The Lariat Mental Health Issue, September 2019

MENTAL HEALTH

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Issue I, September 2019

mental health hotlines and resources Finding Treatment

PsychologyToday.com offers a national directory of therapists, psychiatrists, therapy groups and treatment facility options.

SAMHSA Treatment Locator provides referrals to low cost/sliding scale mental health care, substance abuse and dual diagnosis treatment.

Phone: 800-662-4357

Suicide And Crisis

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention provides referrals to support groups, mental health professionals, resources on loss and suicide prevention information.

Phone: 888-333-2377 The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides 24/7 crisis intervention, safety planning and information on domestic violence.

Phone: 800-799-7233 The Suicide Prevention Lifeline connects callers to trained crisis counselors 24/7. They also provide a chat function on their website.

Phone: 800-273-8255

Mental Health Conditions

Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) provides information on prevention, treatment and symptoms of anxiety, depression and related conditions.

Phone: 240-485-1001 Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) provides information and referrals on ADHD, including local support groups.

Phone: 800-233-4050 Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) provides information on bipolar disorder and depression, offers in-person and online support groups and forums.

Phone: 800-826-3632 International OCD Foundation provides information on OCD and treatment referrals.

Phone: 617-973-5801 National Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders (NCEED) provides up-to-date, reliable and evidence-based information about eating disorders.

Phone: 800-931-2237 Schizophrenia and Related Disorders Alliance of America (SARDAA) maintains the Schizophrenia Anonymous programs, which are self-help groups and are now available as toll free teleconferences.

Phone: 240-423-9432 Sidran Institute helps people understand, manage and treat trauma and dissociation; maintains a helpline for information and referrals.

Phone: 410-825-8888 TARA (Treatment and Research Advancements for Borderline Personality Disorder) offers a referral center for information, support, education and treatment options for BPD. Phone: 888-482-7227

All information courtesy of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

TABLE of CONTENTS NEWS

OPINIONS

FEATURES

ENTERTAINMENT

SPORTS

4 8 12 18 20

ON the COVER

4 See something, say something 5 No funding for mental health programs in schools 6 New district absence policy

8 Medicine for mental health 9 Misuse of mental health terms 10 The Baker Act is ineffective

12 Ms. Eileen and Ms. Moxie 14 HOPE Sunshine Club 15 Adam Avin 16 Emily Aaron, Lulu and Patches

18 Taylor Swift’s “Lover” review 18 BROCKHAMPTON’s “GINGER” review 19 “... And Others” review

20 Injuries affect mental health 21 Parents pushing kids too hard 22 Dancers’ body image

For the first issue of The Lariat of the 2019/2020 school year, our staff wanted to emphasize the importance of mental health, especially in a time when many teenagers are affected by a mental health condition.

The photo on the front cover was taken by Anabella Garcia, a new staff member. When reviewing photos for the editorial about taking prescribed medication to better your mental health (page 8), Print Editor-in-Chief Genna Nordling was inspired, and decided to play with possible designs in Adobe Illustrator.

STAFF LIST: Print Editor-in-Chief Genna Nordling Online Editor-in-Chief Abbie Tuschman Managing Editor Alexandra Sansone Head Editors Elena Valdez Joseph Sturgeon Sports Editor Kayla Gates General Editors Arielle Kraus Isabella Marcon Emma Huerta Staff Writers Victoria Martin Sofia Mendez Ryan Merard Emma Franz Julia Safrin Sasheen Joseph Chris Gomes Sandra Garcia Camila Fernandez Jaelyn Yeampierre Angelique King Alyssa Khan Jennifer Florez Sports Writers Kyleigh Sprigle Photographers Anabella Garcia Makinzi Burgs Illustrator Abby Ozrovitz Adviser Fallan Patterson

table of contents 3

SEE SOMETHING,

Say Something

A practice to keep communities safe In an era where there are more m a s s shootings in this nation than days passed this year (according to the Gun V i o l e n c e Archive), the nationwide phrase, “If you see something, say something” has more value than ever. It encourages students to speak up whenever they notice anything that seems suspicious and to report it to a trusted adult to keep themselves and their local community safe.

The “see something, say something” phrase was recently put to use in Broward County. On August 22, a student from Nova High School was arrested for threats made towards students in his school on Discord, a video game chat system.

The anonymous student made remarks about the pain he wanted to bring to his peers. Later, he said he wasn’t planning to do these horrific acts, but was just expressing how he felt at the moment.

Whether the student was serious about his comments or not, the police still took action. The Broward County Sheriff ’s Office (BSO) and school security stress the importance of reporting suspicious activity as soon as it is seen, even if it seems like a joke.

Even if a student is joking, making threats against a school will result in expulsion.

“Joking with friends about committing horrific acts is just unacceptable at this point,” 11th Grade Assistant Principal Robert Herzog said.

“Doing such things could possibly get people felonies, and there are countless examples in the media that prove that.”

Broward County has made efforts to assist in making this phrase more prevalent

4 news

throughout the district.

For example, during August of 2018, BSO launched a free mobile a p p called “SaferWatch,” where students are able to anonymously send reports of suspicious activity. Students and teachers can also receive alerts for their school if anything concerning is brought up.

It is not just students that can abide by “If you see something, say something,” but teachers as well. With most having years of experience under their belts, teachers may be able to spot concerning behavior that the average student can’t.

“As teachers, we have more responsibilities than just instructing our students,” physical education teacher Valarie Smith said. “With mental health being a major part of today’s society, we have to at least attempt to check on [students] whenever they seem down and see how we can address the situation.”

In communities across the nation, while people go about their day-today routines such as going to school or going grocery shopping, they can be on the lookout for signs of unusual activity. Putting this into practice may not prevent all terrible acts from happening, but it would minimize the chances of tragedy and help keep communities safe.

“Honestly, if every school’s student body watched over each other and were more aware of their surroundings like we should be, school could become a BY saferRYAN place,” MERARD junior Zackary Elbaz said.

Below: The SaferWatch app was created by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. With the app, students, teachers and parents can report suspicious activity in their area.

