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Talking to Kids About Natural Disasters (The Weather Channel)

Over the past month, the devastation of hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria has topped the headlines and media outlets. The earthquake in Mexico has shocked the world. These events have shaken countless individuals, families, and communities, including our children.

Older Not Wiser: Senior High School Drivers Take More Risks Than Younger Teens According to New Study

Back to school.

For seniors, it’s often a stressful time as they prepare for a new era in life after high school, but also one of enthusiasm as they feel a greater sense of confidence and autonomy.

It’s also a time parents worry more – about their teens’ future and about risky behaviors.

More Kids Are Receiving Mental Health Care, But…

At The Clay Center, we find ourselves writing often about how seeking psychiatric treatment is stigmatized in the United States.  We especially worry about this issue when it comes to children and adolescents.

What Their Writing Told Me: The Taboo Of Mental Illness In The Hispanic Community

The following blog is part of The Clay Center’s series on diversity, which presents varying cultural perspectives and beliefs on mental health and well-being.

When Kids Leave Home: Part 1

This is the first blog post in a two-part series on adolescents’ transition to the “real world.”

To view the second blog post, click here. 

Intro music written and performed by Dr. Gene Beresin.
Outro music arranged and performed by Dr. Gene Beresin.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Primer

Post-traumatic stress disorder.

Even the term is a mouthful.

We often shorten the diagnosis to its initials—PTSD—but even that linguistic short-cut doesn’t take away from the fact that this is a deceptively complicated syndrome.

Have The Rules Changed For Our Kids And Concert Going?

The bomb attack at the Ariana Grande concert in England evokes a toxic milieu of fear, anger and, worst of all, a kind of insidious fatigue.

For Those Suffering From Addiction, Recovery Is The Most Likely Outcome—But How Do We Get There From Here?

Intro music written and performed by Dr. Gene Beresin.
Outro music arranged and performed by Dr. Gene Beresin.

NOTE: In light of the landmark substance abuse and recovery legislation that was passed today by the Massachusetts Legislature, this blog and podcast couldn’t be any more pertinent.

John Oliver On Mental Health

In the clip above from Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, Oliver masterfully speaks to the serious misunderstandings and poor care associated with mental illness in the U.S. today.

Are Parents Good Role Models for Teen Drivers?

Parents. Is this scenario familiar?

You’re driving the kids home from school. As always, there’s plenty to do, plenty on your mind. Maybe you’re upset because your boss is making some stupid demand that you need to review.