LEAF Blog

Children and teens face tough stuff everyday—from going to school to keeping up with friends to managing stress in our fast-paced world, all within the limits of a developing brain and body.

A traumatic event only adds to a child’s cognitive and emotional load.

November is a month dedicated to childhood grief awareness. While it’s not something we like to picture, approximately six million children will experience the death of a parent or sibling by the time the child turns eighteen (source: Judi’s House).

Children and teens are especially in need of support during these difficult times. A child’s grief can sometimes be overlooked during a crisis—or well-meaning adults may shield the child from the reality of death.

According to Harvard, children need just one stable relationship with a trusted adult to develop resilience.

The death of a loved one is tough for anyone at any age—but children are especially affected.

When a child experiences a death for the first time, they’ll be looking to the big people around them to figure out how to process grief.

Children who don’t receive reassurance and care during bereavement can be at risk for future complications, such as depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicide.

Supporting a child during this time can help support a healthy future.

Have you heard the term “sober curious?” Originally the title of a 2018 book by Ruby Warrington, sober curious has become a larger movement that encourages people to reevaluate their relationship with alcohol and adopt a more mindful approach to drinking. Alcohol can be one of the ways you demonstrate you belong in a social circle, but the sober curious question the cultural forces that encourage drinking alcohol. They consider the benefits of reducing or stopping drinking to your sleep, health, focus, finances, and productivity. The sober curious may still drink alcohol but are open to exploring other options.

Fall creates stunning scenery, with the leaves changing color on the trees, morning mist, dramatic skies, and long shadows in the sunshine. Why not take a lead from nature’s beautiful changes to reflect on what you could change to improve your life and well-being? We’ve put together some fall self-care tips to help you reduce stress and feel great.

Halloween is an enjoyable time of year for kids and adults alike. It’s fun to dress up, visit haunted houses and escape rooms, go on a local ghost tour, or party with friends. Traditionally, we focus on dangers for Trick-or-Treating kids, such as flammable costumes, walking in the dark, or overeating candy! However, there are also dangers for adults who enjoy the fun of dressing up and celebrating. Read on to review some important safety tips for Halloween.