No hope for “Hope for Healing”

Mental health program proposed

by First Lady of Florida Casey DeSantis has no funding According to the National hasn’t been announced. But Alliance on Mental Health recently, the entire existence (NAMI), Florida is ranked 49 of the program is in question out of 50 states for funding due to financial concerns. mental health programs, As stated on the Florida s p e n d i ng governor's “[THE PROGRAM] slightly under website, “The $40 per person. g o v e r n o r ’s WOULD HAVE A This amount budget also GREAT IMPACT. is minuscule included $75 when compared OUR STUDENTS GO million for to Mississippi, the Mental THROUGH A LOT, the highestH e a l t h [AND] THEY ARE ranked state, Assistance which spends VERY STRESSED WITH A l l o c a t i o n nearly $110 per for Florida EVERYTHING THAT person on their schools. This mental health [GOES WITH] BEING A funding will programs. go directly TEENAGER.” Deeming this to school an important -RONALD ZICCARDI d i s t r i c t s issue, First to provide GUIDANCE DIRECTOR a d d i t i o n a l Lady of Florida Casey DeSantis m e n t a l proposed a new health services to students mandatory mental health in need.” However, this was curriculum for grades 6-12. announced on July 18, two Desantis’ new mental days after the approval from health initiative was approved the Florida Board of Education. unanimously by the Florida An article released by Board of Education on July 16. Orlando Weekly on August 19 But since then, no comment states, “School board member or official statement has been Angie Gallo confirmed it was released regarding further an unfunded mandate at the information about this program. Orange County legislative In addition to this, delegation in response to an official date as to when questions from Rep. Anna this curriculum would be Eskamani, D-Orlando.” In implemented into schools other words, it has been

confirmed that there is no funding for this program.

As part of her “Hope for Healing” campaign, DeSantis proposed this mental health instructional program with the goal of improving the safety and awareness of Florida students. This includes learning how to identify signs of mental illness and how to use proper communication skills with other students who may be having difficulties in their own lives.

The program outlines a fivehour minimum requirement of instruction of the curriculum, but there are no further details on whether this would be a separate course or integrated into a pre-existing course. “[The program] would have a great impact. Our students go through a lot, [and] they are very stressed with everything that [goes with] being a teenager,” Guidance Director Ronald Ziccardi said.

“So any kind of information that we can educate them [on] to help them be more aware that there’s support out there for them may be beneficial for all parties involved.”

This call for action regarding mental health has been DeSantis’ top priority since the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas

H i g h School (MSD) in 2018 and the suicides of two students in March of the following year.

As the year continues on, more information will be released in regards to the existence of this curriculum.

But as of now, funding is not being allocated for the program.

But at CCHS there are still ways for students to learn and educate themselves about mental health. Through the new peer counseling course, students can learn about mental health and how to help others that struggle with mental health issues.

“We are already learning about depression, we’re learning about anxiety, we’re learning about how to deal with conflict.

There’s a lot of self-awareness that we’re doing in the class because you can’t help others until you can help yourself,” guidance counselor Kimberly Lilly said. “Often times when you are trying to help others you need to be aware of your own challenges, you need to make sure you’re learning how to handle those so that you can model for your peers.”

BY SASHEEN JOSEPH

news 5

Taking new measures:

Broward County school board chooses to return to its original approach with absences When a student misses school, a back to its old guidelines because school parent must call the school to notify them board members believe that the policy of this absence, so it is excused. However, made in 2016 was not having much effect many parents work during the day and on unexcused absences. Many students are preoccupied with other things and are happy to get rid of the previous forget to call their child out sick. With absence guidelines because the new ones the new absence policy, Broward County give everyone an equal opportunity to students will not face repercussions receive credit for the work they do and for having an unexcused absence. don’t punish kids for missing school and During the summer of 2016, the not being able to excuse the absence.

School Board of “I don’t think students Broward County should face consequences that “[AN ABSENCE] implemented could academically hurt them,” SHOULDN’T a new absence junior Julian Smallcombe said.

AUTOMATICALLY policy, which “A lot of times, the reason for resulted in LEAD TO STUDENTS the [unexcused absence] is not students facing bad, and punishing everyone GETTING D’S AND consequences for what one group of students for unexcused POSSIBLY EVEN ZEROS may do doesn't seem right.” absences.

The The reason for the policy FOR UNEXCUSED major changes change in 2016 was to make of this policy students more conscious of the ABSENCES.” included students implications of skipping, as -JASON GOODSTEIN about 51% of absences during being able to receive up to PIONEER MIDDLE SCHOOL the 2015-2016 school year 60% off missed were unexcused. According CIVICS TEACHER to district data, the number of homework and 10% off tests unexcused absences had been taken late due to unexcused absences. gradually rising in years prior to 2016, Before this change, students had which alerted school board members the ability to make up missed work that a change had to be made soon. and receive full credit, regardless of Many of these unexcused absences the type of absence. Now, for the 2019- may have been students skipping classes.

2020 school year, the school board Though this policy punishes students who decided to return to these guidelines, skip school, it also hurts students whose giving students two full days to make up parents may forget to call in or fill out the work for any absence, excused or not. new form online when their child is absent.

This new change is the third time the “[An absence] shouldn't automatically district has changed its absence policy lead to students getting D’s and possibly in four years. The district is reverting even zeros for unexcused absences,”

6 news

Pioneer Middle School civics teacher Jason Goodstein said. “You have to look at the individual situation. If it is just a rare mishap from a good student then letting them make up the work seems ideal, but if it's consistent then it needs to be addressed and handled accordingly.”

Mental health days, frequently taken by well-intentioned students, also face consequences under the policy. Some students take mental health days in order to relieve stress when school seems too overwhelming. According to the district, this does not qualify as an excused absence, so parents with children who want to take a mental health day would have to lie about why their child is missing school that day.

“I don’t remember a time I let [Michael] stay home without being sick or some other reason that was necessary to miss school, but if he ever wanted to stay home just to keep himself stable mentally then I would understand,” junior Michael Rodriguez’s mother Cathy Rodriguez said. “The thought that I would have to lie about [Michael] taking a day off for his mental health, a very important aspect in life, so his grades won't be harmed doesn't sit right with me.”

Now, with the change in policy, a student who takes a mental health day will be able to receive full credit for any work they missed when they weren’t in school, allowing them to take a break without having their grades suffer.

BY RYAN MERARD

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8 editorial

MEDICATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH

You should take prescribed medication if it betters your mental health

When it comes to one’s mental health, sometimes talking to someone is simply not enough.

Therapy, although an essential and beneficial step in the road to recovery, cannot change the chemical imbalance that is present in the brains of sufferers of mental diseases and disorders.

Medication can stabilize one’s mood and regulate levels of important chemicals.

However, there is a heavy stigma surrounding any kind of pill prescribed for the mind.

There are many types of medications one can take.

Depending on the diagnosis of a patient, they may be prescribed a stimulant, depressant, antipsychotic or mood stabilizer.

Some of the most commonly prescribed medications are reuptake inhibitors, including are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications cause levels of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, to increase by blocking their reabsorption. These can be used to treat depressive disorders and, in some cases when accompanied by other medications, psychotic and mood disorders.

Those with Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are prescribed stimulants as well.

Adderall and Ritalin, the most common ADHD medications, target the central nervous system (CNS). These medications increase the available levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the CNS, which in turn speeds up brain activity,making focusing and complet ing tasks easier.

