Inspiration for a Happy, Healthy Life

 

It's hard to imagine better inspiration for a happy, healthy life than this sentiment: Decide what kind of life you really want...Then say no to everything that isn't that. And this can apply to anyone at any time in their life.

It really does begin with YOU. In order to change or transform anything in life, you have to decide what it is you want, what direction you wish to head in, or where you'd like to end up. Often, we don't because we lose track or let something sway us off-track.

Be guided by your own intuitive knowing. You know what is best for you, what feels good. Stay connected with your goals and don't let anything - especially alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs - get in the way of living your best life and achieving your dreams!

Drug Use and Its Effects on The Brain

 

Studies show that 1-in-7 Americans may experience a substance use disorder. Some may use drugs to help cope with stress, trauma, or help with mental health issues. Others may develop use disorder after misusing opioid medication prescribed by doctors. Either way, taking drugs over time increases the chances of become addicted.

When people take drugs, chemicals flood the reward system in the brain - this can cause the user to repeat behaviors that may feel good in the moment but are unhealthy and put them at greater risk of harm. 

Over time, the brain adapts to continued drug use by developing a tolerance. When that happens, it requires more and more of a drug to feel the same result. Not only does this lessen the brain's ability to resist temptation, but it can also affect the amount of pleasure a person receives from normal activities like enjoying food or being in the company of others.

Education and increased awareness of the harm of using substances, along with losing support from parents, caregivers, and friends, can help prevent substance use disorders. Continue to stay informed so that you can make better, healthier decisions!

New Study Finds U.S. Moms Facing Mental & Physical Health Struggles

 

A new study looked into the mental health of American moms and the results are concerning - a growing number of mothers in the U.S. seem to be struggling with their mental and physical health.👪

Researchers at the National Survey of Children's Health talked to nearly 200,000 mothers between 2016-2023 and findings showed a sharp drop in maternal mental health. The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, shared that the percentage of mothers who report "excellent" mental health dropped 12 points between 2016 and 2023, from 38% to 26%. Mothers reporting "excellent" physical health dropped 4 points from 28% to 24%. ↓

At the same time, those who answered that their health was "good" rose from 18.8% to 26.1%. Replies of "fair/poor" health rose 3% from 5.5% to 8.5%.

Lead study researcher, Jamie Daw, an assistant professor of health policy and management at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, had this to say in a news release, "Our results highlight the rising tide of worsening mental health among parenting women as a key target for efforts to improve maternal and child health in the U.S."

Researchers suggested that limited access to care, social isolation, and rising substance use disorders may be a contributor to this decline. It is also possible that the Covid pandemic may have played a role in this decline, since there was a lot more isolation in 2022, 2023, and 2024. 😷

Stay Safe on the Roads: 100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers

 

Transportation leaders are urging families to take extra caution on our nation's roads over the coming months. The time between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the 100 deadliest on our roadways since the number of daily crashes involving teen drivers typically rises. Traffic safety managers with AAA attribute the deaths to students being out of school, driving more often over the summer, and taking fewer drives with a focused destination. There's also the reality that more teens tend to be in the car together and there is more nighttime driving.

Auto crashes are the leading cause of death of young people between the ages of 16-19. According to the AAA, nearly 6,700 people were killed in crashes involving a teen driver between Memorial Day and Labor Day from 2013-2022. Last year in Florida, teens were involved in 20,000 crashes in the Sunshine State over these 100 days. For every mile driven, new teen drivers are 3 times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash compared to adults.

Distracted driving plays a role in nearly 6 of 10 crashes. Having other teen passengers in the car is the largest risk factor, followed by electronics like cell phones as the second biggest distraction. 

Research shows that having other teens in the car can contribute to peer pressure and dangerous driving habits like speeding and aggressive driving. Speeding is also a factor in nearly 30% of deadly crashes involving teens - so is not wearing a seatbelt. Teen drivers may also revert to bad habits like not signaling, not coming to complete stops, not checking blind spots, and not keeping a safe distance from other vehicles.

Law enforcement leaders remind parents of teen drivers to set guidelines before handing over the car keys. Talk about safe driving and how it can affect their life as well as the lives of others. Parent should lead by example, teach defensive driving skills, and set rules for when teens can drive and who they can go with. Additional discussion must involve driving alcohol- and drug-free and limiting the number of passengers allowed in the car.

