnancy and STDs:
While abstinence education is important for teens to know and understand how to prevent pregnancy and STDs, it is also important for teens to understand how to properly use condoms, birth control and other forms of contraception in cases that sexual intercourse does occur. With teenage pregnancy rates on the rise as well as more and more teens becoming infected with STDs, it is clear that teens do not know how to properly use contraception and other forms of birth control. Parents should talk to their teen about these kinds of teenage problems to help them understand the importance of safe sex.

Mental health teenage problems:
Many teenage problems are found in teens who suffer from cases of teen depression and anxiety. These are severe teenage problems that can result in cases of cutting, self mutilation and even suicide. Noticing the symptoms of a depressed teen is important for parents to be aware of so they can help try and treat the symptoms of depression their teen is facing before they get too bad.

Teen violence:
The cases of teens who act out violently are beginning to rise. Many teens do not know how to properly express their anger and instead take it out on friends and family in a violent manner. Teens with these kinds of teenage problems like anger management issues and violent behavior should look for a healthy outlet to channel that anger like in sports, exercising, writing or other ways teens can express their emotions and frustrations rather than exploding with violence.

These types of violent teenage problems are often the result of underlying unstable emotional issues. In some cases, parents should talk to their children about getting mental health support and treatment to help resolve these issues. If you are concerned about your child's teen violence issues, talk to your pediatrician or family doctor for more information and help.

Sources: http://kidshealth.org, cdc.gov

Featured Site for Parenting: FamilyFirstAid.org

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 21:27:00 +0000

The purpose of Teen Help is to provide teens, and families of teenagers, information that will help guide them through what can sometimes be a very challenging time as children enter into their pre-teen and teenage years. Most teens experience more change and more challenges during these years than any other time in their life. At teenhelp.com we offer a variety of articles on topics that teens may need help with during this period of time. But, we also realize having more than one source of good information can be helpful. For this reason, we are featuring a site we think has useful information for parents of teens - FamilyFirstAid.org

The Family First Aid website is designed to help parents who have a teen that may be struggling with a specific issue such as:

Peer Pressure
School Bullying
Self Esteem
Learning Disabilities
Stress
Depression
Teen Pregnancy
etc...

Although the overall design of the FamilyFirstAid site appears to be geared towards helping parents of troubled teens in finding treatment programs and alternative education options, these articles may also be helpful to the teen themselves as they can learn how to overcome some of their own issues and how to deal with these things in a educated way. Teens often have friends that will confide in them or ask advice on issues they may not be very familiar with. For instance, a teen may have a friend that confided thoughts of suicide, fears of developing an eating disorder, or a drug abuse issue. If the teen has not had any experience in this area the Family First Aid articles can give them a better understanding of what the friend may be going through and offer tips on how they may want to handle the situation.

For parents who are looking for help with a troubled teen the site has several articles that explain what each type of youth program has to offer. Finding the right type of program or treatment facility to fit each families situation is imperitive to the success in resolving the issues. For instance, if a teenager has a substance abuse or drug addiction problem then he/she is going to need something along the lines of a residential treatment facility. A military school is not necessarily the best answer for a teen who is struggling in school or has emotional or behavioral problems. Many people also have the impression that boarding schools specialize in dealing with drug issues, behavior problems, etc...when in actuality the traditional boarding school is designed more for students who can excel academically and act as more of a college prep school than a behavioral school. For more detail on the different types of programs available for troubled youth visit the familyfirstaid.org site.

Teen Pregnancy Statistics 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 18:08:00 +0000

Teen pregnancy statistics for 2010 have shown that teen pregnancies in the United States have dropped slightly since 2007. In 2005 to 2007, the numbers of teen pregnancies spiked the highest they had been since the early 1990s. However, these new teen pregnancy statistics 2010 illustrate that the downward trend in pregnancies for girls 15 to 19 has resumed since then although the reason is unknown. Even though teen pregnancy statistics are on the downward slide, the United States still has one of the highest number of teen births per capita based on its population compared to other countries. Keep reading to take a look at these teen pregnancy statistics in more detail.

