Bullying, Body Image, and Eating Disorders

Studies have shown that bullying can have a negative effect on self-image and body-image. I don't think we need a study to tell us that. Mean words, teasing about weight, comments about image...all of this will lead anyone to question his/her image.

We do that anyway. We question if we are pretty, thin, nice, good...enough. We question what people think anyway. We don't need someone else to tell us.

We don't like our hips. Our tummy is too fat. Our butt too round. We grip about our hair. We don't like our...the list goes on and on. Each of us has something we are self conscious about. We each have something that we dwell on.

But...if we get bullied because of it. Bullied about our hips, our tummy, our butt...

We can question it even more. We stop feeling good enough. And maybe, just maybe the best way to fix it is to get thinner. To slim those hips. Tighten that belly. Firm that butt.

(photo courtesy web)

The tragedy of bullying.

Bullying can and will destroy self-esteem and damage body image. This can lead a teen (or adult) to develop an eating disorder.

Eating disorders are serious. It's not just a diet. It's not just about trying to eat better. An eating disorder is an obsession. And it can be fatal.

An eating disorder describes a serious condition in which one has irregular eating habits and severe distress. Bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, over-eating, chew and spit, are all some of the different types of eating disorders.

We are all susceptible to bullying. We are all susceptible to eating disorders. If you or someone you know has the signs and symptoms...get help. Reach out to someone you know and trust. Find help.

October is National Bullying Prevention Month

Best to all, Becca

It's Still September so Let's Keep Raising Awareness

Even though there is only a week and a half left in the month of September, it is still important to keep the conversation going. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among teens between the ages of 15 and 24. Prevention by raising awareness will help decrease the rate and save lives. Don't be afraid to have the conversation. Don't be afraid to get help. 

While suicide prevention is important to address year-round, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month provides a dedicated time to come together. We can all benefit from the conversation. 

One conversation can change a life.

Know The Warning Signs

• Threats or comments about killing themselves, also known as suicidal ideation, can begin with seemingly harmless thoughts like “I wish I wasn’t here” but can become more overt and dangerous
• Increased alcohol and drug use
• Aggressive behavior
• Social withdrawal from friends, family and the community
• Dramatic mood swings
• Talking, writing or thinking about death
• Impulsive or reckless behavior

(from https://www.nami.org/suicideawarenessmonth)

 Know How To Get Help

Crisis Resources

• If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.
• If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255)
• If you’re uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can also text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor on the Crisis Text Line.

Suicide is hard to talk about but the conversations need to be had. How do you start the conversation? Do you know the warning signs?

Best, Becca

13 Reasons Why Controversy

Is Netflix's (and Jay Asher's) 13 Reasons Why too controversial to show on TV? Many experts think yes, and many others think it should be mandatory viewing for young teens.

I heard about this Netflix's show from a friend. Her teen and his friends were all watching it, and the show was the center of their daily chatting. She decided she needed to sit down and binge watch it to see what they were all talking about it. In passing, she had mentioned it to me. I had not yet heard of this show, however, 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher is one of my favorite books, and I have read and reread it many times. So I was more than curious. I had to look it up. 

Here is the description of both the show and the book:

You can’t stop the future. 

You can’t rewind the past.
The only way to learn the secret . . . is to press play.
Clay Jensen returns home from school to find a strange package with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers several cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker—his classmate and crush—who committed suicide two weeks earlier. Hannah's voice tells him that there are thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life. Clay is one of them. If he listens, he'll find out why. 
                
Clay spends the night crisscrossing his town with Hannah as his guide. He becomes a firsthand witness to Hannah's pain, and as he follows Hannah’s recorded words throughout his town, what he discovers changes his life forever.