AAA offers an online course called
How to Drive that can help prepare teens

with rules & essential elements of safe driving

https://www.aaadriverprogram.com/

Memorial Day: Remember & Honor

 

On the Memorial Day Weekend, we pay tribute to the heroes who have sacrificed to uphold the cherished values of the United States of America. It is a day of remembrance and reflection for all U.S. military personnel who have died in service and the families who lost a loved one during our nation's wars. We owe a debt of gratitude to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Let’s Unite to make this Memorial Day

 a celebration of courage, honor, and unity!

TRUTH: Most Youth Are Saying YES to Healthy Choices

 

While substance use among youth remains a significant concern, it is also important to celebrate the "upside" that a majority of adolescents are making smart choices by deciding not to use drugs.

InnerAct Alliance is happy to share Real Truths from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) which tell us that many of today's young adults are saying YES to healthy choices. Statistics from the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health show that 46% of young adults age 18-25 have never used illicit drugs, including marijuana.

Positive Choices Matter! Today and every day, we salute youth who enjoy healthy ways to have fun, connect, and thrive without the influence of illicit drugs of any kind. Learn more about the Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the U.S. and review results from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health by clicking this link from SAMHSA.

https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt47095/National%20Report/National%20Report/2023-nsduh-annual-national.pdf?

Honoring Heroes: Military Families Model Strength & Prevention at Home

 

With Memorial Day coming up on Monday, we want to share a recent post from our prevention partners at Informed Families to honor and appreciate the brave men and women who have served our country along with the families who support them.

We are inspired by the critical role that miliary families play in our nation's strength...but we also want to pay tribute to the admirable strength of the Military Family Model, which is built on core values to help support and create a solid foundation for their everyday lives - those of discipline, communication, and resilience. 

These important values can be adopted by all families to encourage parents to stay engaged and informed while setting clear expectations for children to help them learn healthy behaviors and thrive.

*Discipline is more than following rules - it helps to create consistency. Military families often create routines that provide stability and outline expectations, even in unpredictable times. Structure of this kind helps children feel secure and know what is expected of them - creating a foundation for them to make healthy choices.

*Communication is essential in military households - especially during transitions or deployments. Regular check-ins, honest conversations, and intentional family time strengthen relationships and build trust. This level of connection helps children feel heard and supported when they face challenges of peer pressure or difficult decisions.

*Resilience is perhaps the most defining trait - it helps families adapt to change with strength and optimism. Miliary families lean on community support, know how to access resources, and model healthy coping strategies - these are skills every family can benefit from.

Please take a moment this weekend to remember not only those who have served in our nation's military, but also their family members who sacrifice and serve in their own unique way. Let's also find ways to honor their example by building stronger, more connected families rooted in prevention.

Be Mindful of Internet Influences

 

A recent fact check video presented by the Partnership to End Addiction focused on the link between Social Media and Substance Use. It brought to light some powerful truths that, for some teens, the line between the virtual world and the real world may sometimes become blurry.

Although social media apps and websites may be marketed as a safe, fun, online place to interact with family and friends, there is also a dark side that can shape the way teens feel about substance use. Social media may influence teens to experiment with dangerous substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, vaping, marijuana, and prescription drugs. 

Companies like electronic cigarette producer JUUL take advantage of this to market addictive substances to children and teens even though it is illegal. Marketing tricks, like hiring social media influencers to promote vaping products and offering promotional giveaways to attract school-aged students, have helped create a new generation of youngsters hooked on nicotine.

Children and teens need adult guidance when it comes to the realities and dangers of social media usage. Parents should remind youth that what they post has the potential to adversely affect important relationships, hinder potential job opportunities, and impede their goals. A good tip is to get in the habit of pausing for a minute to think before posting to avoid sharing impulsive images and messages that you may later regret.

What Can Parents & Caregivers Do to Keep Children Safe? 

*keep a watchful eye on their child's social media use and be aware of the sites they may be visiting

*discuss potential dangers of interacting over social media with people they don't know

*help teens think through consequences of online actions and dangers of participating in trending challenges

*remind youth that what others post may be how they want things to appear and not reflect reality

Teens must realize that after scrolling the internet, they will return to living in the real world. And that's the world we need to live our lives - not the virtual one. 