Teen pregnancy statistics:
As reported in 2010, there were a total of 409,840 infants born to 15 to 19 year old teen girls in 2009.
About two-thirds of births to teens younger than 18, and half of the numbers of teen pregnancies from 18 to 19 were unintended pregnancies.
The teen pregnancy statistics for teens who are Hispanic or black are three times as high as the numbers of non-Hispanic white teen pregnancy rates.
In 2009, teen pregnancy statistics for all races including Hispanic declined. The Hispanic teen birth rate feel to nearly 77 percent. This is the lowest teen pregnancy rate for this group ever recorded.

Although causes for the drops in teen pregnancies are unknown, the overall pregnancy statistics have shown that there has been less pregnancies in just about every age group except for in women over 40 years of age. The reasons for concern of high birth rates for teens stem from the proof that teens cannot handle the socioeconomic burden of teen pregnancy, as well as the fact that it is more difficult for teens to handle the physical pain of childbirth. Teen pregnancy statistics are highest for teens who:

are sexually active
lack access to birth control
are unaware of how to correctly use contraception
live in poverty
have parents (one or both) who are not present in the home
have parents with low educational levels
struggle in school

Teen pregnancy statistics from 2007 show that Hispanic teens are the most likely to get pregnant followed by black non-Hispanic and then American Indian/Alaska native. White non-Hispanic and Asian American/Pacific Islander make up the bottom levels of all teen pregnancy statistics with about 25 percent and 18 percent respectively.

Sources: cdc.gov

New Teen STD Articles on TeenHelp.com

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 19:16:00 +0000

The series of new teen STD articles posted on TeenHelp.com regarding STD information, facts, prevention tips and STD statistics are meant to help teens and their parents looking for information on sexually transmitted diseases and infections.

The articles are updated regularly featuring comprehensive information on some of the most commonly spread STIs among sexually active teens including chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV/AIDS as well as others.

With about 65 percent of all teens engaging in sexual activities and intercourse by the time they graduate from high school, it is important for teens to understand the risk they are taking when having sex unprotected. About 9 million teens and young adults from ages 15 to 24 are diagnosed with a new STD each year. One in four teens will contract an STD before adulthood. Facts like these as well as information on some of the most common types of STDs among teens are featured in this new series of teen STD articles on TeenHelp.com.

STD Facts:

Chlamydia statistics indicate that Chlamydia is one of the most common types of sexually transmitted infections among teens totalling about 40 percent of the infected population.
Only about 42 percent of teen females express interest in learning more about STDs with a health care professional. Because many public schools focus primarily on abstinence-only sex education, STD information and risks during sex are often overlooked when it comes to the school curriculum.
Minorities, primarily Hispanic and African American are the most common at-risk groups for HIV/AIDS as well as other types of STDs. Females also account for a large number of the potential infected teens with STDs and STIs.

The new series of teen STD articles also features information to clear up misconceptions about STDs and how they can be transferred from person to person. Many types of STIs can be transferred through other sexual acts aside from intercourse.

STD information and misconceptions:

Many STDs can be transferred without directly having sex. For example, syphilis can be easily transferred through any kind of sexual contact when there is direct contact with an exposed syphilis sore, which can be found on the mouth, genitals, anus or rectum.
Another misconception about STDs is that many teens believe that if there are not symptoms, they are not infected. With the majority of STDs, most of the time it takes months or even years for symptoms to show, if they ever do. However, even if there are not any visible symptoms, damage can still be done to the body internally.

New informative articles are added regularly to the TeenHelp.com website complete with plenty of information about many of the most commonly transferred STDs among teens.

