Sleepy Teens

A December 2014 study confirms that texting, gaming or Internet chatting at night disrupts adolescent sleeping.   More than half of kids have trouble falling asleep according to earlier studies because electronic habits are highly stimulating.  These kids were more likely to suffer from insomnia and anxiety and depressive disorders.  This latest finding from Brigham and Women’s …

College student dies after trying Ecstasy

Ecstasy is a popular recreational drug used by teens and young adults.  Sadly, a Texas State student died in Austin after trying it for the first time.  Her friends are urging others to never try drugs.  They say she was not a drug abuser and want everyone to know that it just takes one time.

Kids should move to boost their brains

It’s not a new concept that physical activity improves cognitive functioning.  But one of the most ambitious studies of physical activity and cognitive performance in children was published in the September issue of Pediatrics.  Researchers at the University of Illinois recruited 220 public school students for a year long study.  Half were used as a …

Are your kids sleepy this week?

The American Academy of Pediatrics in a new report is encouraging middle and high schools to push back start times.  Students in later starting schools have less daytime sleepiness, fewer tardies, fewer attention difficulties and better school performance compared to students in early-starting schools.  Thankfully, as my daughter starts middle school she begins at 8:30 which …

Robin William’s suicide shines spotlight on mental health

The tragic and shocking death of beloved comic and actor Robin Williams has slammed us with mental health media attention. If a man such as Robin Williams could quietly suffer so desperately with Depression and addiction we should be more vigilant and aware; encouraging and affirming those who need treatment.  Mental health awareness needs to stay on the societal …