A group of teenagers in Brooklyn, New York made headlines recently for starting something called the “Luddite Club.” They meet and hang out once a week, ditching their phones for reading, creative pastimes and conversation. Some members have opted for flip phones or gotten rid of their phones altogether. Avoiding social media is also one of their goals. As they mention in the article, these platforms are the opposite of “real life,” and making true connections is more important than ever.

It’s likely that these inspiring Luddite teens aren’t alone. Now that some young people are pushing back against social media, others may follow in their footsteps. It seems like a sign of hope for a generation struggling with severe mental health struggles. 

Why are Young People Pushing Back Against Social Media?

According to a 2019 survey, most kids today acquire their first phone by the time they’re 11-12 years old. Millennials and Gen Zers have grown up with this technology and witnessed its negative effects. They’ve watched their parents become consumed by it. They’ve watched their friends become obsessed with developing an online identity that garners likes. They’ve recognized how addictive and damaging it is. As a result, they’ve experienced worsening mental health and crippling loneliness.

Kids are coming to realize that in spending more time on their phones, they’re sacrificing the joys of real life. Among those joys are human connection, support, and love, as well as involvement in fulfilling activities. By pushing back against social media, Luddite teens report feeling more focused, alert and engaged with everyday life.

Why Teens are Forced to Lead the Way

You might be asking yourself why teens are being forced to take the first steps against social media. In a world where technology has become a necessity, teens haven’t had much of a say in the matter. Big tech companies have made these platforms as addictive as possible to ensure that users keep consuming content. Social media has become a part of youth culture, too, and some kids fear “missing out” by going dark.

As unfortunate as it is, we often have to be our own advocate. Technology isn’t going to disappear overnight. Pushing back against social media however, allow teens to experience real fulfillment. The happier the kids feel away from their screens, the more likely it is that they will enact widespread change. Then, maybe the adults will listen and learn from their experience as well. 

How to Join the Movement and Limit Your Screentime

We’re told that we need social media to connect and engage. We also need our phones to keep up with e-mails, get directions, stream music and request Uber rides. Some of us may need phones because our employers require it. In this situation, it can feel impossible to eliminate social media and limit screen time.

Here are 3 ways you can get started:

1. Wean yourself off a little bit at a time. If going cold turkey works best for you, go for it! For most of us, though, smaller steps ensure better results. Start by eliminating screen time 1-2 hours before bed. If you rely on your phone to wake up in the morning, invest in an alarm clock to avoid using your phone early in the day.
2. Start by deleting 1 social media app. Maybe your job requires you to have access to Facebook. If that’s the case, start by deleting Instagram. If you rely on Instagram to connect with distant relatives, start by deleting TikTok or Facebook. Whatever you do, try not to return to the app. Pushing back against social media requires some commitment. The first few weeks may be difficult, but eventually you’ll replace the habit with something else.
3. Schedule activities outside of screen time. You should look forward to the things you do in your free time. That way, time spent on your phone will seem boring in comparison. Make a list of things you love and schedule some time for those things. And leave your phone at the door!

Our Staff at Lead4Life, Inc. Can Help

At Lead4Life, we strive to empower every participant in our programs so that they may find their purpose, achieve their goals, and become poised, productive members of their community. We advocate for those in need and assist each and every individual by providing compassionate education and valuable resources like mental health tips so that they can make the very best decisions and develop important life, social, and competency skills. Visit our website or contact us at 240-499-8949 to learn more about pushing back against social media.

During challenging times, it can be difficult to express our feelings and share them with others. Processing complex emotions isn’t a simple thing to do, and sometimes we require a language that moves beyond words. While art therapy wasn’t established until the 20^th century, art is something human beings have practiced for centuries. It has been used to tell stories, record historical events and communicate ideas. Throughout history, art has also provided a way for us to manage grief, trauma, and hardship. Evidence suggests that artists like Vincent Van Gogh and Frida Kahlo, for example, used art to relieve psychological pain. However, you don’t need to be a famous artist to reap the benefits of art therapy.