Newcomer Katherine Langford plays the role of Hannah, a young woman who takes her own life. Two weeks after her tragic death, a classmate named Clay finds a mysterious box on his porch. Inside the box are recordings made by Hannah -- on whom Clay had a crush -- in which she explains the 13 reasons why she chose to commit suicide. If Clay decides to listen to the recordings, he will find out if and how he made the list. This intricate and heart-wrenching tale is told through Clay and Hannah's dual narratives.

And the movie trailer:

I am intrigued. And very interested in how they brought Jay Asher's book to life on the television screen. And beyond that, I am curious on how they presented the difficult issue of suicide. The book is based primarily on the topic.

This show has created an uproar...

Many experts are concerned and feel this program will result in suicide contagion. (Suicide contagion is the exposure to suicide or suicidal behaviors within one's family, one's peer group, or through media reports of suicide and can result in an increase in suicide and suicidal behaviors.) They feel it will cause vulnerable teens to end their lives. 

While many others are saying it will help start the ever-hard conversation of suicide and bring to the surface the tough issue of depression and bullying. 

Which side is right? Do we avoid these issues? Does making a TV show like this bring to light these types of concerns? Or does something like this make it worse?

I have never shied away from the tough issues. I think it is important to bring to light difficult situations and always feel that books, movies, and shows are a great way to start the conversation. I do know, however, that glorifying tough issues can and will result in a contagion. Should this stop us from seeing or letting our teens see this show? I have not yet seen this show. I can not speak to how this show may or may not glorify the topic of suicide. I do love the book and feel it is a great conversation starter. I strongly feel that a conversation must be had, regardless of how difficult it is for us. I think avoiding these issues will make it worse, not better. And maybe, just maybe a book or show like this will save a life, not destroy one. 


This is a very controversial issue, however. And one most people would prefer to avoid. 

What are your thoughts???  Would you let your teen see this show? How do you talk about tough issues with your teen or your friends?

Let me know in the comments below. I would love to hear from you.

Best, Becca


For more information here is a great article from CNN on the controversy http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/25/health/13-reasons-why-teen-suicide-debate-explainer/

February is...Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

Although we should be talking about this all year young...February is a good place to start.

It's teen dating violence awareness month. The statistics are overwhelming...1 in 3 teens are victims. And sometimes we have no idea how to talk about it. As adults, we need to spark a conversation. As a teen, we need to talk to others about what's right and wrong in our lives and relationships. And now's a good a time as any!

Start by talking about healthy relationships...Ask the question--What is a healthy relationship?

It can be hard to even answer that question, but this is a great place to start. Ask questions and determine what a healthy relationship means to you, to your teen, to your friends. Then build from there.

Throughout the month, I will be covering healthy relationships in more detail. We will talk about signs of an unhealthy relationship. I will share information on how to spot signs and how to get help.

Make sure you keep coming back throughout the month for fun facts, important information, and fun contests and give-a-ways!!!!


And while you are at it, join in and help raise awareness on this serious issue.

It's important to get involved. Join Loveisrespect.org throughout the month...

How Can You Get Involved? (From loveisrespect.org)

There are lots of ways you can join the conversation and help raise awareness about dating violence! Mark your calendars for our events:

• Feb. 8: “Love is Respect, Online and Off!” Twitter chat at 6:30 p.m. CT. Cohosted by That’s Not Cool! Follow #teendvchat to join.
• Feb. 13-17: Respect Week! Download our Respect Week Guide on the Teen DV Month page for event and activity ideas.
• Feb. 14: On Valentine’s Day, we wear #orange4love! Let us know you’ll be wearing orange on our Facebook event page, and be sure to share your pics with us!
• Feb. 15: ”Let’s Talk About Respect + Sex, Baby” Twitter chat at 7 p.m. CT. Follow #teendvchat to join.
• Feb. 17: National Respect Announcement. Join our Thunderclap and help spread the message that everyone deserves a healthy relationship!
• Feb. 23: Join our webinar, “Teens Helping Teens: Empowering Young People to Support Each Other” at 3:30 p.m. CT. During this webinar, aimed at adult allies (educators, parents, programs, organizations), we’ll be discussing tips and strategies for empowering young people to support one another. Register here!