Depression, anxiety and ADHD are extremely common among adolescents. According to Healthline.com, 9% of children ages 3 to 17 report having ADHD. Over 3 million 12 to 17-year-olds have claimed that they experience depression and 7% have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, as reported by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

Although teenagers are still growing up, and parents might worry about the effects of medication on their development, it may be necessary to function in certain cases. When a disorder

begins to put a halt on daily life, it is considered severe.

Intervention and monitored medication can get a person back on their feet and to a point they will no longer need the medication.

Upon prescribing medication, most patients are told the end goal is going off of it. In a sense, the pills are a necessary evil for some to become okay again and reach a point of functionality and stability.

Many view it as another drug to abuse and become dependant on. The body will rely on these medications, and if they are not taken, the body will experience withdrawals. These medications are still considered drugs, and with this, there is potential to be abused, specifically with depressants such as Xanax and stimulants like Adderall.

Teenagers, and some adults, use medications unprescribed to help them cope with their emotions.

However, taking these medications recreationally is a temporary fix to a potentially permanent cause.

They cannot monitor how exactly they are affecting the body and mind without the presence of a doctor and they most likely do not understand how it works.

When it comes to medication, many teens feel as though they may need it, but they fear the potential repercussions or backlash that come with them. There is nothing shameful about taking medication for a mental health issue.

Like many things, it is a process of trial and error.

However, seldom is light shed on this challenging path to

navigate, as if there is something far too wrong with them for taking medicine.

Much like physical health, when one is sick they go to the doctor to see what is wrong with them.

Sometimes treatment requires antibiotics or other pills.

Mental health is no different and a disease of the mind is equally as debilitating at times. To leave these sicknesses untreated will only cause symptoms to worsen. Medication can offer the back the base-level health one needs to function and should not be so looked down upon.

BY ELENA VALDEZ Photo by Anabella Garcia

“Oh my god, I’m so OCD. I love color-coding.”

The prevalent misuse of mental health terms shows a need for greater education It’s difficult to go a whole day in high school without overhearing someone misuse a mental health term. Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder and psychological trauma— among countless other mental health issues— are frequently reduced to “quirky” behavior or used as a form of hyperbole.

While more people nowadays might be familiar with these psychological terms, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re more informed about their meanings.

Rather than promoting mental health awareness, the increased use— and misuse— of mental health terminology in casual conversations can perpetuate misconceptions about mental illnesses and invalidate the experiences of those who have them. The pervasiveness of this issue indicates a dire need for greater mental health education.

While people have been cracking jokes about “psychos” for decades, “dissociating” is a term that’s relatively new to the scene of relatable mental health humor.

Dissociating is often used by social media users, primarily on Twitter, as a synonym for “spacing out” and is even seen by some as a desirable experience. But daydreaming or getting lost in thought fall only on the mild side of the dissociation spectrum. Tweeting about dissociation like it’s a pastime shows a lack of awareness of those who suffer from involuntary dissociation and dissociative disorders. “[W]atching golden girls to dissociate from life's responsibilities what a time,” Twitter user claire4evr tweeted.

When one experiences a more severe form of dissociation, they may feel a loss of control over their own body or might even develop multiple personalities. Dissociative disorders often result from psychological trauma, such as chronic childhood abuse or military combat. The romanticization of a coping mechanism for trauma is not only hurtful to those who struggle with dissociative disorders, but shows a need for mental health awareness beyond the more common depression and anxiety disorders.

“My piano teacher is really bipolar.”

“Watching the last season of ‘Game of Thrones’ was an emotionally traumatizing experience.”

That isn’t to say that jokes about mental health can’t be helpful. In fact, some studies show that it can reduce mental health stigma. But using mental illness to show off a “quirky” personality isn’t humor, it’s just offensive. Actress Mara Wilson, who has become a mental health advocate since her early days playing “Matilda,” has pointed out the similarities between misunderstanding mental illnesses and physical illnesses. “.@katyperry If you have OCD because you like putting things in order, then my sneezing in the sun means I have lupus,” Wilson tweeted.

People laugh about alphabetizing books being “OCD,” but few joke about having fibromyalgia when their muscles are sore. Both are invisible illnesses. Both can be debilitating. Why is joking about one more acceptable than the other?

Often, the misuse of mental health terms doesn’t stem from bad intentions. It simply indicates a need for greater mental health awareness. And with terms like “schizo” and “PTSD” still being thrown around carelessly, mental health education must not only be more prevalent but should cover more mental illnesses. Most people understand that being sad once in a while doesn’t denote clinical depression.

Yet it still isn’t common knowledge that OCD is not an adjective nor a way to describe someone’s tidy habits.

Instead of attacking those on social media that are ignorant about mental illness, it would be more helpful to redirect them to informative articles or to use their misunderstanding as an opportunity for respectful and educational dialogue. And because jokes about mental illness have become so common among teenagers, a group that suffers from low treatment rates for mental disorders, high schools should play their part and mandate mental health education.

BY ABBIE TUSCHMAN

opinion 9

The Florida Baker Act 10 opinion

In 1971, the chairperson for the Mental Health Committee of Florida, Maxine Baker, proposed an act that would allow people in crisis to be committed to a psychiatric institution for 72 hours, offering immediate help to those who truly need it.

However, seldom is this actually the case. The Baker Act has an extremely high recidivism rate, meaning it’s not unlikely to be put under the act repeatedly following the first time. This faulty policy creates more problems than it solves.

It has been over 40 years since the Baker Act was set in place and throughout the years, issues with the act and rights it may inhibit have been brought to light and amendments have been made. However, the issue is not with the small details and fine print found within the act. The issue is the act itself.

For 72 hours, people under the Baker Act are taken to wellness centers or psychiatric hospitals where they must undergo a series of questioning and group activities in an attempt to not only diagnose them if there is no preexisting diagnosis, but also teach them coping skills and provide resources for when they are feeling unstable.

The screenings and psychological testing that occur throughout a patient’s stay may offer new insight into a patient’s psyche and aid in curating a treatment plan, but this does not give a definite diagnosis. Three days are not enough to properly assess one’s entire life and mental state. It may make the patient feel even more out of control and at a loss for hope, which is counterproductive to helping them get better in the first place.

To be Baker Acted, an individual must meet one of three criteria as laid out by the act. The first requirement is simply that there is a reason to believe a person is mentally ill and it may impair their ability to function and/or perceive reality.

Because of this impairment, they most likely refuse voluntary help or are unable to determine when they need help, which is the second criterion they must meet. The third and final requirement states that the individual may cause harm to themselves or others.

If a Baker Act situation was to arise here in Broward, the county’s Youth Emergency Services (YES) team would be amongst the first people contacted. The YES are a team of trained professionals who provide emergency mobile therapeutic and crisis intervention within the school system and have the authority to initiate a Baker Act on a student seemingly at risk. The YES team works to put the act in motion and get the student the immediate help they need.

Unfortunately, outside of Broward County, the first responders to the people in crisis are predominantly police officers, firefighters, teachers and others who are not trained to deal with mental health issues.