Today, most of us are facing many stressors at one time. You might be looking for relief from stress at work, financial troubles, or the loss of a loved one after the pandemic. Perhaps you’re a cancer patient or a veteran struggling with PTSD. Medication and traditional methods of therapy are helpful, but some find success with supplementary tools.

The benefits of art therapy may appeal to you if you are looking for something new to try. The question is, is it effective? The short answer is yes. Research suggests that art therapy alleviates anxiety, depression, PTSD and other mental health conditions. It also helps individuals manage pain and reduce all kinds of suffering.

What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy treats mental health disorders and emotional distress through the use of creative expression. While working with a trained art therapist is an option, you can also try art therapy on your own at home. The type of media you work with is up to you, but common options include painting, drawing, collaging, sculpting, composing music, dancing, and writing. You can also participate in group art therapy, which is a great way to connect with others and work together towards a collective goal.

The act of making art gives people the opportunity to escape harmful thinking and work with their hands. At the same time, creating art helps us to unite mind, body, and spirit. Creation is rewarding; it allows us to make something that didn’t exist before. It’s also a highly enjoyable and relaxing pastime. This is why art therapy is such a positive, uplifting experience for participants.

How Can Art Therapy Improve Your Mental Health?

• Relieve stress and let go of overwhelming emotions. Working on a piece of art allows you to get some distance from stressful feelings. When you are overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious, art therapy can bring a sense of calm to your life.
• Uncover feelings you didn’t know you had. Once as your hands start moving, you might be surprised by what they produce. Practicing art can be spontaneous, and it allows subconscious feelings to roam free. You may learn more about yourself and find new meaning in life by trying art therapy.
• Achieve a goal. With art therapy, you get to walk away with something tangible that you created. The feeling of accomplishment you get after creating something beautiful is incredibly fulfilling, whether it’s a painting, a completed journal, or a dance routine.

Who Can Benefit from Art Therapy?

Anyone can benefit from art therapy, and it doesn’t require artistic skill or previous experience. There are many people who say “I can’t draw,” or “I’m not artistic,” but art therapy isn’t about ability. Instead, it’s focused on art-making as a healing process. Using a creative outlet as a means of communicating your emotions is the goal of the practice. Additionally, people of all ages can take part in the experience.

Learn More about Our Therapy Programs at Lead4Life, Inc.

At Lead4Life, we strive to empower every participant in our programs so that they may find their purpose, achieve their goals, and become poised, productive members of their community. We advocate for those in need and assist each and every individual by providing compassionate education and valuable resources like mental health tips so that they can make the very best decisions and develop important life, social, and competency skills. Visit our website or contact us at 240-499-8949 for more information.

It’s natural to make mistakes when we’re young. In our youth, emotions run high, peer pressure is prevalent, and we’re learning that our actions have consequences. However, some mistakes have far-reaching consequences. In 2020, youth accounted for 1 in 14 arrests for violent crimes. Thankfully, this number is declining, but many young people still commit crimes that put their futures (and that of others) at risk.

Let’s say that some friends pressured you into stealing some items at a convenience store. Maybe you knew it was wrong, but you wanted to impress your friends or prove that you belonged in their group. Of course, you probably had to face some harsh consequences as a result. It’s likely that your parents were disappointed in your behavior at the least. If you were caught and charged with a crime, your snap decision might have come a much greater cost.

At Lead4Life, we believe first-time offenders deserve a second chance. Additionally, we make it our mission to help young people learn from their mistakes and build a positive future for themselves. That’s why we offer an exceptional victim awareness program for participants between the ages of 10 and 20.

What Exactly Are Victim Awareness Programs?

A victim awareness program is a service designed to provide first-time offenders of crime with resources, education and support. At Lead4Life, individuals who take part in our VA programs have access to a safe, judgement-free space that allows them to receive the help they need. Through victim awareness programs, participants also learn about the effect their crime had on others. By taking responsibility for their actions, they learn to move forward in a positive direction.

What Do They Accomplish?