Sources: avert.org, cdc.gov

New Teen Sex Statistics

noreply@blogger.com (Samantha) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 16:41:00 +0000

New teen sex statistics indicate the number of teens holding on to their virginity is booming, according to new numbers released regarding teens and sex in the 2006-2008 National Health Statistics Report by the Center for Disease Control.

New teen sex statistics:

The teen sex study focused on the age group of teens and young adults age 15 to 24. Out of this age range:
29 percent of women have not had any form of teen sex.
In that same age range, 27 percent of men have not had any form of teen sex.
Only 7 percent of teen girls and young women have experience with oral sex.
Teen boys and young men sex statistics are slightly higher with 10 percent who have experience with oral sex.

Why are more teens abstaining from sex?

Teen pregnancy rates are unfortunately at an all-time high, but the statistics showing teens actually engaging in teen sex are down. What could be behind this new trend?
Virginity is trendy. Many teens might be hopping the abstinence band waggon because their friends tend to be taking a more cautious approach to having teen sex.
Abstinence-only sex education may be working. Although many studies have revealed this form of sex education that has been imposed in America’s schools over the past decade, does not work when it comes to protecting teens against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. The rates for teen pregnancy and the rates of teens infected with various STDs are at an all-time high. However, the abstinence part might be helping more teens say no to sex.
Teens are too busy for sex. More and more teens are becoming involved with after-school activities and jobs, and could just be too busy to worry about teen sex, according to the thoughts of a few of the scientists who generated the new CDC study.
Love. The age-old idea of sex being a romantic notion and should be reserved for that someone special could be an explanation as to why more and more teens are waiting.
Lack of honesty. The new CDC study is based on the word of the teens surveyed. If the individuals who took the survey lied about their answer, that could skew the results, according to one of the experts of the survey.

The new CDC report was completed as a way to provide an update as to the nationwide sexual behavior trends and statistics among sexually active teens.

Schools for Troubled Teens

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 18:25:00 +0000

Finding schools for troubled teens is not as easy as it would seem at first glance. There are many types of alternate schools that you may consider sending your troubled teen to, depending on the type and scope of the teen issues they are facing or problems they are dealing with. In this post we will look at some of the options: boarding schools, military schools and treatment facilities are just a few.

Boarding Schools: when you think about a boarding school, most people automatically think of a private school where you send your child to live during the school term. However, there are actually a number of different types of boarding schools including public boarding schools, Catholic boarding schools, boy or girl specific boarding schools, military boarding schools and others.

Military Schools: when considering a military school, whether you are looking for a military school for boys or a military school for girls, there are many things to think about. How much will it cost, how do you apply, which is the best military school, is there a religious affiliation. Whatever questions or concerns you have you will want to make sure that the school you choose is the best fit for the individual that will be attending.

Boarding schools and military schools aren't always for troubled teens, many choose this type of environment as a alternative to public schools that may not offer the type of college preparation that an individual is looking for. If you have a trouble teen that needs help with a specific issue there are other types of alternative schools for troubled teens that may be more beneficial.

Therapeutic Boarding Schools: a therapeutic boarding school may be a good option for a teen that is struggling with emotional or behavioral issues. Attendance at a therapeutic boarding school is usually a minimum of a year and can provide the change in environment that will help a troubled teen break away from bad friends and learn skills to deal with whatever teen issues they are facing.

Residential Treatment Facilities: a residential treatment facility is generally very specific to troubled teens with serious behavior and psychological issues. Some of these facilities will follow up with transitional arrangements to help them get back to real life like an outdoor therapeutic program or wilderness program.

Whatever type of alternative school you are thinking about or looking into, make sure that it is reputable and that the staff is qualified and has a good reputation. Visit the facility in person to be sure that it is an environment in which your teen will be safe and comfortable. If you have a struggling teen, the last thing you want is to send them to a place that makes them feel insecure or uncomfortable.

