Behavior Health and Wellness Blog

Surrounding Awareness

26 Quotes About Letting Go

When life feels overwhelming or your heart is burdened with grief, a well-chosen inspirational quote can act as a powerful grounding force. Though often overlooked, quotes have the ability to gently interrupt toxic thought spirals and offer perspective during life’s most difficult moments. Mental health professionals like Jessi Gholami, LCSW, emphasize that these are not empty slogans, but concentrated moments of clarity that offer comfort, affirmation, and even healing. Dr.

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What to Say to Someone Who Is Depressed

When someone we love is struggling with depression, it’s normal to feel unsure about what to say—but silence or distance can unintentionally deepen their pain. Offering gentle words like “I care” or “I’m here for you” may seem small, but to someone feeling isolated, they are lifelines. Empathy doesn’t require perfect phrases—just honest presence. Listening without judgment, checking in regularly, or offering specific support like help with chores or a

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Risk and Protective Factors

Preventing youth violence begins with understanding that no single cause leads a young person to commit or experience violence. Instead, it’s a mix of individual, relationship, community, and societal influences. Risk factors—such as exposure to violence at home, poor academic performance, or associating with delinquent peers—can increase the chances of violent behavior. On the other hand, protective factors—like strong family connections, high academic achievement, or community involvement—can reduce those risks.

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Cigars Are a Public Health Problem

Cigars—once seen as a niche luxury—are now aggressively marketed to youth, women, and communities of color through flavored products, low prices, and targeted advertising. The tobacco industry has designed and promoted cigars using flavors like cherry and vanilla to mask harsh tobacco, making them appealing to first-time users. From 2009 to 2020, cigar sales rose from $2.47 billion to $3.27 billion, largely due to flavored options. Alarmingly, over half of

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