7 Tips to Avoid Overindulging This Holiday Season

7 Tips to Avoid Overindulging This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and making cherished memories with loved ones. It’s an opportunity to revel in the warmth of festive gatherings and partake in the delightful traditions that mark this special time of year. However, amidst the sparkle and cheer, it’s common to encounter the temptation of overindulgence. Whether…

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‘Forest Friends’ Is Shaping Young Minds in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties

‘Forest Friends’ Is Shaping Young Minds in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties

By: Rikki Siegel, Preventionist The 2023-2024 winter season is off to a great start at Wellspring Center for Prevention. Preventionists are teaching all different programs in elementary, middle, and high schools throughout Middlesex and Monmouth Counties. I am so excited to be back at Wellspring after being on maternity leave and was able to jump…

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How Are Other Teen Parents Handling Substance Use?

How Are Other Teen Parents Handling Substance Use?

By Lizz Dinnigan, Preventionist As a teen growing up on Staten Island in the 80s, access to alcohol was limited. You might have snagged a forgotten, dusty bottle of Peach Schnapps from your parent’s liquor cabinet or found an older friend/sibling with ID. At the time, there was a gas station nicknamed “The Cottage” that…

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Navigate Your Wellness Journey With These Practical Tips for Success

Navigate Your Wellness Journey With These Practical Tips for Success

By Hazel Bridges, Contributing Writer Embarking on a wellness and self-care journey is a commendable endeavor that requires dedication and smart strategies in order to ensure success. By implementing a few actionable steps, you can achieve a healthier and happier you. In this article, courtesy of Wellspring Center for Prevention, we will explore effective ways…

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6 Ways To Establish Inclusive Learning Environments

6 Ways To Establish Inclusive Learning Environments

Inclusive classrooms promote a warm and welcoming environment for students, acting as a “home away from home.” An inclusive classroom can also help students develop safe friendships and look forward to their time in school. Discover several methods for creating this type of classroom below.  What are inclusive learning environments? An inclusive learning environment is…

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Protecting Seniors From Financial Scams

Protecting Seniors From Financial Scams

Elder financial fraud is a significant and growing problem in today’s society, where older adults are increasingly becoming targets for scammers. These scammers often view seniors as more vulnerable or assume they have accumulated wealth over their lifetime, making them attractive targets.  According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in 2021 alone, there were…

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The Dangers of Holiday Drinking: How to Stay Safe This Season

The Dangers of Holiday Drinking: How to Stay Safe This Season

With the increased amount of alcohol during the holiday season from November to January, the potential for relapse can feel overwhelming. The holidays evoke many feelings, including stress, anxiety, and loneliness. Those with alcohol use disorder can feel tempted to numb these feelings by having a drink, which can create a slippery slope. To avoid…

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Middle School Experimentation With Alcohol, Vaping, and Marijuana: What Parents Should Know

Middle School Experimentation With Alcohol, Vaping, and Marijuana: What Parents Should Know

Middle school years are fraught with change, growth, and experimentation. Recent data reveals a troubling trend: kids are trying alcohol, e-cigarettes, and cannabis at an increasingly young age. With the myriad health risks and potential for addiction associated with these substances, it’s vital for parents to be informed. Laurie Herrick, Middlesex County’s Regional Chronic Disease…

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