Navigating College: Embracing Self-Discovery While Rejecting Harmful Hazing
College is considered a transformative phase in a young adult’s life. It offers a chance to step into a new world, explore fresh horizons, and, more importantly, discover oneself. However, recent years have seen a dangerous increase in hazing rituals within certain fraternities and sororities on campuses nationwide. As the rush season approaches, addressing concerns and highlighting the importance of refusing unsafe initiation practices is essential. The Quest for Self-Discovery College can be a thrilling journey into self-discovery. It’s an opportunity to break away from the expectations and limitations of the past and embrace new perspectives. College campuses are a …
Understanding the Risks of the Hepatitis Virus and Effective Prevention Methods
The hepatitis virus causes inflammation of the liver. There are different types of viruses, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E, each with its modes of transmission and varying degrees of severity. One of the most alarming aspects of the hepatitis virus is that it often remains asymptomatic, particularly in its early stages. Being asymptomatic means infected individuals may have no signs or symptoms of the disease and unknowingly spread the virus to others, leading to a higher occurrence and increased risk of complications. Understanding the Risks Several factors contribute to the transmission of hepatitis viruses. It is essential …
June is PTSD Awareness Month
June is PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the impact of this mental health condition. PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as combat, violence, accidents, or natural disasters. It is important to recognize that individuals with PTSD often face additional challenges, including substance abuse. The intersection between PTSD and substance abuse can be difficult to navigate. It sometimes requires the support of loved ones to get through it. Understanding the Connection. PTSD and substance abuse often coexist, forming a complex and challenging cycle. The connection between the …
Mental Health & Your Surroundings
Look Around, Look Within: Your surroundings reveal much about your mental health. Take a moment to consider your surroundings. Do you feel safe? Do you have access to health care and grocery stores? Does your home support you, both physically and mentally? This Mental Health Month, challenge yourself to look at your world and how different factors can affect your mental health. Where a person is born, lives, learns, works, plays, and gathers, as well as their economic stability and social connections, are part of the “social determinants of health” (SDOH). The more these factors work in your favor, means …
April is Alcohol Awareness Month
April is Alcohol Awareness Month, an annual observance that aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with alcohol use and to promote alcohol-free living. It’s important to acknowledge the impact that alcohol can have on mental health and well-being. Alcohol and Mental Health: The Connection While alcohol is often associated with socialization and relaxation, it can also negatively affect mental health. Alcohol is a depressant. It can disrupt the delicate balance of chemicals in the brain that regulate mood and emotions. The imbalance can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. People who struggle with …
Safe Sex Awareness Month
September is Sexual Health Awareness Month or Safe Sex Awareness Month, and we are getting you ready for it. The annual observance promotes responsible sexual behavior and encourages individuals to practice safe sex. The awareness month aims to educate people about the risks of unprotected sex and the importance of using protection to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. This article will discuss the significance of safe sex awareness, the importance of safe sex practices, and different ways to prevent STIs. The Significance of Safe Sex Awareness Month Safe Sex Awareness Month is a time to encourage young adults to …
5 Ways to Love Your Body for Self-Love Month
Self-love, self-care, and reparenting are buzzwords these days, but it’s because they really matter. You might even think of it like a gift of awareness that our parents and their parents’ generations did not have as much access to, so let’s take advantage of this opportunity! Love your body for Self-Love Month. Self-love is all about appreciating yourself, knowing your worth, and treating yourself in accordance with your intrinsic value. Imagine meeting your hero – how would you treat them? How would you speak to them? Why not shower that same special treatment and praise upon yourself? The better we treat …
Addressing Trauma
It’s okay not to be okay. It’s possible to be affected by trauma even if you haven’t experienced something you would define as traumatic. Trauma can be challenging to identify. It’s important to remember that trauma can take many forms and doesn’t always result from a physical event. Recognize your feelings and seek help when needed. Seeking help is a sign of strength, so don’t be afraid to reach out for support. This blog will explore the links between trauma and mental health and how you can recognize when you might need help. What is Trauma? Trauma can be defined …
Celebrating World AIDS Day
TBYS wants to pause and recognize World AIDS Day, celebrated worldwide on December 1. The observance was founded in 1988, and according to the United Nations, it has become one of the most recognized international health days. World AIDS Day’s goal is to raise awareness, commemorate those who have passed, and celebrate victories such as increased access to treatment and prevention services. This year’s theme was “equalize.” The theme was meant to be a call to action to actively address the inequalities that are obstructing the end of the AIDS epidemic. The 2022 World AIDS Day report by UNAIDS focused …