 Hope to see you joining in!

Come back here for more information and fun give-a-ways throughout the month

Best,

Becca

Stalking Happens in Teens, Too

January is National Stalking Awareness Month. So let's take a moment and talk about stalking...

Facts- As many as 1 in 7 teens have been a stalking victim.  18-25 year olds experience the most amount of stalking than any other age group. Stalking is commonly done by someone the victim knows?


First off, what is stalking?

Stalking is defined as a pattern of behavior directed at a specific person that would put a reasonable person in fear.

Stalking can occur in person, at school, in public, and online.

You are being stalked if a person repeatedly watches you, follows you, harasses you, or makes you feel unsafe. A stalker can be someone you know such as a friend or an ex or current boy/girlfriend.

If you are being stalked get help. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger. Save all texts, posts and other evidence. Let others know, including an adult or teacher. Get professional help. Obtain a protection order.

For more information check out loveisrespect.org and http://stalkingawarenessmonth.org/about

Be safe!

Best,
Becca

A New Year, A New Road, and a Million Goals to Get There

Well, it's a new year. 

I hope to find new adventures down new roads. 

And I hope to reach new heights through new goals. 

I'm ready for a new start.

Cheers to what's to come.

And a big thank you to all that's been.

Here's to wishing you all good luck on your new adventures.

Best, Becca

Get Your Read On for Christmas

I love this time of year and all the wonderful books out there to read.

And I now have a new favorite Christmas book from my most favorite person ever.

This story is so darn cute and amazing, and the pictures are bright and beautiful! Make sure you order your copy today. And pick some up for friends, too. I think they will love it.

Inflatable, Santa's Secret Army
By: Sara Gurule

When old man Tubbs sets out to stop Santa's Christmas Eve landing, an unlikely group prepares for battle. Santa's secret army, the Inflatables, are tasked every year with protecting Christmas. Perched on lawns and disguised as decorations they must foil Tubbs plan before it's too late. If they fail they risk there being no Christmas at all.

Buy it now in either paperback or ebook at Amazon.com

Enjoy!

Happy Holidays,
Becca

#givingtuesday

Giving Tuesday is a global event that falls on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving in the US. It is fueled by the power of social media and collaboration. Check out https://www.givingtuesday.org/ for more information.

Give

Create

Community

Take time today and kick of the season of giving by donating to a charity or clause close to your heart.  

In Honor of Veterans Day

Thank you to all Veterans for their sacrifices. I am grateful for my freedom. God Bless!

Timeless by Crystal Collier

Introducing Timeless by Crystal Collier!

I'm so excited to announce Crystal Collier's new book in the Maiden of Time Series! On sale now at Amazon.com

Here is Timeless!!!! Go buy it now!!!!

Title: TIMELESS

Author: Crystal Collier

Publisher: Raybourne Publishing

Series: Maiden of Time, #3

Publication: November 1, 2016

Category: Young Adult (YA)

Genre: Paranormal Historical

 Alexia races against her own clock, and the birth of her child, to stop the Soulless from existing.

TIME IS THE ENEMY

In 1771, Alexia had everything: the man of her dreams, reconciliation with her father, even a child on the way. But she was never meant to stay. It broke her heart, but Alexia heeded destiny and traveled five hundred years back to stop the Soulless from 

becoming.

In the thirteenth century, the Holy Roman Church has ordered the Knights Templar to exterminate the Passionate, her bloodline. As Alexia fights this new threat—along with an unfathomable evil and her own heart—the Soulless genesis nears. But none of her hard-won battles may matter if she dies in childbirth before completing her mission.

Can Alexia escape her own clock?

