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Hometown Health
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Hometown Health Blog

Have you talked to your children about alcohol use?

Caring adults in children's lives have the power of influence. Get tips to help you talk with your children about the dangers of alcohol. It could save a life.

Tyler Oesterle, M.D., M.P.H. By Tyler Oesterle December 8, 2023

5 ways to help teens overcome suicidal thoughts

When life gets challenging, the rates of depression, feelings of hopelessness and thoughts of suicide can increase. Here are five things you can do to help teens overcome suicidal thoughts.

Lisa Hardesty, Ph.D., L.P. By Lisa Hardesty August 31, 2023

The W-Curve Model: Understanding a new college student’s experience

Freshman year of college is known for new experiences, but it also presents challenges. The W-Curve model is an emotional pattern incoming students may experience during their first year in college.

Rosean Bishop LP By Rosean Bishop August 24, 2023

College students and depression: A guide for parents

Many college students struggle with depression or anxiety. As school resumes, talk about these conditions with your student, and brush up on symptoms and warning signs so you can step in with help.

Kristen Bowe CNP By Kristen Bowe August 22, 2023

Back to school: Tips to help students adjust

Returning to school can be exciting for some students but cause worry or anxiety for others. Get tips for helping your student adjust to new routines, friends and school expectations.

Jessie Wolf LICSW By Jessie Wolf July 26, 2023

Help your teen navigate celebrations substance-free

It can be tough to talk with your teen about drugs and alcohol. It's essential to have these conversations long before events, such as graduations and weddings. These tips can get you started.

Glenn Kauppila, D.O. By Glenn Kauppila May 8, 2023

6 tips to reduce children's screen time

Screened devices are part of everyday activities from store checkout to reading on a tablet. There are health benefits to reducing screen time. Here are six tips to help your family trim screen time.

Sarah Scherger MD By Sarah Scherger April 17, 2023

Help! I think my teenager is cutting

Emotional pain almost always is associated with self-harm in teenagers. Read why creating a crisis plan of things to do when in such a frame of mind can be beneficial.

Patrick Bigaouette MD By Patrick Bigaouette April 11, 2023

What to know, do if your teen experiences dating violence

Every year, millions of teens in the U.S. experience dating violence, which can lead to lifelong effects on health and well-being. As a parent or caregiver, here's what you need to know.

Patrick Bigaouette MD By Patrick Bigaouette December 15, 2022

Empowering families to strengthen youth mental health

Family support and connection are important for helping children manage depression or anxiety. Learn how youth-focused treatment and techniques can help families find the right recipe for care.

Janice Schreier MSW By Janice Schreier October 28, 2022

Changes ahead: Talking with children about puberty

Puberty is natural, and parents have no reason to fear it for their children. Get practical tips for discussing this exciting phase with kids and preparing them for the changes ahead.

Sarah Sistek, APRN, C.N.P., D.N.P. By Sarah Sistek October 25, 2022

Raising healthy eaters: Should kids clean their plate?

If your kids are picky eaters, eat the same foods or only want to snack all day, you're not alone. Find out if kids really do need to clean their plate, and get nine tips to raise healthy eaters.

Grace Fjeldberg RDN By Grace Fjeldberg September 21, 2022