Close to Home: A Susquehanna Kids Podcast

What does it actually feel like to be a teenager right now, and how do you tell the difference between a rough week and something that needs more support?

In our first episode, host Chad Evans talks with Dr. Sam Faulkner and Egan Shimel. Dr. Faulkner is a child and adolescent psychologist, a Nationally Certified School Psychologist, and Clinical Director of Psychological Services at the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit (CSIU), home of the NEST Clinic, a school-integrated outpatient mental health clinic for children, teens, and families. Egan is a local teen performer and advocate for teen mental health.

In this episode:

• The pressure to fit in, and why teens are afraid to talk about mental health
• Signs a struggle needs more attention: how long it lasts, and whether it’s getting in the way of school, friends, or family
• How to find a trusted adult, and what helps when a friend is struggling
• Social media, comparison, and online trends
• What vaping does to a developing brain, and how to talk with your teen about it without pushing them toward secrecy
• The one thing parents can do today: listen first

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 any time.

For tips on talking with your teen about vaping, signs to watch for, and free local support, visit Beyond the Hype’s parent resources.

Close to Home is a Susquehanna Kids podcast, produced in partnership with Stone State Entertainment Studio.

Episode page and local resources: Susquehanna Kids

This episode is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The podcast contents are those of the participants and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government.