Monday, January 20, 2014

Program helps teens, parents navigate tough issues

In today’s fast-paced, digital world it is more difficult than ever for young people to consistently make good choices. Movies and television, video games and social media mean teens are exposed to – and often influenced by – questionable behavior more frequently, and from an earlier age, than even their parents may realize.

CoxHealth’s experts recognize these dangers and have developed a program specifically for young people ages 12 and up and their parents or guardians. At the free “Risky Behaviors” workshop, they’ll learn about drug awareness, the dangers of distracted driving, healthy dating and much more.

“Young people’s lives can be incredibly complicated, and the pressures they face can make it hard to make good choices,” said Jason Martin, an injury outreach coordinator with CoxHealth. “With this program, we’re able to have an open, honest discussion about all the stuff they’re dealing with, and give them strategies for handling tough situations in the best way.”

“Risky Behaviors” will be Thursday, Jan. 23, from 6-8 p.m. in Foster Auditorium at Cox South, 3801 S. National. The workshop is free, but registration is required. Call 269-0920 for more information and to sign up.