• Teaching accountability. Young offenders are taught to speak freely about their crime and its consequences. Through open conversations with a trusted specialist, individuals learn that blaming others doesn’t help. Even if your friends pressured you to steal something, for instance, you still made the decision to participate. In this situation, it’s important to face the consequences and accept your role in the crime.

• Developing empathy. First-time offenders often don’t think about how their crime affected others. The threat of punishment is usually the first thing on someone’s mind.  Will they have to enter the juvenile justice system? Will this affect the rest of their life? Victim awareness programs teach first-time offenders to recalibrate their perspective. When they put themselves in the shoes of their victim(s), they learn to develop empathy and understanding. How did they make that person feel? How was the victim’s life affected?

• Learning about the impacts of crime. Let’s go back to our group of friends who engaged in theft at a local convenience store. At the time, the young offenders were probably caught up in the moment. They may have even felt thrilled to do something that felt dangerous or forbidden. However, they probably weren’t thinking about the owner of the store, a struggling business owner who has four children to feed. They’ll not only have to pay for those stolen goods, but they may be fearful of future attacks. During victim awareness programs, offenders learn about the impact of their crimes and how harmful their actions were to others.

• Making amends. Finally, victim awareness programs give offenders the chance to make amends with their community. Once as a first-time offender understands the effects of their crime, they often seek forgiveness. This might involve speaking with a victim if the other party is open to it. While offenders must still face the consequences, they can move forward knowing that there is always the possibility of a second chance. In many cases, victims are also appreciative when offenders apologize and attempt to right their wrongs.

Sign Up for Our Victim Awareness Program at Lead4Life, Inc.

At Lead4Life, we strive to empower every participant in our programs so that they may find their purpose, achieve their goals, and become poised, productive members of their community. We advocate for those in need and assist each and every individual by providing compassionate education and valuable resources like mental health tips so that they can make the very best decisions and develop important life, social, and competency skills. Visit our website or contact us at 240-499-8949 for more information about our victim awareness program.

Many LGBTQ individuals have access to accepting communities, support systems and public representation today. However, there is still much work to be done, especially when it comes to issues affecting LGBTQ adults and youth. According to The Trevor Project, LGBTQ youth are over four times more likely to attempt suicide than their peers. 45% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered making a suicide attempt during the past year. In early 2022, the U.S. Census Bureau indicated that LGBT adults 18 and older report twice the rate of mental health challenges compared to non-LGBT adults. These statistics are staggering, but they also encourage active awareness. When we know and understand the problems LGBTQ adults and youth face, we can work to solve them.

The Struggles LGBTQ Adults and Youth Face

Social Isolation and Rejection

Everyone wants to feel accepted by their loved ones and the community at large. We want to feel like we belong, and that we can be exactly who we are without shame. LGBTQ adults and youth often come out and share their sexual orientation/gender identity with others. This can be especially daunting if they’ve already experienced feelings of shame or rejection previously. Many peers accept and encourage their LGBTQ friends, letting them know that they’re supported and loved. Coming out in an unsupportive or hostile environment, however, can be dangerous. Even in our modern society, heterosexuality and binary experiences are viewed as “the norm,” whereas LGBTQ individuals are perceived as something “other.” Furthermore, Unfortunately, this can result in increased social isolation and rejection. This can lead to heightened mental health risks over time.

Discrimination

If you’re not a part of the LGBTQ community or another marginalized group, you probably have access to stable employment, reliable health care and acceptance in religious communities. LGBTQ adults and youth are often barred from certain experiences just for being themselves. In a survey conducted by CMI, 97% of gay and bi men and 99% of lesbians reported that discrimination was their top concern while traveling. 21% of trans travelers said they were nervous about invasive security checks and discrimination while traveling. Traveling is an everyday experience that many take for granted or don’t think twice about. It is not uncommon for LGBT adults and youth, on the other hand, to feel the burden of even the smallest daily tasks.