For parents interested in viewing the informative video from Partnership to End Addiction and accessing other helpful resources, please visit:

www.drugfree.org

Resources for Good Mental Health: No One Is Alone!

 

Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by mental illness each year. It is important to measure how common mental illness is so we can understand its physical, social, and financial impact and so we can show that No One Is Alone.

The numbers shown in the infographic above from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provide powerful tools for raising public awareness, stigma-busting, and advocating for better health care.

Mental Health Care Matters - mental health treatment, whether it's therapy, medication, or self-care, have made recovery a reality for most people experiencing mental illness. Although taking the first steps can be confusing or difficult, it is important to begin exploring options. 

Click on the links below to contact NAMI for resources and information both nationally and locally here in Polk County.

https://www.nami.org/

https://www.nami.org/affiliate/florida/nami-polk-county/

Monday Mood: How Are You Feeling Today?

 

Happy Monday...always a good time for a check-in, so how are you feeling today?

A feelings check-in, also known as an emotional check-in, is a mindful pause that allows you to recognize and acknowledge your feelings. When you regularly check in with yourself, you're reminding yourself that your feelings and experiences matter.

Acknowledging feelings is a powerful form of self-care and self-respect. Staying aware of feelings and emotions can help us better understand ourselves, identify areas of concern, and cultivate a greater sense of well-being.💪

So whether you're feeling energized or exhausted, optimistic or uncertain - give yourself the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a family member or good friend. YOU are worth it!💓

TRUTH: Not All Youth Use Tobacco or Nicotine Products!

 

During this National Prevention Week, InnerAct Alliance is happy to share Real Truths from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) which tell us that nearly half of young adults have never used tobacco or nicotine products.

Statistics from the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health show that 43.7% of people age 18-25 have said YES to making healthy choices to live a tobacco-free life. This positive choice is more common than you may think.

Here in Polk County, similar statistics from the 2024 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey report that 99% of the 6th-12th grade students surveyed in Polk DO NOT use traditional tobacco products. We salute today's youth who have learned that there are plenty of ways to have fun, connect, and thrive while remaining tobacco or nicotine-free!

Learn more about the Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the U.S. and review results from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health by clicking this link from SAMHSA:

https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt47095/National%20Report/National%20Report/2023-nsduh-annual-national.pdf?

How to Live Well with a Mental Health Condition

 

Mental Health conditions can often disrupt work, school, and weekly schedules, interfere with relationships and social interactions, and more. Good news is that with regular support and treatment, it is possible to manage these conditions, overcome challenges, and lead a meaningful, productive life. Focusing on emotional well-being alongside physical health can open doors to a brighter future. 🌞

During Mental Health Month, take steps to live well with your mental health condition by:

*sticking with a treatment plan
*practicing regular self-care
*reaching out to family & friends
*keeping primary care doctor updated
*developing coping skills
*getting enough rest
*learning more about the condition

https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health?

 

Wear Green Tomorrow - May 15 - to Support Mental Health Awareness

 

Many individuals wait an average of 11 years before seeking help for mental health concerns. No one should have to struggle alone due to stigma or because they are unaware of mental health resources available to them.

During Mental Health Awareness Month, InnerAct Alliance is proud to join with our prevention partners at Peace River Center to shine a light on mental health and help break the stigma by encouraging folks to seek help and share local resources to foster community support and understanding. 

How Can You Help? - Raise awareness by participating in Peace River Center's Wear Green Day tomorrow - Thursday, May 15. Snap a picture wearing green and post on your social media with the hashtag #PRCWearGreenDay to let others know that you support good mental health! 🧠

Be sure to share Peace River's 24-hour emotional support & crisis line at 863-519-3744 because you never know who might need some light.💡 

Click: https://www.facebook.com/events/1781017365889951/

Peace River Center is also offering a Mental Health Awareness Month Community Symposium on Wednesday, May 21 to share helpful mental health skills and resources. To register and receive more information: https://www.peacerivercenter.org/calendar/mham-community-symposium-2025/  

https://www.peacerivercenter.org/

Annual Own The Upside Prevention Summit Highlights

 

Own the Upside was proud to present the Annual Prevention Summit on April 17, 2025 in partnership with InnerAct Alliance, StandUP Polk, and UthMpact. This informational event provided an outstanding opportunity to learn from dynamic guest speakers in enlightening presentations with a realistic view of youth culture, current drug trends, mental health and other issues facing our community.