In the midst of deciding if one should be involuntarily taken to an institution for 72 hours, the delicacy of the situation is not always handled correctly. There is so much fragility in these moments that it can be traumatic to those experiencing it.

An individual on the verge of suicide cannot be handled as if they are being arrested or interrogated.

Three ineffective days of institutionalization situations require But the common

These sympathy and patience, which is why the responders should be educated and well-experienced professional psychologists.

When trying to save the life of someone at risk, it’s vital to understand their needs and where they are coming from.

There has been a nearly 64% increase in the number of people Baker Acted over the past decade. Mental health awareness and acceptance have increased as well, but as shown by the statistics, this high number raises questions.

How effective is the Baker Act if the number of individuals committed keeps growing?

It seems that those in need of help are just being dumped into these facilities for a long weekend and then thrown back out on the street. Adolescents are among the most affected by this trip to a mental health facility.

By Baker Acting a student, the school is removing them from campus and thus, believes they are decreasing the potential for harm occurring. Students may come to their school’s mental health providers and claim they are having urges to harm themselves and sometimes, most frighteningly, others. The school is then legally required to put a Baker Act on the student once these words are heard.

Words such as these are not always concrete. Someone may joke about wanting to die without genuinely meaning it.

Members of society, especially today’s teenagers, are casually suicidal and differentiating between those who actually mean it and those who are just saying it as a form of escapism is challenging.

philosophy is that it’s better to be safe than sorry. Because of this, Baker Act rates have increased and the number of suicidal teens keeps growing.

Sending teens away to a facility for 72 hours and then providing little to no resources afterward is not the help they need.

Florida’s mental health epidemic has reached the point of crisis with so many cases. However, it remains 49th in the United States for mental healthcare funding and access. There is no money to support the Baker Act or any other type of governmentprovided treatment.

Insurance may cover the cost for some, as hospitals do accept insurance and other forms of third party payment, such as the parent or guardian.

To stay in the facility, it is roughly 300 dollars per day committed and for those lacking basic health insurance, a Baker Act is an expensive alternative to other free mental health services.

If Florida wants to help its mentally unwell citizens, more money must be allocated to the right types of services, those more accessible and individually focused. No two cases are the same and, when one’s mental health is on the line, they cannot be treated as though they are.

There is no end-all-be-all cure for mental illness. The only thing society can continue to do is raise awareness and increase acceptance. Using the same onesize-fits-all solution for different mental illnesses is ineffective.

The Baker Act is an outdated legal model that admits more patients than it can cure.

BY ELENA VALDEZ

ALL ABOUT

THE BAKER ACT The Baker Act is a Florida law that allows the involuntary institutionalization of people by their family if they believe they are in need of emergency mental health services and tempory detention.

205,781 350 46.87% 36,078 36 times In the 2017/2018 fiscal year there were

involuntary examinations via the Baker Act and

of them were examinations on children. www.usf.edu

nearly people

From 2004 to 2013

From 2014 to 2017, the suicide rate of children in Broward County increased by

were involuntarily committed or more per person.

jacksonville.com

Criteria in order to be "Baker Acted"

1.

2.

3.

ufhealth.org

There is reason to believe that he or she is mentally ill.

www.usf.edu

In the 2017/2018 fiscal year there were

Because of his or her mental illness the person has refused voluntary examination or is unable to determine whether examination is necessary

Without care or treatment, the person is likely to suffer from neglect or there is substantial likelihood that without care or treatment the person will cause serious bodily harm to self or others in the near future, as evidenced by recent behavior www.usf.edu

14,580 involuntary examinations in Broward County www.usf.edu

www.thelariatonline.com

section #

Ms. Moxie and M THE CCHS MENTAL HEALTH TEAM IS THERE TO LISTEN W Even amid all the noise of high school life, Cowboys can rest assured that there will always be someone who’s all ears when they need it. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), "1 in 5 children ages 13-18 have or will have a serious mental illness." Youth is generally considered to be the most relaxed and enjoyable period of life before facing adulthood. But in recent years, Generation Z— those born between 1995 and 2015— has been feeling more stressed than ever.

So where should struggling students go when their guidance counselors are busy, and they feel they can’t turn to a parent or guardian? Those at CCHS should direct their attention to none other than Ms. Eileen NissmanStern and Ms. Shantelle Moxie.

Students can stop by during

lunch or receive a pass to visit during their personalization period. A teacher can call to send them down if necessary and students can also make appointments in person or through an email.

If Ms. Moxie and Ms. Eileen are in a session when you come to their door, they will schedule another time to meet with you if you decide not to wait outside.

Ms. Moxie advises students to stick a note under the door, so she is aware someone is waiting.

Both speak with a calm, soothing voice and wear radiant smiles when addressing their students. They create an inclusive and judgment-free environment for all students who choose to visit them.

Coming from a long line of educators, Ms. Eileen claims that initially, she was "running as

Ms. Eileen attended Florida State University,

Photos by Alexandra Sansone

Ms. Moxie’s office is located just beside the front desk.

Here is a note students in need of a session with Ms. Moxie can slide under the door to let her know they are waiting if she is in a meeting.

ask her about it!

This is Ms. Eileen’s office number.

Ms. Eileen will post these notes on her door depending on where she is for the time being.

If she will not be in her office, expect to see this sign.

12 centerspread

ROOM TOUR! far away from education" as she could. Eventually, she interned with Broward County and was hired immediately after her program ended. Having worked for Broward County for over 30 years, Ms. Eileen has worked at CCHS as a school social worker for almost seven years.

"My door is open to whoever needs to come here," Ms. Eileen said. "[Everyone at this] school is my student."

Her door is located at the end of the hallway opposite of your guidance counselors in the guidance wing. Ms. Moxie, CCHS's family counselor, is located next to the front desk in the main office.

Ms. Moxie, having operated in social work for the past 22 years, has always wanted to work with children. New this year to CCHS, she has expressed that she wants every student to feel welcome to her services.

"I help any student with any kind of problem," Ms. Moxie said. "That can be anything from stressing about a test or a class or a conflict with a teacher or another student or issues at home."

Both Ms. Moxie and Ms. Eileen operate under strict confidentiality laws, meaning anything said during sessions with them cannot be shared with teachers, other

Ms. Eileen WHEN YOU NEED TO TALK Here, students, parents and anyone else who needs to speak with Ms. Moxie can wait until she is available to speak with them.

counselors, students or parents.

"Everything is confidential, so I don't share anything with parents, teachers, guidance counselors, nobody." Ms. Moxie said.

"Everything is, by law, confidential unless I have concerns that [a student] is going to hurt themselves or hurt others or someone is hurting them. Then I have to report it to the proper authorities."

Ms. Moxie can have up to three sessions with a student without notifying their parents or guardians. After three sessions, students are still welcome to sit down with her, but parental permission and signed paperwork are required.