Harassment and Violence

LGBT adults and youth are often threatened physically due to their identity. A staggering 70% of LGBTQIA+ members have reported being sexually harassed at work. 66% were afraid to say anything or report the abuse. Having a constant fear of violence (whether it is sexual, physical or verbal) can lead to increased anxiety and feelings of hopelessness. In many cases, those who antagonize LGBTQ individuals are championed by their peers. Laughing at anti-LGBTQ jokes or remaining silent when someone is harassed only contributes to violence. As Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.” Supporting LGBT adults and youth involves refusing to participate in jokes like these and making your voice heard.

Partner with Lead4Life, Inc. Today to Learn More about The Struggles LGBTQ Adults and Youth Face

At Lead4Life, we strive to empower every participant in our programs so that they may find their purpose, achieve their goals, and become poised, productive members of their community. We advocate for those in need and assist every individual by providing compassionate education and valuable resources like mental health tips so that they can make the very best decisions and develop important life, social, and competency skills. Visit our website to learn more about the struggles of LGBTQ adults and youth or contact us at 240-499-8949.

Depression is not just a bad day or a phase in a young person’s life. It is a chronic illness that requires compassion, close attention, and professional treatment. Unfortunately, depression in teens is sometimes dismissed or ignored. Many parents make the mistake of viewing their child’s symptoms as a normal part of the teenage experience. They may believe their teen will “grow out of it” over time. It is important to note, however, that depression does not go away by itself if left untreated. It can also greatly impact a teen’s overall quality of life. According to a recent study from Mental Health America (MHA), over 2.5 million young people in the U.S. suffer from severe depression. The rates of substance use in youth are also steadily increasing.

You may be wondering what you can do if the young person in your life is struggling. First and foremost, it’s crucial to be informed. While depression in teens can be crippling, it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few essential things you should know.

Depression in Teens: What You Should Know

Teenagers Are Often Suffering from Two Mental Illnesses at the Same Time

According to the CDC, having another mental disorder is most common in children with depression. 3 in 4 children aged 3-17, for instance, also experience anxiety 73% of the time. As your child may need treatment for multiple conditions, it’s important to pay close attention to all of their symptoms. However, this statistic is also valuable in another way. Depression in teens can be incredibly isolating and solitary, and it’s much scarier when combined with other illnesses. Letting your child know they aren’t alone may bring them some comfort. Additionally, this can help them feel less peculiar, so they are more comfortable opening up and confiding in someone.

Girls, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC Youth are More Likely to Experience Depression

Any young person can experience depression. However, it’s a known fact that certain individuals are more at-risk than others. Being a teenager is a complicated and stressful experience on its own, but some teens have additional struggles to contend with. Young girls exposed to social media, for example, may feel that their appearance isn’t up to these false, impossible-to-reach standards. A teen struggling with their sexual or gender identity might be struggling to feel accepted in their conservative household. Multiracial individuals, who are at the highest risk for depression in teens, may be forced to confront racism and bigotry on a daily basis. If the young person in your life is at a higher risk for depression, check in with them often. Make sure they know they have someone they can confide in, someone who will support them no matter what.

Few Teens Receive Treatment for Depression

Only 1 in 3 youth with severe depression receive regular mental health care. This means that many teens don’t feel comfortable sharing their struggles with others or discussing their depression. It also means that they don’t have access to the care and attention they deserve. Unfortunately, there is still a stigma surrounding mental illness, and teens may be afraid to speak out. Perhaps they’ve tried, but the individual they spoke with was not receptive or the resources simply weren’t there. This is why it’s so crucial for parents, guardians, and youth mentors to communicate with the young people closest to them. To receive treatment, teens have to feel comfortable enough to ask for help. Having one supportive person who can assist a teen in finding treatment makes all the difference in the world.

Partner with Lead4Life, Inc. Today to Learn More about Depression in Teens

At Lead4Life, we strive to empower every participant in our programs so that they may find their purpose, achieve their goals, and become poised, productive members of their community. We advocate for those in need and assist each and every individual by providing compassionate education and valuable resources like mental health tips so that they can make the very best decisions and develop important life, social, and competency skills. Visit our website for more information about depression in teens or contact us at 240-499-8949.