Special thanks to prevention experts Jessica Napoleon and Taylor Freeman (Florida Dept. of Health, Polk County) for their informative presentation on the State of the County - Substance Abuse & Mental Health; to Joanna P. Tides (Drug Enforcement Administration) for sharing Updated Drug Trends & DEA Prevention Resources; to Kadian Parchment (Heartland for Children) for advocating for change in Trends in Human Trafficking; to Ellen Snelling (Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance & Tampa Alcohol Coalition, TAC) for her expert insights on how to protect children and teens from dangerous Gas Station Drugs; and to Morgan W. Smith (Peace River Center) and Angie Ellison (InnerAct Alliance) for guiding participants through a Strategic Planning Session that modeled ways we can all take a leadership role in contributing to the safety and betterment of our community. 

During the lunch portion of the event, InnerAct Alliance hosted a special Cake Cutting ceremony to kick off our agency's 40th Anniversary Celebration commemorating four decades of service providing substance abuse prevention education programs and events in our community. We were honored to have special guests Bartow Mayor Trish Pfeiffer, Lakeland Mayor Bill Mutz, Lakeland Commissioner Stephanie Madden, and InnerAct Alliance Board President Ryan Rogers of MIDFLORIDA Credit Union on hand to cut the cake. 

Our sincere thanks to our guests, event participants, and to Patrick Grady (TNT Enterprises) for sharing his talents as the event emcee. We appreciate our generous vendor partners Lakeland Police Department, Heartland for Children, DEA, Teen Court, Youth & Family Alternatives, and coalition partners StandUP Polk and UthMpact. Stay tuned for information about the 2026 Prevention Summit once a date is confirmed. 

National Prevention Week May 11-May 17

 

InnerAct Alliance is proud to join with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration  (SAMHSA) and prevention partners across the country to celebrate National Prevention Week May 11-May 17 showcasing those who are making a difference in their communities by preventing substance use and promoting positive mental health. 

One of the major goals of substance abuse prevention is to delay the age of onset of substance use - the earlier parents start talking to children about the risks of using alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD), the better. Starting conversations early - and having them often, is critical since our kids are inundated by more information than ever these days.

Building knowledge of the facts and negative health effects that substance use may have on developing brains and bodies is an important first step. However, inexperienced youth may not be fully convinced by the possibility of negative consequences and may instead believe that adverse effects won't happen to them. 

Active involvement & support of parents and caring adults is critical in the prevention of youth substance abuse. Science shows us that adult and teen brains are wired differently. The rational part of the brain responsible for understanding consequences, known as the prefrontal cortex, is not fully developed until about age 25. That's why teens are not always capable of good judgment - at their age, most information is processed in the brain's amygdala, which controls emotions so they tend to rely more on feelings than thinking their actions through. To help youth resist temptation and peer pressure, pair facts about substance use and brain development with teachable moments.

Let's work together to educate, support, and empower our children to make informed decisions. When kids choose their path and develop skills to safeguard their future goals, they are more inclined to choose actions consistent with their goals and not take risks to jeopardize their ability to achieve them.

SAMHSA is working to change the prevention landscape by providing evidence-based and accessible resources. By working together, we can confront the societal challenges surrounding substance misuse and celebrate stories of prevention. 

For more info, visit:

https://www.samhsa.gov/

Happy Mother’s Day to the Special Women in Our Lives

 

From moms to grandmas, stepmoms, foster moms, aunts...and all of the amazing women who we look to as mother figures, Happy Mother's Day! 🩷

At InnerAct Alliance, we believe prevention begins at home. Strong parental guidance helps to model positive behavior, offer emotional support, and establish a foundation of safety and trust. This belief is backed by statistics that show children who feel supported and connected to a trusted adult are far more likely to make healthy decisions.🌷

Mothers and Mother Figures help to nurture, guide, and shape the way youth view themselves. Through this love and support, Moms have the power to positively influence the choices their children make each and every day. On this Mother's Day Weekend, let's celebrate the super women who care for children because you make a difference in so many ways! 👪

Help Youth Celebrate Safe & Substance Free

 

This is a special time of year as we celebrate the achievements of our amazing youth - from prom to graduation, birthdays to end of school parties and summer break. Whether your kids are celebrating milestones, facing big changes, or just counting down to pool days, we want to support them to have fun and create memories, but also be safe.