Ms. Eileen operates a bit more informally and functions similarly to a guidance counselor in the sense that she can meet with students numerous times without notifying home.

However, if a student is frequently visiting, she will ask permission to call home to let parents know that they are meeting.

"My office is a place that is inclusive, anybody can come here with any concern," Ms. Eileen said. "It's a place where they can calm down, where they can receive whatever I am capable of giving them.”

At the end of the interview I conducted for this article, both women took to questioning me about my well-being, and when I left I felt better despite having talked the least out of everyone there. And out of everything that was said, one thing was made explicitly clear— if you are feeling stressed out for any reason, find someone to talk to. Whether it’s a trusted adult at school, or someone else, the best way to go through something is with a support system around you.

Also new to the school is school psychologist Stephanie Fox Nohrden who was introduced to the CCHS staff on the first Professional Study Day of the year and is available to speak to students on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

BY ALEXANDRA SANSONE

mental health team

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Helping overcome problems effectively H O P E S u n s h i n e C l u b s t r i v e s t o s p re a d a w a re n e s s a b o u t t e e n s ’ m e n t a l h e a l t h

Traditionally, high school clubs are centered around career interests, hobbies or academics.

Cooper City High’s HOPE Sunshine club deviates from this standard— it focuses on matters such as mental health, suicide prevention and substance abuse.

The club, which has branches in several schools across Broward County, was started by the Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention (FISP), a non-profit organization striving to spread mental health awareness.

“We started the HOPE club during the 2015-16 school year,” former sponsor Danielle Ramirez said. “The club was started for students to talk about hard topics such as suicide prevention, drug and alcohol abuse, bullying and whatever other topics students want to discuss.”

Ramirez, who was the sponsor of HOPE club since it reached CCHS, moved to Colorado after the 2018-19 school year.

Kimberly Lilly, guidance counselor and peer counseling teacher, is stepping in as the new sponsor of the club for the 2019-20 school year, and what she hopes is many years to come.

“Ramirez was the HOPE

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club sponsor last year, and I watched the club do amazing things,” Lilly said.

“They were very active, and the students were very engaged. I saw a level of excitement in helping others with mental health awareness and providing support. When she left, I wanted to carry that on. I didn’t want [HOPE club] to be without anyone that was passionate like she was.”

Mental illness in adolescents is an issue nationwide, but in Florida, the problem seems to be larger than usual. Access to mental healthcare in Florida is relatively low compared to other states, as the state is ranked 44th in the nation.

To spread mental health awareness at CCHS, HOPE club holds biweekly meetings, typically consisting of heartfelt discussions between members on topics such as friendship, loss and stress.

“Most of the time, the topics and our discussions are on pretty heavy subjects so we try to lighten the mood,” club president Brandaly Mora said. “In the end, our main goal is to educate [members] on the topic and have them feeling like they can come to us for anything they need.”

Since the topics of the g r o u p discussions are typically sensitive, some information shared can call

for the involvement of higher authority figures in order for certain situations to be handled properly.

“Student safety is always one of our highest, if not the highest concern [the club] has,” secretary Matthew Milotskis said. “If someone shares something that might end with them or others being hurt, we are required to share it with our sponsor and they will deal with it from there.”

Outside of meetings and group discussions, HOPE club hosts events and fundraisers throughout the school year.

“Last year, we went to a farm called HAPPI Farm and volunteered to help take care of the animals there, which was a lot of fun,” Milotskis said. “We also did the FISP Annual HOPE Walk, which is a yearly walk to show awareness for suicide and donate to causes that help teens overcome the stigma of mental health and suicide.”

One particular event that HOPE club has hosted is the Side Walk Talk movement, an initiative inspired by the movie “Listen”, in which the members, playing the role of the ‘listener,’ would walk side-by-side with another person and without providing feedback, listen to them speak.

This event took place in s e v e r a l a r e a s —

outdoor m a r k e t s , s i d e w a l k s , shopping malls and other busy areas.

“We want to make sure that everybody in our school knows they can count on us,” Mora said.

For this upcoming school year, HOPE club plans to continue their fundraisers and host more on-campus events. They plan on partaking in the “Hugs for HOPE Hug-AThon,” an event organized by FISP that spreads awareness about suicide prevention and the facts around it.

“We want to try and get people from Broward Health, or people from FISP itself [to] come and talk about mental health and the stigma around it,” Milotskis said. “Since it’s new to the school, it’ll definitely take a lot of planning to make sure it’s able to be done this year.”

BY JOSEPH STURGEON Photos courtesy of Brandaly Mora and HOPE Sunshine club.

Television, TED Talks and teaching

ADAM AVIN CHANGES THE FUTURE THROUGH MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION

Above: Sophomore Adam Avin presents his TED Talk about Wuf Shanti at the TEDxYouth “Making a Scene” event in Kentucky.

Photo courtesy of TEDxYouth

After coming home from art class one day, 10-year-old Adam Avin showed his mom a picture he drew of Wuf Shanti, a dog character he had created. The pictures Avin drew of Wuf Shanti did not just hang on the refrigerator, but helped to turn Avin into an author and founder of a non-profit organization.

After creating his character, Avin— with the help of his mother— wrote the book “My Great-Granddog was a Yoga Instructor” to honor his then recently deceased great-grandfather.

“My great-grandpa passed away and I wanted to do something to honor him because he was a very mindful person, a yogi at heart, even though he really didn’t do any yoga,” Avin said. “I showed my mom the dog and she really loved it, so we took my grandpa’s mantras [and] positive messages, and wrote the first book.”

With the goal of teaching kids mindfulness and social-emotional learning, Avin continued to expand Wuf Shanti and created his non-profit organization with the same name. Through fun and games, kids can learn relaxation and happiness techniques, breathing exercises and how to treat others with kindness.

Now a sophomore, Avin and his organization have grown significantly in the past 5 years. Wuf Shanti reaches across the world to children aged 3–10 through multiple books, an app and videos that air on the local PBS station as well as the Children’s Hospital Network. While the heart and soul of Wuf Shanti is educating children, Avin decided to branch out and created a separate curriculum for teens and tweens to learn important skills as well.

In February, Avin and Wuf Shanti held the inaugural Mindful Kids Peace Summit, a five-day online summit that focuses on diversity, inclusion, communication, antibullying, mindfulness and social-emotional

learning. Avin interviewed experts and had for the presentation, most of which were them speak on these topics. Avin and his spent memorizing what he was going to say organization were already working on making and practicing with the PowerPoint. But a curriculum for older participants, but after when Avin’s not preparing for a TED Talk, the events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High he is still a fairly busy person, as he is trying School (MSD), he felt even more determined to balance school, homework, clubs, sports to help those in and daily life with his Wuf Shanti their teenage years. duties which include developing “WE WANT TO “If we can help an app, making videos, visiting teens, even if we can TEACH THESE KIDS hospitals and schools, conducting help younger kids, interviews and publishing books.

