The Washington Informer: Health, Wellness & Nutrition Special Issue
With summer vacation ending, students are getting ready to return to the classroom, which includes back-to-school shopping and last-minute check-ups. As the new school year begins, it’s crucial for students to equip themselves with the tools necessary to protect their physical and mental health.
Youth wellness is vital not only for individual health and happiness but also for building a better community and society. Children, often seen as “the future,” play a key role in this process.
This back-to-school health special edition provides ways to prevent the spread of illnesses from the common cold to COVID-19 and offers resources to combat obesity and depression. It underscores the importance of prioritizing students’ physical and mental well-being, enabling them to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
We hope you enjoy this edition as much as we enjoyed creating it for you!
Read, Learn, Enjoy!
APA hosts mental health summit for D.C. teens
Dozens of teenagers from across the District gathered at Catholic University’s Pryzbyla Center for the second annual American Psychiatric Association (APA) Moore Equity in Mental Health Youth Summit on July 24. Hosted in partnership with the Marion Barry Youth Leadership Institute, the event aimed to educate and empower young people on mental wellness and conflict resolution strategies. The summit, led by APA’s Chief Diversity and Health Equity Dr. Regina S. James, highlighted the pressing need to address the growing youth mental health crisis and provide resources for both teens and their parents.
Preparing children for a healthy school year: Addressing vision health challenges
As children prepare to return to school, ensuring their vision health is crucial for their academic and social development. Dr. Janine Smith-Marshall, director of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Pediatric Ophthalmology at Howard University, emphasizes the importance of early and thorough eye exams to address common visual health issues in children. From uncorrected refractive error to challenging eye exams, this article delves into the challenges and solutions for maintaining optimal vision care for young learners.
Understanding scoliosis: Common questions answered by expert orthotist
Scoliosis, a spinal condition affecting millions worldwide, can present significant challenges and require early treatment, especially in children. Luke Stikeleather, founder of the National Scoliosis Center, sheds light on the various types, degrees, and strategies for managing scoliosis, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention. Discover how scoliosis can be managed and how it impacts the lives of those affected.
Encouraging physical activity: A vital step for youth health and well-being
As digital entertainment captivates the youth, the importance of physical activity remains paramount for their health and development. Kelsey Nelson, a sports journalist and vice president of the Washington Association of Black Journalists, emphasizes the need to balance screen time with outdoor activities. With childhood obesity and mental health concerns on the rise, initiatives like NFL Flag and programs at the Little Gym are paving the way for youth to stay active and engaged in sports.
