Educational Reads
to Inspire Change

Learn more about substance use disorder and what it takes to start a life of recovery.

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Woman smiling and raising her hands because she learned the truth surrounding myths about alcohol & underage drinking.

Dispelling 12 Common Myths About Alcohol & Underage Drinking

There are many common myths about alcohol & underage drinking, often leading to misconceptions about safety and risks. It’s crucial to separate fact from fiction to ensure the well-being of teens. This article will debunk 12 common myths about alcohol & underage drinking, providing clear, factual information to help teens

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Teens helping someone being peer pressured

The Bystander Effect: How to Help Someone Being Peer Pressured

Peer pressure is a common challenge for teenagers, often leading to risky behaviors and negatively impacting their mental and emotional well-being. Understanding the bystander effect and knowing how to help someone being peer-pressured is crucial. Feeling overwhelmed? Talk it out with someone who gets it. Text 510-256-9420 and we’ll get

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Kids legs with rollerblades at a skatepark.

Role-Playing Scenarios: How to Say No When You Feel Pressured

Learning how to say “no” is a crucial skill for teenagers, especially when facing peer pressure to engage in harmful behaviors like vaping, smoking, drinking, and having unprotected sex. Developing this skill not only helps maintain their health but also builds confidence and self-respect. Read on for tips on using

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a teenage girl with dark hair.

How to Avoid Risky Situations: Tips for Teens

It’s natural for teens to want and seek out new experiences as they grow and develop. This is a crucial part of their journey toward independence and self-discovery. However, not all experiences are safe, and parents need to encourage safe risk-taking while supporting their teens as they expand their levels

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Two teens hugging.

12 Ways to Set Healthy Boundaries with Friends

Setting healthy boundaries with friends is crucial for maintaining respectful and fulfilling relationships. Boundaries help protect your well-being, ensure mutual respect, and prevent misunderstandings. Whether it’s managing your time, personal space, private information, or expressing your needs, boundary setting creates a foundation of trust and support in friendships. Feeling overwhelmed?

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Teens walking together smiling and showing support.

How To Handle Peer Pressure as a Teenager

Peer pressure can be subtle and often is. It plays on a teenager’s desire to fit in and be “normal.” As teenagers, the influence of peers is significant and can impact decisions and behaviors. Understanding how to recognize and handle peer pressure is crucial for maintaining personal integrity and making

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Breaking Down Stigma: What It Means for Addiction

SASI measures stigma and attitudes related to substance use. It includes perceptions of those with SUDs and aims to hold the nation accountable while tracking progress in eliminating stigma. The Shatterproof Addiction Stigma Index (SASI) report, done in collaboration with The Hartford in 2021, provides important insights and learnings about

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How Can Mental Health Triage Lead to Mental Wellness?

What Is Mental Health? The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes that mental health has several components. These include emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Mental health triage can help those struggling with mental health symptoms.1 Each of these factors affects our reactions to day-to-day stressors. For example, difficulties with

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Is Marijuana Addictive?

What Is Marijuana? Marijuana, also known as weed or cannabis, is one of the most used federally illegal drugs. Research has shown that approximately 48.2 million people, or 18% of America’s population, smoked it at least once in 2019, and 3 in 10 people who use cannabis have a marijuana use

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What is a Detoxification Program?

What is a detoxification program? Detoxification programs aim to rid the body of drugs or other substances. These programs involve a range of different treatment methods. These may include medical supervision, counseling, and support groups.  Detox is typically the first step in the recovery process. They help individuals manage withdrawal symptoms

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Understanding the Risk of Social Media Addiction

What Is Social Media? In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, connecting us with friends, family, and the world. However, there are growing concerns about its impact on mental health. In fact, excessive use of social media can lead to social media addiction.

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