AND TEENS HOW hopefully nothing Even with help, Avin’s duties like MSD will happen TO BE EMPATHETIC can become a little overwhelming. again,” Avin said.

To combat the pressure and stress, ADULTS WHO “According to the Avin follows his own tips for New York Times, mindfulness and mental health.

SOLVE THEIR 70% of teens say that “The advice I give to everyone is if PROBLEMS IN mental health issues you can just try, take five minutes out are the number one of your day to just relax, do something BETTER, MORE problem they face. So, you like and breathe,” Avin said. “You PRODUCTIVE by [introducing] the can just lie on the couch watching Mindful Kids Peace WAYS, WITHOUT TV [and] believe in getting better.”

Summit and reaching Mindfulness, mental health and teens, hopefully well-being are all very important VIOLENCE.” mental health issues to Avin, and he hopes that by -ADAM AVIN spreading this information to people will not be the [main] problem they face.” while they are young, it can have SOPHOMORE a positive influence on the future.

After the success of his summit, “We want to teach these kids and drawing in over 7 million viewers, Avin was teens how to be empathetic adults who solve invited to do a TED Talk at the TEDxYouth their problems in better, more productive event in Kentucky. The theme of the event ways, without violence,” Avin said. “I know was “Making a Scene” and highlighted it’s a big issue and hopefully I’m spreading young people that were using their voices the word and other people [will] soon catch to make a positive change in the world. on, because if we learn to cope with our “Adam was amazing, he put his mind to emotions now, it will help us later in life.” learning [the presentation], practiced every Dog character or not, Avin is making a day and was incredible,” Adam’s mother Marni huge impact on the youth of the world through Becker-Avin said. “I was so proud of him, and the material he produces through Wuf Shanti.

I’m happy for him that all his hard work is paying off. This was a huge opportunity because BY GENNA NORDLING his message is reaching so many…people.”

It took Avin about six weeks to prepare features 15

Spreading paws-itivity with Lulu and Patches

EMILY AARON AND HER PETS’ PASSION FOR HELPING THOSE IN NEED Mental health has become a very important topic in today’s society. It is not unusual to see therapy dogs out in public, working with those in need.

However, it is not so common to see a therapy pig providing individuals with emotional support. CCHS junior Emily Aaron has both of these pets and has trained them, alongside her mother, to work with

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those who need them most.

Lulu, Emily Aaron’s threelegged greyhound, has been a therapy dog for the past 5 years.

She suffered an abusive past, but overcame these obstacles to become the courageous and caring dog she is today.

“I adopted Lulu myself and then I taught her commands like stay, come here and go over there,” Emily Aaron said. “We

had to make sure that she was okay in a hospital setting or a school setting, because we take her to many different places, so I just had to practice with her and make sure she felt very comfortable in those situations.”

Emily Aaron is part of the organization Canine Assisted Therapy Inc. (CAT), for which her and Lulu have gone to a variety of places to help those in

need. Following the tragedy that occured at Marjory Stoneman Douglas (MSD) High School in February 2018, Emily Aaron and Lulu headed to the school to provide support for all students affected by this horrific event.

“CAT reached out to us and asked for dogs, and at first, I was kind of nervous because [a tragedy] just happened at that school,” Emily Aaron said.

Photos by Anabella Garcia

Patches

“It was overwhelming [at the around. The countless selfies beginning], because we would and piggy kisses have helped just go to any room that had so many forget the pain they someone who had been through are feeling and help them heal.” s om e t h i ng , T h e “PATCHES watched impact an someone die animal can DEFINITELY BRINGS or was in the SMILES TO EVERYONE have on an building. It individual is HE IS AROUND. THE [was] like remarkable.

COUNTLESS SELFIES a family The presence because you of both AND PIGGY KISSES would see the Pa t c h e s HAVE HELPED SO MANY same group and Lulu FORGET THE PAIN THEY can and has over and over again, ARE FEELING AND HELP truly made so it became a difference THEM HEAL.” such a nice in the lives -TIFFANY AARON of environment many. f o r Patches, EMILY AARON’S MOTHER ever ybody.” specifically, Emily has made one Aaron does not work with Lulu MSD student want to come to alone. Her mother, Tiffany school to spend time with him.

Aaron, accompanies her and “There is one particular Lulu as Emily is under the student who legal age to volunteer alone. In has had a very addition to Lulu, they have a difficult time pet pig, Patches, who is also a leaving her home certified therapy animal. Patches and socializing was trained by Mrs. Aaron, after the events and has also been to MSD. at MSD,” Mrs. “I decided to train Aaron said.

Patches to be a therapy pig “When she after watching Emily and knows she will Lulu bring such happiness to see Patches, she the people they would come has something to in contact with,” Mrs. Aaron look forward to. said. “Patches definitely brings Her mom is so smiles to everyone he is thankful because

she said it’s difficult watching her daughter struggle every single day, and to see her smile and look forward to something makes them so thankful.”

Many times, individuals can be confused by the difference between a service animal and a therapy animal.

Both Lulu and Patches are therapy animals, meaning they are trained to interact with a variety of individuals in need.

Service animals are only trained to work with one individual and tend to their needs specifically.

“Dogs have an inherent desire to work and to please.

They enjoy having a job,” Executive Director/CEO of CAT Courtney Ford Trzcinski said. said. “When it is time to put on their therapy vest and go to visit a hospital, they become excited and happy. Not

only does pet therapy benefit humans, but also is beneficial for dogs. When a human pets a dog, the levels of ‘feel-good’ hormones in dogs rise, just as they do when a human spends time with a dog. So it is a win-win situation for all.”

Helping others through animal therapy is a passion of Emily Aaron’s that truly brings her joy. Lulu and Patches have become a significant part of many individuals’ lives and have made those who suffer from mental illness feel better, even if it is just for a moment.

“I am not just doing it for service hours or to look good, I genuinely am doing it because it’s what’s in my heart and I love it,” Emily Aaron said.

BY ARIELLE KRAUS

Lulu features 17

Love for“Lover”

TAYLOR SWIFT’S SEVENTH STUDIO ALBUM IS NO. 1 ON THE CHARTS, AND IN OUR HEARTS How does one explain the talent that is Taylor Swift? It goes without saying that over the years, Swift has amassed a large following of loyal “Swifties” and a seemingly endless list of achievements. The pop icon has succeeded yet again, managing to create another batch of hits on her recent album “Lover.”

Gone are the dark brooding tracks of Swift’s last album, “reputation,” and here now is the sugary, sweet, cotton candy world of her latest and greatest body of work. But don’t be fooled. Despite its glittery exterior, the contents of “Lover” are anything but lacking in terms of depth and meaning.

