A Positive Approach to Teen Health

03/27/2026

Rebuilding the connection with your teen… one week at a time!

Does the thought of rebuilding connection with your teen catch your attention? If you have ever asked them, “How was your day?” and gotten a “fine,” you are definitely not alone.

The truth is, most teens do want to talk. However, this is only when they feel safe, not judged. As Mark Gregston states, “Getting teens to open up doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience, intentionality, and a willingness to change the way you engage” (Gregston, 2026).

Over the next several weeks, we will be referring to a great article, as we share tips on how to help your teen open up. What works, what doesn’t, and the small shifts that actually make a big difference.

Stay tuned for our Parent Friday series, live each Friday beginning in April!

“When Your Teen Won’t Open Up,” by Mark Gregston, Parenting Today’s Teens, March 9, 2026.

03/26/2026

Oftentimes, when we hear of a conflict in a relationship, we are quick to assume that disrespect or dysfunction is present. However, did you know that not all conflict is unhealthy? Rather, there are healthy versus unhealthy conflicts in a relationship.

According to Dr. Tara Vossenkemper (2024), “Not every argument is a sign of an unhealthy relationship.” Healthy conflicts are more of a conversation, rather than a fight. Vossenkemper (2024) identifies several signs of healthy conflict, including:

-A difference in opinion doesn’t lead to feeling hurt.
-Arguments are about the problem instead of personal attacks on a partner.
-Both people feel comfortable and safe expressing themselves.
-Disagreements end with understanding and resolution.
-Partners are actively listening, not just waiting for the other person to finish talking.
-There is accountability, apologies, and forgiveness.

Visit the link below for more information, as well as strategies for engaging in healthy conflict, such as listening to understand.

Reference:
Vossenkemper, T. “How Often Do Couples Fight in a Healthy Relationship?” The Counseling Hub, 9 June 2024, https://thecounselinghub.com/news/how-often-do-couples-fight-in-a-healthy-relationship.

03/25/2026

Happy Wellness Wednesday!

Did you know that healthy marriages are often built on the small, consistent things we do every day. What does that mean to you? Here is a quick midweek reflection for you!

What can make the biggest difference in a relationship?

A) Open and honest communication
B) Quality time, with limited distractions
C) Emotional support
D) Shared goals and values

Share your vote in the comments!

(Hint: There isn’t one “correct” answer.. healthy marriages rely on all of these elements working together!)

03/24/2026

Be sure to LIKE, SHARE and TAG A FRIEND on this post by this Friday for your chance to win this giveaway! ✨We’d love to see you there!

03/24/2026

Last week to enter! Register today ✨

03/24/2026

Did you know that one of the six core values of social work is the Importance of Human Relationships?

Strong relationships create safe spaces for healing, growth, and resilience.

This month, we celebrate the dedicated social workers who foster these connections every day, supporting individuals, families, and communities.

This month and always, thank you for all that you do!

03/23/2026

03/23/2026

For this week’s Motivational Monday, remind yourself: it takes courage to be kind and kindness can change everything!

In relation to National Social Work Month, social workers remind us that showing compassion is not a weakness, it is the ultimate strength. Always remember, your kindness can be the turning point in someone’s life.

Tag a social worker who shows kindness every day!

03/20/2026

Happy first day of spring, the season of growth!

This a perfect time to reflect on our own personal development, as strong relationships are built by individuals who are committed to growing themselves first.

What are your favorite tips for personal growth?

03/19/2026

Did you know that 72% of teens have used AI companions, and 1 in 5 has had a romantic-type relationship with a chatbot?

This video explores what is happening, check it out here.

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

03/18/2026

With spring just around the corner, you and your students may start feeling the pressure (and I'm not
just talking about your sinuses! Anyone else allergic to all the blooms?). Spring often brings
conversations about future plans, exams, projects, and deadlines. You can help students navigate this
stressful time with these three evidence-based strategies:
• 1. Normalize and Reframe Stress: Teach students that stress is a natural response. Research
shows that viewing stress as helpful improves performance and resilience. Help students see
anxiety before exams as their brain preparing to focus.
• 2. Break Big Tasks into Small Steps: Overwhelm decreases when tasks feel manageable. Guide
students to chunk projects into clear, specific action steps and focus on the next small move.
• 3. Build in Regulation Resets: Even 2–5 minutes of breathing, movement, or quiet reflection
lowers stress hormones and improves focus. Short resets strengthen emotional regulation over
time.
Save or share this with a colleague who could use a little spring support in their classroom!

03/17/2026

It was a pleasure meeting with Todd Young at Capital Hill Day. We are grateful for his continued support of youth and mentoring programs in our community.