Teenage Pregnancy

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 17:23:00 +0000

Whether you are a teen that may be pregnant or a friend or loved one that wants to help a teenager that may be pregnant, there are many things to consider. First, you need to be aware of the signs of pregnancy, such as moodiness, fatigue, nausea or vomiting, breast tenderness, etc. If you think you are pregnant, take a pregnancy test. Pregnancy tests are not very accurate until at least 5 days after you should have started your period. You can buy a pregnancy test over-the-counter at most drug stores for between $5-$20. If you get a positive result, you should schedule a doctor appointment within about a week to verify the results. If the results are negative, this does not necessarily mean you are not pregnant. Pay attention to your body and how you feel. You may want to repeat the test in a week or so if you continue to have symptoms of pregnancy.

Once you know you are pregnant, prenatal care for the teen is essential. This will not only help the baby to grow strong and healthy, but will also keep the teen healthy throughout her pregnancy. When looking for a health care professional, it is often best to ask around. Find out who friends or relatives have used and like. If you are covered on a parent's insurance plan, you may have pregnancy coverage. If this is not an option, many communities have state programs through a Family Services department to provide teen help. If you don't want to talk to your parents about the pregnancy, talk to another trusted adult or look in your local phone book for women's centers or family planning centers. Programs like Baby Your Baby may be available to make sure you receive medical care even if you can't afford to pay for it.

Once you know you are pregnant, as a teenager there are many special considerations that you will need to think about. How will you continue your schooling while you are pregnant? How much support will you have during your pregnancy, from friends, the baby's father, your parents? What childbirth options are available? Are you in a situation to keep and raise the baby or will you consider adoption for your baby? There are many teen help programs available to give you the information you need to make the best choice for yourself and your unborn child. If your family or friends are not helpful or supportive, seek help from other sources. You do not have to go through this teenage pregnancy all alone. Find what teen pregnancy options are available in your area

Surviving an unplanned pregnancy is only the beginning, whether you choose to keep the baby or give it up for adoption, you will have lasting effects to consider. Having a baby not only affects you physically, but emotionally as well. Be sure to continue with a good support system after the baby is born. Remember that raising a baby is a lifetime commitment. Learn about all your options before making a decision.

Alcohol Treatment Centers for Teenage Alcohol Abuse

noreply@blogger.com (Brenda) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 18:29:00 +0000

Teenage alcohol abuse is an ever increasing trend. Teenagers tend to see themselves as indestructible and they like the feelings they get from drinking alcohol. However, they tend to focus on the "I'm funny when I'm drunk" or "people like me better when I've been drinking" type of feelings and don't notice all the negative affects they are experiencing, as being related to drinking alcohol. There are many side effects of abusing alcohol, most include taking risks or making choices that the teen wouldn't make if they hadn't been drinking.

Let's take a look at some warning signs of alcohol abuse:

Sudden change in friends
Spending free time with people that have known substance abuse problems
Stealing, lying, repeated "run-ins" with the law
Missing school or other appointments on a regular basis
Involvement in a car accident
Substantial drop in grades or other performance related activities
Showing warning signs of drug use
Showing symptoms of depression
Increase in violent outbursts or violent activities

If you think, or know, that a teenager you love needs alcohol abuse treatment, you may want to consider an alcohol treatment center for teens. Alcohol treatment centers that are designed specifically for teenagers or adolescents have added focus and features that you wouldn't find with a traditional alcohol treatment center. Some additional things you may find at an adolescent alcohol treatment center include specialized counselors that have experience with teenagers and teen issues, educational classes or support to help them get back on track with their schooling, and additional recreational activities to help teach teens about other ways of feeling good about themselves.

Getting teenage alcohol abuse treatment is essential. The longer a teen abuses alcohol the more long term health and psychological affects they are likely to experience. Using alcohol on a regular basis greatly increases the chance that a teen will be involved in violent activities such as dating violence, teenage bullying, or even gang involvement. Don't wait, get help for teenage alcohol abuse today.