“Lover” shines a refreshing light into Swift’s brain and brings back the vulnerability the pop star is known for pouring into her work. It’s hard to pick just a few stand-out pieces to

rave about. Each song can hold its own outside the context of the album, yet still manages to fit cohesively together as a unit. The lyrics are quippy and the production is top-notch.

Each song has you dancing around, screaming or crying.

Love is the overarching connection each piece shares, something expected given the album title. But it differs from the story of the perfect couple that Swift was expected to sell. Love is discussed from all angles— from the awestruck feeling one gets when crushing on someone, to the crushing devastation of having to say goodbye to someone you love because it just didn’t work out.

With the discussion of love, Swift subtly approaches more serious topics. Mental health motifs can be picked up in her lyrical composition. The

first track, “I Forgot That You Existed,” is the perfect example of this. While serving as a segue from the combative nature of “reputation,” it is a universal bop for moving on from someone who drained you of all of your affection and energy.

Track five, “The Archer,” frequently repeats phrases in a manner that hints at the anxiety of being vulnerable and having people “see right through” you. “Cruel Summer” first comes off as an overly simplistic pop song but, after a closer listen, it’s revealed that it addresses the harm of hiding your true self from the one person who is meant to see it. The heartbreaking “Soon You’ll Get Better” featuring the Dixie Chicks tells the story of having to watch a loved one suffer from a horrible sickness.

The album’s songs are

applicable to any relationship, romantic or not, which is perhaps one of the most beautiful things about “Lover.”

Though this is coming from a girl who has been listening to Ms. Swift since her teardrops landed on her guitar in the early 2000s, “Lover” is one of the best albums I’ve heard in a while.

It’s simplicity in the best form.

Swift stays true to the creativity that sets her apart from other artists but doesn’t overdo it with unnecessary metaphors. Swift makes her intentions clear and in doing so, she allows her work to resonate with the masses.

Given this, it can just be hoped that “Lover” is only the next chapter in her catalog and not the finale.

BY ALEXANDRA SANSONE

“Take the odds, I’ll keep dreaming” HIP-HOP BOY BAND BROCKHAMPTON RELEASES THEIR FIFTH STUDIO ALBUM “GINGER” On August 23, self-proclaimed boy band BROCKHAMPTON released their highly-anticipated fifth studio album, “GINGER.” This project came after their 2018 album “iridescence,” which reached no.

1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart.

Standing at 44 minutes, “GINGER” contains a total of 12 tracks full of grievances, mental health issues and clever bars, qualities BROCKHAMPTON never hesitates to put forth in their music. Although the themes of internal struggles and self-reconciliation are often regurgitated in their music, “GINGER” provides a shift in BROCKHAMPTON’s narrative, seemingly distinct from past projects.

Specifically, the lyrics in “GINGER” provide a slightly more optimistic theme, sharing both the depths of the members’ main anxieties as well as their coping mechanisms.

This is especially notable in guest artist Deb Never’s chorus in “NO HALO,” as she sings the words “I’m sure I’ll find it,” along with band vocalist Matt Champion. The echoing of these words throughout the song provides a sense of hope for listeners after previously

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hearing each member of BROCKHAMPTON expressing their fears and troubles.

Addressing mental health issues— primarily depression and anxiety— is not new to the BROCKHAMPTON discography, yet “GINGER” provides a different perspective on these raw feelings and using high spirits to combat them, rather than hiding them under a facade.

Both the songs “HEAVEN BELONGS TO YOU” and “IF YOU PRAY RIGHT” reference this nondenominational spirituality, but vocalists Dom McLennon and Kevin Abstract also display this perfectly throughout various verses on the record. The spiritualistic ideology of BROCKHAMPTON really shines during McLennon’s multiple allusions in “IF YOU PRAY RIGHT.” These significant themes of the record are almost perfectly executed by the members of BROCKHAMPTON, both through production and lyrics, making a cohesive record. The unique, almost Hispanic-inspired beat of “BOY BYE” and the sweet guitar in “SUGAR” showcase

the great talent of BROCKHAMPTON. The vocalists on these tracks also poured their emotion into the instrumentals.

Although not all of the tracks on “GINGER” showed the best of each member, some songs could be considered among the best the boy band has released. One such song is “DEARLY DEPARTED,” which never fails to give one chills with its beautiful instrumental and emotional lines. McLennon’s final verse about ex-member Ameer Vann’s unforgivable conduct towards him and his friend, followed by the sound of McLennon slamming the studio door in anger, leaves listeners with nothing but pure emotion.

All in all, BROCKHAMPTON’s “GINGER” can easily be deemed one of the best projects released in 2019 thus far, due to its focus on internal struggles and mental health. Although some songs lack consistency in lyrical style and overall quality, the album’s cohesiveness and great handful of tracks contribute to its beauty.

BY EMMA HUERTA

Photos comply with fair use standards.

A STRONG START

The amazing storytelling in “...And Others” shows this year is full of promise for the CCHS Thespians For one night only, the CCHS Thespians ruled the stage in their production of “... And Others” by Dennis Bush. The 30-minute show told the story of a girl with dissociative identity disorder, Amanda, recounting the traumatic event that had caused her to begin dissociating from reality and her identity.

With such a sensitive and complex topic, the story had to be told accurately and clearly to the audience for the show to make sense. Luckily, the Thespians are stellar storytellers and all of the spectacular elements of “... And Others” came together and perfectly expressed the message the show was telling.

The acting in this show was incredible. The first lines of the show, spoken by Gabriela Phillips (playing the lead character, Amanda), were delivered with such strong emotion and passion, automatically setting the tone for the rest of the show.

The rest of the cast’s acting was also spot on. The actors truly embodied their characters, delivering their lines in a way that made it easier to tell which facets of Amanda’s identity they were playing.

The set design, though simple, was incredibly important to the storytelling in the show. The characters are the most crucial part of the story, so an extravagant set was not necessary. The setting of the actual story was told through the characters’ accounts of what was happening, so the simple set was actually beneficial to the show as a whole.

Costumes and makeup also served to highlight the differences in the characters, as Amanda was the only character in street clothes, but her different identities were adorned in black with splatters of color painted on their faces and hands.

This simple approach to the look of the characters allowed their personalities to shine, making it easier for the audience to understand that these characters are just the result of dissociative identity disorder, not actual people.

Though all of the actors were amazing, the lighting was one of the main stars of the show. When a new character would speak, the lights would change color, matching the makeup of who was speaking or reflecting the tone of the dialogue as a whole. It added an interesting and dynamic element to the production that made it very entertaining.

Those who have been to past Thespians shows would know that technical difficulties— particularly sound difficulties— are not uncommon.

However, in this production, there were no technical difficulties and the sound was clear throughout the show. “... And Others” was equally impressive as it was entertaining, since it was completely student-produced.

