In this episode we go over the different types of bullying, warning signs, and how to get support. 

In this episode we go over what bullying is, and how to get support. 

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood. ACEs can include violence, abuse, and growing up in a family with mental health or substance use problems. Toxic stress from ACEs can change brain development and affect how the body responds to stress. ACEs are linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, and substance misuse in adulthood. 

In this episode we go over what ACEs are, some of the impact they have on our lives, and some prevention options. 

Below are some additional resources for ACEs.

• Overview of ACEs (CDC)
• Take your ACEs test
• ACEs and Toxic Stress
• Preventing ACEs Training

Sexual assault is a severe, punishable act that should not be taken lightly. In this epside, we go over:

• What sexual assault is.
• How drugs and alcohol play a factor. 
• Red flags to watch out for. 
• What to do if you or a friend has been a victim of sexual assault.

Support Information:

• Crisis Support Lines
• Resources for Healthy Relationships
• Domestic Violence Support Information

Consent in simple terms means choosing for something to happen. The legal definition says a person gives consent when they ‘agree by choice, and have the freedom and capacity to make that choice.'

In this episode, we clearly define what consent is.

In this episode, we tell a story written by a Bridge Program Mentor, about a young man named Jackson. 

The Bridge is devoted to serving foster children in West Virginia with the vision of creating meaningful and effective support for foster children to be successful in school and beyond. When students are successful, we create wealth not only in the life of the student, but also our communities. 

In the classroom our educators respond to a wide variety of questions from middle and high school students. This podcast segment called, Ask Us Anything, will go over some of those questions and our typical responses. This episode will address questions related to teen pregnancy.

So, your son or daughter lied to you. What should you do? The most important first step you can take, the one that can preserve your relationship, is to remain calm. But the ability to keep your cool and discuss this challenging moment – openly and honestly – will accomplish yet another essential goal: Make it less likely they will be dishonest with you again. 

For help repairing a fractured relationship, read Create Opportunities for Teens to Regain Trust.

Love bombing happens when someone overwhelms you with loving words, actions, and behavior as a manipulation technique.

When you first meet someone, being swept off your feet can feel fun and exciting. Having someone shower you with affection and admiration is especially exhilarating when you’re in the beginning stages of a new relationship.

Love bombing, however, is another story. It happens when someone overwhelms you with loving words, actions, and behavior as a manipulation technique.