The first two books in the series are available now at Amazon.com

Crystal Collier is an eclectic author who pens clean fantasy/sci-fi, historical, and romance stories with the occasional touch of humor, horror, or inspiration. She practices her brother-induced ninja skills while teaching children or madly typing about fantastic and impossible creatures. She has lived from coast to coast and now calls Florida home with her creative husband, four littles, and “friend” (a.k.a. the zombie locked in her closet). Secretly, she dreams of world domination and a bottomless supply of cheese. You can find her on her blog, Facebook, Goodreads, or follow her on Twitter.

To see more of the blog tour check out Crytal's website at crystalcollier.blogspot.com

Enjoy!

Best to all, 

Becca

Stand Up, Speak Up, Stomp Out Bullying

October brings the change of seasons, but it also brings up National Bullying Awareness and Prevention Month. School and organizations everywhere join in and raise awareness on bullying.


Did you know???

160,000

Kids stay home each day to escape bullying

During October, take the time to raise awareness and spread the word.

The month starts with Wear Blue day on October 3rd. Even if you missed it today, it's not too late to pull on a blue shirt and raise awareness.

The week of October 10th-  Make a new friend. Ask someone you don't know to sit with you at lunch or hang out after school. Be a leader and take action. Don't let isolation consume you or someone else.

The week of October 17th- Stand up for others. If you see someone being bullied, stand up and speak out. If you don't feel safe, find an adult.

The week of October 24th- Raise awareness by speaking to others, sharing stories on social media, holding a function, or many other. Creating awareness is one speak closer to ending the epidemic of bullying.

Let's stand up, speak up and stomp out bullying! Together we can all make a difference.


A great organization dedicated to prevention and awareness of bullying:

This is one of my favorites organizations dedicated to prevention and awareness on bullying. Make sure you take the time to see all they do. 

from Stand for the Silent: 

Founded in 2010, Stand for the Silent has fast become one of the leading and most effective anti-bullying organizations. Our mission is simple: bring awareness to bullying and the real devastation it causes.

Stand For The Silent runs solely off of generous donations from those who support our mission. We could not do what we do without each and every one of your giving and caring hearts. We encourage you to get involved in SFTS, in whatever capacity you can. There is nothing too big or small. Stand with us and help us change the world!

Remember: We can each make a difference!

Join me in stomping out bullying.

Best to all,

Becca

One Conversation Can Change a Life

September is suicide prevention and awareness month. And it is so important to start a conversation and help promote resources and awareness on the prevention of suicide. It is important to learn how to talk about this sensitive issue without increasing harm.

Mental illness can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, religion. The effects can leave one feeling lost and alone and without help. But it is okay to get help. Without help individuals are left vulnerable.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death in the US. It is so important to know the warning signs and when and how to get help.






Warning signs:

Threats or comments about killing themselves, also known as suicidal ideation, can begin with seemingly harmless thoughts like “I wish I wasn’t here” but can become more overt and dangerous

Increased alcohol and drug use

Aggressive behavior

Social withdrawal from friends, family and the community

Dramatic mood swings

Talking, writing or thinking about death

Impulsive or reckless behavior

- See more at: http://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-Conditions/Related-Conditions/Risk-of-Suicide#sthash.BpriPCWz.dpuf

It is important to know when to get help. But most importantly if you or you think someone you know is suffering, please reach out immediately. Prevention is the best cure.


Some great organizations to get help:

Take a minute and share what you know. Awareness on such a serious issue is important. We need to learn how to talk about these tough issues so we can all join in on preventing them.

Best to all,

Becca

Saying Goodbye to Summer

So Labor Day is here. Officially it is a holiday in which we celebrate the dedication of social and economic advancements of the American worker. Unofficially, though, it is the end of summer. I know, I know, summer doesn't really end until September 22 when the fall solstice comes upon us. However, by Labor Day all the local pools shut down, our summer camping gear gets packed up, the RVs return to their storage lot, the days are shorter and cooler, and almost all kids have returned to school.

