HCPS Wellness Talk

What can you do when your teen’s mood feels like more than just typical teenage behavior?In this episode, as part of Mental Health Awareness Month, school counselors Christine Spilman and Christina Norment discuss anxiety and depression, two of the most common mental health concerns families may encounter. They share how to recognize the difference between typical teen development and signs that something more impactful may be going on. They explore what to watch for in your teen, including changes in mood, behavior, sleep, and relationships.Christine and Christina also discuss the connection between anxiety and depression, the growing role of social media in teen well-being, and what families and care givers can do to support their child. From reaching out to school counselors to exploring therapy and other resources, this conversation offers practical guidance and reassurance that you don’t have to navigate this alone.Sources & Links: ChildMind Institute - Symptoms of Depression in TeensWorld Happiness Report - Social Media and Youth Happiness Declines Mayoclinic - Teen DepressionCDC Anxiety and DepressionTalking to Kids When They Need HelpVideo - What is Depression? - by Therapist AidVideo - The Cycle of Anxiety - by Therapist AidNational Alliance on Mental Illness - Common signs of mental illness

What should families know about teens and technology, and how can we set healthy limits in a world that moves so fast? In this episode of HCPS Wellness Talk, mental health counselors Christine Spilman and Christina Norment talk about raising teens in a digital age we as parents didn’t grow up in, and why giving ourselves grace is an important first step.Christine and Christina break down Virginia’s new social media law (SB 854), share current data about teen app use and mental health, and explain what experts mean about focusing on quality over quantity when it comes to screen time. You’ll also hear practical ideas for families, including setting tech-free zones, talking openly about online risks, modeling healthy habits, and remembering that boredom can spark creativity. For more resources, check out the links below, visit the HCPS Wellness Talk webpage, and reach out to your child’s school for additional support. Sources & Links: Mayo Clinic: Boost Your Brain With BoredomJean Twenge: 10 Rules for Raising Kids in a High Tech WorldOperation Parent: Parent HandbookPew Research Center: Teens, Social Media & AI ChatbotsAmerican Academy of Pediatrics InfographicNew law in Virginia about Social MediaCommon Sense Media: Are some types of screen time better than others?NetsmartzHow to talk to your teen about AI - NPR Lifekit Podcast

What should families know about teen vaping, and how can you tell the difference between a harmless gadget and a hidden vape? In this episode of HCPS Wellness Talks, mental health counselors (and fellow parents of teens) Christine Spilman and Christina Norment break down the basics of vaping, from what e-cigarettes actually are to why fruity smells, “USB drives,” and even hoodie strings can sometimes be cause for a closer look. Christine also shares her expertise as a certified substance abuse counselor, explaining how nicotine, marijuana, and other substances can affect the developing teen brain.Together, Christine and Christina talk through how teens are getting access to vapes, why vaping can open the door to other substance use, and what parents and caregivers can realistically do in response. You’ll hear practical ideas for starting calm, age-appropriate conversations, helping teens connect the risks to their own goals and activities, and knowing when it’s time to “call in the village” by looping in your child’s school for support. Para leer la transcripción de este episodio en español, haga clic aquí.Additional resources: Parent education workshop from Spring 2025American Lung Association Vaping Facts for ParentsTobacco Free KidsTalking to your teens about vapingTruth Initiative