Advice from Our Professionals

Informative articles by Youth First’s Service Team

Supporting Your Anxious Teen through a Panic Attack

By Hailey Hagan, MSW - February 14, 2024 Anxious teens are vulnerable to experiencing panic attacks, which can be a frightening experience for both the child and the parent/caregiver. According to the National Institute of Mental Health,…

The Power of Small Therapeutic Moments

All Posts, Counties, Youth First Blog

By Hannah Gill, MSW, LSW - February 7, 2024 These days it seems like a surprising number of children and teens are under significant stress, and this is likely true for many others in our communities. Research shows that the COVID-19 pandemic…

Why It’s Important for Your Child to be Bored

All Posts, Counties, Youth First Blog

By Natasha Goodge, MSW, LSW - February 1, 2024 “I’m bored,” 5-year old Julian often says. As a mother, social worker, and let’s face it, a people pleaser, my initial reaction to this and other complaints is to try to…

Navigating Peer Relationships in High School

All Posts, Counties, Youth First Blog

By Krista Kirk, MSW, LSW - January 24, 2024 Navigating friendships in high school can be a daunting task for many teens. As we grow older, our brains become more complex, and with that, our friendships become more complex as well. It is…

Protecting Your Child’s Mental Health

All Posts, Counties, Youth First Blog

By Kandace Troxell, Intern - January 17, 2024 When you have a baby, your world changes. Your entire focus on life shifts from yourself to keeping your newborn safe and happy. You are constantly holding them, cradling their head, and watching…

Self-Control vs. Redirection

All Posts, Counties, Youth First Blog

By Aaron Ledford, MSW, LSW - January 10, 2024 Emotions, defined as human reactions we experience in response to events or situations, are a mysterious thing and an abstract concept. Without living our emotions out, they are not “real”…