Don't get me wrong, I like fall--I like fall a lot. Especially in Colorado. The leaves turn a beautiful shade of yellow, orange, and red. The air gets crisp and cool. And most of all, things start to die off and my allergies calm down a bit. (I'm actually looking forward to that this year...what a season and the first freeze really helps with that. It also helps kill all the bugs...which is nice) Regardless of how much I love the fall, I always feel sad when this time of year comes. I love summer, and I mean LOVE summer.

Summer brings warmth and longer days. And I like to fill those days with fun outdoor activities. I know that in Colorado you can be outdoors almost all year long, but there is something about being able to just sit outside and not have to bundle up. In summer, there are concerts at the park, picnics, swimming, neighborhood parties. (Where in the winter, everyone snuggles up inside their own homes on those long, dark evening.) I love hanging out back and having a fire and roasting marshmallows with my family. And I love to hike. I hike in the winter, but in the summer I don't have to worry about how many layers to wear...a pair of shorts and a tee works just fine. And of course, I love to take the top of my jeep and go for mountain drives.

Summer makes me happy. 

So here we are...Labor Day has come around and I have must say goodbye to my favorite season and all the fun things I love to do during it...like hiking, rafting, swimming, biking, etc. And I have to put the top back on the jeep...bummer.

I'll embrace the upcoming seasons...I always do. But for now--Goodbye Summer! I'll miss ya until next year.

Happy Labor Day to all. Enjoy your weekend! 

Best to you all,

Becca

Introducing...Piper Morgan

A new series by Stephanie Faris. 

I highly recommend checking out Stephanie Faris' latest books. Piper Morgan is a great read and perfect for ages 6-9 years old. What a wonderful series to introduce to elementary age girls. Both books were funny and cute. The characters were adorable and easy to relate to. And I loved the little facts throughout the stories, very informative and interesting with a spice of mystery. I also loved the illustrations. I can't wait to see more of Piper Morgan. This is going to be a great series for young girls to get hooked on.

The first two books in the Piper Morgan series are on sale now at Amazon. Make sure you head on over and get your copies now! You won't regret it.

When Piper Morgan and her mom have to move, Piper is sad to leave her friends behind, but excited for the new adventures coming her way. Her mom is looking for the perfect place for her and Piper to settle down, and dives into a series of odd jobs.

Mom’s first job? An assistant to the head of the Big Top Circus. And Piper is excited to learn she will be a part of The Little Explorers, a group made up of the circus workers’ kids. They may be small in size, but they play a big part in the circus, as they kick-off the big elephant routine in the show.

But during Piper’s debut as a Little Explorer, her high kicks and pointed toes don’t go quite as planned—and after causing a dance disaster, she has to prove to everyone—especially queen of the Little Explorers, Lexie—that she belongs in the spotlight.

Piper and her mother take on another new adventure in the second book of the brand-new Piper Morgan series.

After saying good-bye to her circus friends, Piper Morgan and her mom are on the move again, this time returning to mom’s hometown and to Piper’s beloved grandmother’s house after Piper’s mom takes a job in the local elementary school principal’s office. Piper is excited for a new school and new friends—and is thrilled when she is made an “office helper.” But there is one girl who seems determined to prove she is a better helper than Piper—and she just so happens to be the principal’s daughter. Can Piper figure out how to handle being the new girl in town once more?

Stephanie Faris knew she wanted to be an author from a very young age. In fact, her mother often told her to stop reading so much and go outside and play with the other kids. After graduating from Middle Tennessee State University she somehow found herself working in information technology. But she never stopped writing. When she isn’t crafting fiction, Stephanie is indulging her gadget geek side by writing for online technology sites. Her work is regularly featured on a wide variety of blogs and websites, both under her own name and as a ghostwriter. She lives in Nashville with her husband, Neil.

Find out more at stephaniefaris.com

Enjoy!!!

Best to all,

Becca