Of all alcohol-related fatalities involving teens each year, approximately one-third take place during April, May, and June prom and graduation season. Research shows that youth who start drinking before the age of 15 are at much higher risk for developing alcohol use disorder later in life than those who begin drinking at age 21.

As parents and caring adults, it is our responsibility to help our children celebrate responsibly, especially since they and many of their friends, are underage. Talk with your child about substance use and take steps, such as those in the Informed Families' Safe Homes, Smart Parties Guide, to ensure that no alcohol or drugs are available at teen parties held at your home and discourage them to do so at friends' homes or events they attend.

*Plan in advance - check party plans and know who guests will be. Set limits to prevent an "open party."

*Agree to rules ahead of time - some suggested rules might be: no drugs including alcohol and tobacco - no leaving or returning to the party - no gate crashers.

*Know your responsibilities - responsible adults at a teen party must be visible and aware. It is illegal to serve or provide drugs including beer, wine, wine coolers, etc. to anyone under age 21.

*Supervision is key to keeping a party safe - if guests arrive acting like they are under the influence, notify their parents immediately. Anyone who leaves the party should not be allowed to return; this discourages leaving with intent to drink or use drugs elsewhere then returning to the party.

*Welcome calls from other parents to discuss party arrangements - notify neighbors that a party is planned and assure them it will be properly supervised.

*Plan snacks & activities - serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic drinks and plan fun activities such as movies, dancing, sports, that everyone can enjoy together. Unique and sober teen party suggestions offered by Love to Know can be found at:
https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/teens/safe-sober-grad-night-ideas

*Feedback - after the party, talk with your teen to share observations and frustrations.

Safe and sober parties help teens celebrate in fun, low-risk ways. For tips on how to host safe teen parties, visit Informed Families at:

https://www.informedfamilies.org/campaigns/safe-homes-smart-parties

TRUTH: Not All Young Adults Drink!

 

Here's some Real Truth to Celebrate...more than 1-in-4 young adults have never used alcohol. According to the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 25.3% of young people aged 18 to 25 have never had a drink. This positive choice is more common than you may think. Here in Polk County, stats from the 2024 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey report that 90% of the 6th-12th grade students surveyed in Polk DO NOT USE ALCOHOL.

When teens realize that they are among the majority making healthy choices, they may feel empowered to refrain from this and other risky behaviors. We salute today's youth who have learned that there are plenty of ways to have fun, connect, and thrive - without alcohol!

Learn more about the Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the U.S. and review results from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health by clicking this link from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):

https://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/reports/rpt47095/National%20Report/National%20Report/2023-nsduh-annual-national.pdf?

DEA Seizes Record-Breaking 2.7 Million Fentanyl Pills

 

In a May 6th press briefing in Washington, D.C., Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that federal authorities have made "one of the largest fentanyl busts in U.S. history" - part of a coordinated takedown spanning five states that brought in 11.5 kilos of fentanyl, including 3 million fentanyl-laced pills labeled as oxycodone. Approximately 35 kilos of methamphetamine, 7.5 kilos of cocaine, and 4.5 kilos of heroin were also seized in the drug bust along with $5 million in cash, 49 rifles and pistols, and luxury vehicles.

During yesterday's news conference Bondi shared, "This historic drug seizure is a major blow against the Sinaloa Cartel and it marks the most significant victory in our nation's fight against fentanyl and drug trafficking to date. The multi-agency operation, led by the DEA with local, state, tribal, and federal partners, targeted one of the largest and most dangerous drug trafficking and foreign terrorist organizations in our country to protect American citizens from the scourge of fentanyl. The Department of Justice will continue working with our law enforcement partners to dismantle every cartel network operating illegally in the U.S."

The seizure led to the arrests of multiple people tied to the violent Mexican Sinaloa cartel. The leader of the drug ring, Alberto Salazar Amaya, is a high-ranking member of the cartel known to have distributed drugs across New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado. Sixteen people were arrested in the drug bust - at least six of them were found to be in the country illegally, according to Bondi. 

