The mental health emergency in the United States has reached an inflection point, with widespread public consensus that urgent action is necessary. Concerns include mental health challenges among children and teenagers, now recognized as being at a crisis level. The long-term impacts of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated these issues. In this crucial moment, nearly half of all parents responding to a KFF/CNN survey reported that the pandemic has adversely impacted their children’s mental health. Parents are rightfully worried, with over 80% expressing concern over depression, subst ..read more

Most teens are aware of the importance of good nutrition. However, in some cases, the well-intentioned pursuit of a healthful diet can transform into an obsession known as orthorexia. At The Forum, we believe in recognizing the fine line between health-conscious eating and disordered eating. Though not as widely recognized as other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia, orthorexia is equally concerning and can severely impact your child’s physical and mental health. What Is Orthorexia? Orthorexia’s defining characteristic is an extreme preoccupation with consuming “healthy,” “pure ..read more

In an era where the digital landscape is as much a part of our children’s lives as the physical one, understanding the impact of social media on mental health has never been more crucial. Platforms like Instagram, YouTube and TikTok have become ubiquitous for many adolescents, shaping their perceptions of the world and themselves. While these apps can offer positive experiences, they can also pose significant risks to developing minds. At The Forum, we believe in empowering parents and guardians with knowledge and strategies to address these challenges effectively. The Double-Edged Sword of So ..read more

While most parents are increasingly vigilant about the dangers of marijuana and alcohol, a hidden threat lurks in many homes – nitrous oxide, commonly found in products like canned whipped cream. This seemingly harmless household item can provide a rapid, risky high. Understanding the dangers of whippets and recognizing the signs of abuse can be crucial in preventing severe health consequences for young adults. What Are Whippets? Whippets involve inhaling nitrous oxide, popularly known as laughing gas. When someone inhales this substance, it rapidly enters the bloodstream, leading to an almost ..read more

Adolescence is a pivotal chapter in life, marked by rapid changes and significant growth. However, it’s also a time when many teens experience a decline in their mental health. For example, anxiety can profoundly impact your child’s daily life, relationships, and academic performance. Anxiety disorders are increasingly common among American teens, and recognizing anxiety’s defining characteristics is crucial for getting your child early intervention, support, and guidance. The Forum specializes in comprehensive mental health treatment for teens between the ages of 12 and 17, fostering an envir ..read more

Teen substance abuse is a public health crisis and a heartbreaking reality for many families. Since October is Substance Abuse Prevention Month, let’s explore the landscape of teen drinking and drug use and the steps you can take to guide your child through this challenge. Understanding the Roots of Teen Substance Abuse Why do some adolescents turn to drugs? This behavior doesn’t happen a vacuum. From the whirlwind of peer pressure to curiosity about the unknown, numerous factors entice teens into the world of substance abuse. For some, family history may predispose them to addiction, while fo ..read more

October shines a spotlight on a prevalent but often misunderstood condition – attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Celebrating ADHD Awareness Month aims to amplify understanding, dispel myths, and champion the countless people navigating life with this unique form of neurodivergence. At The Forum, we’re proud to be part of this conversation, guiding families and teens through the intricacies of ADHD. Understanding ADHD: More Than Just Restlessness At its core, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting attention regulation, impulse control, and activity levels. However, it’s essentia ..read more

From tablets to smartphones, bright screens dominate our world. While these devices have undeniably made our lives more connected and convenient, they’ve also sparked a longstanding debate – how much screen time is too much, especially for our kids? The Growing Concern of Technology Addiction In his enlightening book, Glow Kids: How Screen Addiction is Hijacking Our Kids and How to Break the Trance, Dr. Nicholas Kardaras presents a bold analogy – excessive screen time’s neurological impact is akin to the damage caused by hardcore drug addiction. It’s a startling comparison, one that might seem ..read more

The teenage years are rife with academic challenges, emotional upheaval, and developmental changes. The pressure of transitioning from childhood to adulthood can become overwhelming. Unfortunately, suicidal ideation accompanies some adolescents on this journey. At The Forum, we aim to deepen understanding around this topic, provide clarity on its complexities, and offer guidance on how to identify and help at-risk children. Teen Suicide Statistics The reality surrounding teen suicide should be a wake-up call to all American adults. Here are a few figures from the CDC: Suicide ranks as the thi ..read more

Returning to school can be an exciting and overwhelming time for many students and their families. However, for those with learning disabilities, this transition can come with additional challenges that may hinder their ability to reach their full potential. Let’s explore some common learning disabilities, their symptoms and how they can affect students academically and socially. 1. Dyslexia Dyslexia is a language-based disability that involves challenges with reading, writing and understanding written text. Those with dyslexia have trouble recognizing and decoding words, as well as pinpointin ..read more