Epigenetics is a new and groundbreaking concept in the field of psychology and mental health. Research is revealing that our genes can actually turn on or turn off in response to what happens in our life and how our environment affects us.This understanding has finally put to bed the age-old debate regarding nature vs. nurture—in other words, whether who we are is determined by our ...

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and Tuesday, September 10, is World Suicide Prevention Day. And this year, it comes on the heels of new research showing that more adolescents and young adults are dying by suicide than ever before. Released in June, the new analysis of teen suicide statistics shows that the youth suicide rate in the United States is currently the highest ...

Acute stress disorder is a response to a traumatic event. Teens who experience a school shooting, natural disaster, death, car accident or other traumatic event are at risk for acute stress disorder. In fact, up to one-third of people who experience a traumatic event develop acute stress disorder, according to the US Department of Veterans Affairs.Acute stress disorder (ASD) typically ...

Morris County, New Jersey, is a wealthy community with a high median household income. Yet residents face substantial challenges related to teen mental health access and substance abuse.In particular, Morris County youth too often go without treatment for major depression. In addition, the county — and the state as a whole — faces an ongoing influx of heroin and fentanyl, resulting in ...

It’s hard to say goodbye to summer. Heading back into the school routine can create more stress for everyone in the family. Busy schedules, academic pressure, and lack of sleep can raise anxiety levels. Furthermore, we have less time to relax and connect with each other. With that in mind, here are some strategies to ease the transition back into the school year.Build the family’s ...

Daniel J. Siegel, MD has a unique ability to make complicated scientific concepts accessible and easy to apply in everyday life. He has shared his insights on the brain, mindful parenting, and child development with groups ranging from mental health professionals, parents, and neuroscientists to policymakers, judges, Pope John Paul II, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama.Dr. Siegel received ...

World Mental Health Day on October 10 is designed to bring awareness to mental health, help reduce stigma around mental health challenges, and provide education on treatment options. Information and support is vital for families in light of the current teen and young adult mental health crisis.Today, one in five teens has a diagnosable mental health disorder, such as depression or ...

Social media has both an upside and a downside for teenagers. In the pro column, platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat can be lifesavers for teens who feel isolated or marginalized—including LGBTQ+ teens and those struggling with mental health issues. Research shows positive effects of social media on friendships.But there are also plenty of cons associated with ...

Every year, well-intentioned people make resolutions as New Year’s Eve approaches…and end up failing to achieve them. According to Psychology Today, 80 percent of people who set New Year goals abandon them. That’s because making behavioral changes is one of the toughest things a person can do. Breaking old patterns and creating new, healthy habits take time and dedication.This year, why ...