Kudos to the DEA agents, law enforcement, and others who work tirelessly to rid our streets of these dangerous illicit drugs. 

Read more from the DEA media release:

https://www.dea.gov/press-releases/2025/05/06/dea-seizes-record-breaking-27-million-fentanyl-pills

Fentanyl Poisoning from Counterfeit Pills

 

The presence of fentanyl in today's drugs poses a grave threat to the safety of teens and adults alike. Fentanyl is widely available, highly addictive, and comes in a variety of colors, shapes, and forms including powder and pills.💊

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in 2024 half of all counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl contain a potentially lethal dose of the powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Just 2 milligrams of fentanyl - approx. the size of 5-7 grains of table salt - is considered a lethal dose.🚫🕱 

Drug traffickers make large amounts of deadly fentanyl to sell as a standalone substance or mix with other dangerous street drugs to increase supply, create new users, and encourage repeat business. It can also be laced in heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. 

Users may not be aware they are ingesting fentanyl. It only take one bad decision, so protect yourself and your loved ones by staying informed.

 
https://drugfree.org/fentanyl-poisoning/

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

 

InnerAct Alliance joins with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and national and community partners to promote Mental Health Awareness Month during the month of May. Mental Health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being - it affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts. It also helps determine how one handles stress, relates to others, and makes healthy choices.

Fast Facts from the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) show mental health issues are among the most common health conditions in the U.S.:

*More than 1-in-5 adults live with mental health issues

*Over 1-in-5 youth (age 13-18) currently or at some point in their life had a seriously debilitating mental illness

*Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people ages 10-14 in the U.S.

*50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14; and 75% by age 24

Prioritizing mental health strengthens individuals, families, and communities. In the coming weeks, we will promote acceptance, share helpful information about the vital role mental health plays in overall well-being, and suggest resources offering support.

It is healthy to talk about feelings and take actions, but some people may feel reluctant to reach out for help because they are concerned about the stigma associated with having a mental illness. Talking to a trusted friend or seeking a therapist for support can help you find coping strategies.

Help is available 24/7 through the 988 Lifeline Network to access skilled crisis workers who are trained to provide support and share helpful resources related to substance abuse, mental and physical illness, depression, loneliness and more. Call or text 988 - the call is FREE & confidential - or visit https://988lifeline.org

Additional Resources

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support

https://www.cdc.gov/mental-health/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/

Celebrate All Your Wins – Big and Small

 

Love this positive advice - it's important to take time to celebrate the small wins along life's way.🙌 Small steps build momentum and help us stay focused.

Similarly, breaking projects into small steps can help reduce fear, clarify direction, and increases probability of future success. While small wins may not feel like much at the time, with consistency and persistence, they can lead us toward larger, more ambitious accomplishments.✌

Celebrate the small wins because they are truly the building blocks that help us make it to the finish line...and beyond!🎆

The Best Thing Parents Can Serve: Common Sense

 

It's a wonderful time of year to celebrate the achievements of our amazing youth! It's also important to be aware that some teens may think of this time as a "rite of passage" that should include alcohol, but in reality the time period from prom night to graduation can also be the most risky and dangerous when it comes to drinking and driving. 

As parents and caring adults, it is our responsibility to help our children celebrate safe and responsibly, especially since they and many of their friends are underage. Your voice matters more than peer pressure or social media. Remind your teens that underage drinking is NOT the norm - in fact, statistics show that among 6-12 grade students in Polk County, 90% DO NOT USE ALCOHOL (Florida Youth Substance abuse Survey, 2024). When teens realize that they are among the majority making healthy choices, they may feel empowered to refrain from risky behaviors. 

Praise your teens for the healthy choices they make and this will help to reinforce how their choices affect their goals and future plans.

InnerAct Alliance joins with our prevention partners at Informed Families and the National Family Partnership to help Florida's kids grow up safe, healthy, and drug free. Their FREE Safe Homes, Smart Parties Guide offers tips to guide teens in ways to celebrate responsibly and establishes firm guidelines for acceptable behaviors during this celebratory time of year. Visit Informed Families and take the Safe Homes, Smart Parties pledge promising that no alcohol or drugs will be present at parties you host: https://www.informedfamilies.org/campaigns/safe-homes-smart-parties