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WHY SOME KIDS/TEENS GET IN TROUBLE AT SCHOOL, ACT OUT AT HOME, AND DONT FOLLOW RULES? Looking deeper, sometimes it comes down to one reason. I'll share more underlying reasons in upcoming videos. #LICENSEDTHERAPIST #25YEARSEXPERIENCE #PowerAndControl #KidsBehavior #UnderstandingKids #ParentingTips #EmotionalIntelligence #PositiveParenting #ChildDevelopment #MindfulParenting #KidsWillBeKids #ConflictResolution

First of all, I'm confronting the mirror and challenging my own habitual problem here. Phone addiction is real. In today's fast-paced digital world, our cell phones have become our most intimate complanion, stealing our attention and disconnecting us from the present moment. Many of us are suffering from phone addiction. However, it's crucial to recognize the incredible power of being fully present during human interactions. By intentionally turning off our phones and tuning in to the people and experiences around us, we can deepen our connections, foster meaningful conversations, and create lasting memories. Let's explore practical ways to disconnect from our devices and embrace the beauty of human interaction in various aspects of our lives. 1. Work Meetings: During work meetings, challenge yourself to turn off your phone or put it on silent mode. By doing so, you eliminate distractions and signal your commitment to the conversation at hand. Engage actively, listen attentively, and contribute thoughtfully. Being present in meetings not only enhances collaboration but also shows respect for your colleagues' ideas. 2. Breaking Bread with Others When dining with friends, family, or colleagues, make it a habit to keep your phone out of sight. Create a designated "phone-free zone" at the table. Use this opportunity to focus on the food, engage in meaningful conversations, and connect with those around you. By giving your full attention, you foster deeper relationships and create a sense of togetherness. 3. School and Education In academic settings or training sessions, disconnect from your phone to fully engage in the learning experience. Take notes, ask questions, and actively participate in discussions. By immersing yourself in the subject matter and connecting with peers, you enrich your understanding and build valuable connections. 4. Family Time During family time, make a conscious effort to turn off your phone and prioritize quality interactions. Engage in activities that promote togetherness, such as game nights, outings, or simply sharing stories. By being fully present, you strengthen family bonds, create lasting memories, and nurture a sense of belonging. 5. Dates: When on a date, give your undivided attention to your partner. Turn off your phone or put it on silent mode and focus solely on the person in front of you. Engage in meaningful conversations, maintain eye contact, and actively listen. By disconnecting from distractions, you can forge deeper connections and create a foundation for a fulfilling relationship. 6. Church and Spiritual Gatherings Attending religious or spiritual gatherings provides an opportunity for deep introspection and connection with others. Prioritize being present by turning off your phone or putting it on silent. Engage in the rituals, listen to the sermons, and participate actively. By immersing yourself in the spiritual experience, you can foster a profound connection with your faith and the community. 7. Bedtime To promote restful sleep and enhance your overall well-being, establish a phone-free routine before bedtime. Disconnect from your device at least 30 minutes before sleep, allowing your mind to unwind and prepare for rest. Engage in calming activities such as reading, journaling, or practicing mindfulness. By prioritizing quality sleep, you wake up refreshed and ready to embrace the new day. In a world filled with constant digital distractions, it's essential to reclaim our presence during human interactions. By consciously turning off our phones and tuning in to the people and experiences around us, we cultivate deeper connections, meaningful conversations, and a greater sense of fulfillment. Whether it's work meetings, meals, school, family time, dates, church, bedtime, or any other in-person interactions, let's commit to turning off and tuning in. Remember, the moments we share with others are precious. By disconnecting from our cell phones and being fully present, we honor those moments and create space for genuine connections to flourish. So, let's challenge ourselves to turn off and tune in, embracing the beauty of human interaction in every aspect of our lives. Together, we can build a world where presence is valued, conversations are meaningful, and relationships are nurtured. I'm ready for this, are you? See what Simon Sinek says about this? https://youtu.be/0tVw2xArV0k?si=9ubUUb-4hdseWfio Dr. J

Unhealthy dietary habits and their impact on physical health have long been a topic of concern. However, it is important to recognize that the influence of poor nutrition is not the sole determinant of chronic health illness, particularly among African Americans. Toxic stress resulting from UNADDRESSED adverse childhood experiences and psychological trauma can also significantly contribute to negative health outcomes. This article aims to shed light on the detrimental effects of toxic stress on physical well-being, explore its specific impact on African Americans, and provide systematic strategies to mitigate traumatic experiences. The Impact of Toxic Stress on Physical Health Toxic stress refers to prolonged exposure to adverse experiences, such as abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction, without the necessary support from caring adults. This chronic stress can disrupt the body's stress response system, leading to dysregulation of various physiological processes. Research has shown that toxic stress is associated with an increased risk of developing chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and other long term physical illnesses. African Americans and the Burden of Toxic Stress African Americans face unique challenges that contribute to higher rates of toxic stress. Historical and ongoing experiences of racism, discrimination, socioeconomic disparities, and limited access to quality healthcare all contribute to the accumulation of stressors. These factors disproportionately affect African American communities, resulting in higher rates of chronic diseases and poorer health outcomes compared to other racial or ethnic groups. Mitigating Traumatic Experiences Addressing toxic stress requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses individual, community, and systemic interventions. Here are some strategies to mitigate traumatic experiences and promote resilience: 1. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Awareness Increasing awareness about ACEs among healthcare professionals, educators, community members, parents, and youth helps identify individuals at risk and provide appropriate interventions and support. 2. Trauma-Informed Care Implementing trauma-informed practices in healthcare, educational, and social service settings ensures that individuals affected by toxic stress are treated with compassion, sensitivity, and cultural humility. 3. Self-Care Living a self-care life style can be one of life's most precious assets especially for those with a chronic stress. A few recommended strategies include but not limited to physical exercise, nutritious foods, meditation, mindfulness, journaling, yoga, and mental health counseling. 4. Accessible Health Services Expanding access to affordable and culturally competent physical/mental health services can help individuals prevent and cope with the effects of toxic stress. 5. Community Support and Resilience Programs Building supportive communities and implementing programs that promote resilience, such as social emotional mentoring, after-school enrichment, parent support groups and self care strategies can provide a buffer against the effects of toxic stress. 6. Policy and Advocacy Efforts Advocating for policies that address socioeconomic disparities, improve access to quality programs, affordable housing, and healthcare can help alleviate the root causes of toxic stress. Recognizing that the impact on physical health is not solely attributed to unhealthy dietary habits, it is crucial to address the effects of chronic stress, especially among African Americans and other marginalized communities. By implementing strategies to mitigate traumatic experiences and promote resilience, individuals and communities can work towards reducing health disparities and fostering better overall well-being. References Felitti, V. J., Anda, R. F., Nordenberg, D., Williamson, D. F., Spitz, A. M., Edwards, V., ... & Marks, J. S. (1998). Relationship of childhood abuse and household dysfunction to many of the leading causes of death in adults: The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 14(4), 245-258.