What Is Major Depressive Disorder?
Depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a serious mood disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions in daily life. Unlike occasional sadness, depression is persistent and can lead to emotional, physical, and cognitive challenges, impacting work, relationships, and overall well-being. Symptoms include persistent feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest […]
About School Violence
School violence is a serious issue that disrupts learning, affects student well-being, and impacts entire communities. It includes acts such as bullying, fighting, weapon use, gang violence, and sexual violence, all of which contribute to an unsafe environment for students. According to the CDC, nearly one in five high school students reported being bullied at […]
Public Health Strategies for Tobacco Prevention and Control
Commercial tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the U.S., disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. For decades, tobacco companies have strategically targeted youth, low-income communities, and racial and ethnic minorities, increasing access to and appeal of tobacco products. Social factors like poverty, discrimination, and adverse childhood experiences further contribute to […]
The Power of Cultural Intelligence: A Key to Effective Leadership in a Diverse World
Cultural intelligence (CQ) is a key factor in leadership success, often surpassing IQ, emotional intelligence (EQ), or lived experience in diverse and complex environments. CQ is more than just understanding different cultures—it is a structured form of intelligence made up of four key components: CQ Drive (motivation), CQ Knowledge (understanding cultural differences), CQ Strategy (planning […]
How to Stop Overthinking
Overthinking is a common mental habit where our minds get trapped in repetitive cycles of doubt and worry, often preventing us from taking effective action. It’s not merely deep contemplation but rather an unproductive loop of rehashing thoughts that can sap our energy and cloud our judgment, making even simple decisions feel overwhelming. Recognizing this […]
The Effects of Marijuana on the Teenage and Young Adult Brain
Marijuana, known for its mind-altering effects due to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is one of the most widely used substances in the United States. In 2021, 11.8 million young adults aged 18 to 25 reported using marijuana, while 30.7% of 12th graders admitted to using it within the past year. With the legalization of marijuana in many […]
Quit Smoking For Better Health
Smoking is incredibly damaging to the body, leading to numerous health problems and significantly increasing the risk of premature death. Cigarette smoking remains the leading preventable cause of disease and death in the United States, claiming nearly half a million lives annually. The harmful chemicals in cigarettes damage the lungs, heart, and blood vessels, contributing […]
The Beauty of Cross-Cultural Friendships: Expanding Horizons & Building Bridges
Friendships that bridge different cultures, languages, and backgrounds offer a unique and enriching perspective on the world. When we connect with people who have different life experiences, we expand our understanding, challenge stereotypes, and develop greater empathy. Learning about another person’s traditions, beliefs, and customs firsthand allows us to see the world from a more […]
Is Adrenal Fatigue Real? Here’s What Medical Experts Have to Say
The term “adrenal fatigue” is often incorrectly used to explain chronic exhaustion, stress, and burnout, but according to experts like Dr. Raj Dasgupta, it is not a recognized medical diagnosis. Research has shown that the adrenal glands don’t simply “wear out” from stress, and there is no scientific evidence supporting the concept of adrenal fatigue. […]
Smoking, Pregnancy, and Babies
Smoking is widely known to cause cancer and other severe health issues, and smoking during pregnancy can lead to serious complications such as premature birth, birth defects, or even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Exposure to cigarette smoke can also harm both the mother and baby. While quitting before pregnancy is ideal, stopping at any […]