The show had a student director (Rylee

Photos by Alexandra Sansone Berger), composer (Dustin Symonette), stage manager (Christina Caride) and lighting designer (Katie Behr) who all deserve the same amount of praise as the amazing talent that was on stage.

Though it was not a part of the show, after curtain call, the new Thespians sponsor and troupe director Lucia Deus thanked everyone for coming to the show and gave all of the seniors involved in the production a rose as a celebration for their final first show of the year.

The Thespians have truly outdone themselves with this production and it shows that they have a promising year ahead. With amazing acting, lighting, makeup, costumes and set design, the storytelling in “... And Others” was flawless and a great start to the school year.

BY GENNA NORDLING

A LASTING IMPACT HOW INJURIES AFFECT AN ATHLETE’S MENTAL HEALTH

Injuries are a nearly inevitable aspect the world. However, her career was briefly of athletic participation. Intense gameplay put on hold due to a severe injury last year. often requires an athlete to retire to the Lageyre suffered from a partially torn sidelines for recovery. However, few medial collateral ligament (MCL), which put truly understand the lengths at which an her on the bench for three months. During this injury impacts an individual. Along with time, Lageyre was incapable of participating the physical challenges that accompany in any form of training or competition. Her a severe injury, athletes face obstacles inability to play took a toll on her emotions, when it comes to their mental health. as Lageyre was isolated from her sport.

When considering an injury, recovery “It was very difficult being away from can be a long and daunting task for any the sport that I love, but the injury taught individual. Patients are forced to set me to not take anything for granted,” aside their regular routines and focus on Lageyre said. “You never realize how much healing. While this process can evoke you love something until it is taken away.” emotion from practically anyone, these CCHS’s athletic trainer, Valarie Smith, Photos by Anabella Garcia feelings are amplified for many athletes. has found that Lageyre’s experience is not an Research has highlighted many isolated incident. Smith works with student- benefits of playing a sport is a harmful psychological factors that are common athletes on a regular basis, helping them practice. Smith stresses the importance for athletes to experience once injured: with any medical concerns they may have. of putting health above the desire to play.

An athlete’s adherence to their recovery feelings of isolation, fear of re-injury, However, she has learned that treatment is plan is also vital to their improvement. frustration, anger and tension. These In fact, studies have found that an emotions can be tied to the loss of athlete’s behavior during healing identity many athletes endure when can influence the outcome of a sitting on the bench. The boost in rehabilitation program. A lack of self-esteem supplied by sports is motivation to heal an injury will surrendered during an injury, leaving prevent any growth for an athlete. the individual to cope emotionally.

“Athlete compliance with their For some student-athletes, the rehabilitation protocol is also a huge psychological response to an injury make or break for the timeline of can trigger serious mental health their return to play,” Smith said. issues such as depression, anxiety, “If an athlete is supposed to come eating disorders and substance daily for treatment and rehab, and abuse. If their career as an athlete is only shows up twice a week, their threatened, the individual may be at progress will absolutely be delayed.” a greater risk of emotional distress. Above: To assist athletic trainer Valarie Smith, Despite the issues she has This idea is prevalent within the observed, Smith shares that this community, as young athletes struggle there are seven girls that make up a team of is not a usual occurrence when it to meet the physical and emotional athletic training assistants. These girls help comes to treating injuries around needs of their injuries. For students Smith by icing and taping injuries and ensure campus. In fact, most students are who spend the majority of their time able to undergo a healthy recovery, on the playing field, sitting out can football players stay hydrated during games. so long as they take any and all feel just as painful emotionally as the necessary steps to avoid further harm. injury itself. As a result, recovery becomes a not always an easy experience for students.

“The mental toll an athlete will go second thought for many of these athletes.

“I have experienced many athletes One such case is that of sophomore who just don’t report injuries because of through will depend on the severity of Carina Lageyre. As a student-athlete, Lageyre the fear of being held out of competition,” the injury, their support system of friends has seen her fair share of injuries. However, Smith said. “I try to tell all the kids my and family and their belief in themselves she notes that her most recent experience goal is to keep them playing, but it is [that] they can get better and return to had a substantial impact on her mental state. also my job as the athletic trainer to keep competition,” Smith said. “Staying positive Lageyre plays soccer for the United their best interests and health in mind.” through the healing and rehabilitation States women’s national team. She spends The ambition Smith witnesses may process is a huge aspect and will play the majority of her time training for matches result in further harm to the athlete. Resisting a major role in the athlete's recovery.” and participating in tournaments across the body’s physical needs for the emotional BY KAYLA GATES

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Take it to the limit: PARENTS PUSHING KIDS TOO HARD IN SPORTS HAS DAMAGING EFFECTS There is a difference between encouraging kids and pushing them too hard. When children participate in a sport, it is difficult for parents or coaches to find a balance between the two. Pressuring kids in sports can be damaging to a child both mentally and physically.

Pushing kids past their limits can negatively impact their emotional development and damage the parent-child bond. Children with a strong internal drive may thrive in competition, but the pressure can be too much for others.

Players need to have an innate desire to play.

Parents and coaches who push too hard, too young can easily wipe out a child’s motivation to play. One of the worst things that a person can do to an athlete is to make them hate their preferred sport. However, that is exactly what all the pressure can do.

“I wanted to quit when I was younger because of how hard my parents were on me, but they only wanted me to get better,” junior and softball player Kylie Bright said.

“Multiple people I know quit because they hated it and their parents forced them to play.”

Burnout is the exhaustion of physical or emotional strength or motivation, usually as a result of prolonged stress or frustration, and is now considered a mental disorder.

There are higher chances of burnout occurring when a child is pushed past their limits in sports, due to the fatigue from continued demands or

high expectations. Internal factors, like perfectionism or loss of love for the sport, can also contribute to burnout.

“I quit baseball when I was younger because I got bored and I didn’t love it anymore,” senior Dylan Zacca said. “My

parents d i d n’t force me to keep playing.”

The pressure placed on young athletes can damage them physically. Forcing kids to throw extra pitches, run extra miles or do anything beyond their bodies’ limits can cause injuries.

Athletes will often

practice multiple times a week, but it becomes excessive and harmful when it is an everyday occurrence.

A rising trend in athletes that push themselves too hard is ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction, also known as Tommy John surgery, which is common for baseball players. A UCL injury can be caused by the repetitive motion of throwing, a result of a child being pushed passed their limit. The surgery is being performed on athletes of younger ages every year and about 60 percent of all Tommy John surgeries in the United States are for patients ages 15 to 19.

There are constructive ways to push your child within sports without negatively affecting their mental state.

Different athletes will react in different ways. Some athletes respond well to pressure while others do not. A balance has to be found between encouragement and pushing young athletes too hard. The limit must be established and respected by parents and coaches or it could be detrimental to the player.

“If I had a bad game, my parents weren’t super hard on me; they knew I was hard enough on myself. I had the intrinsic motivation and drive to work hard and push myself,” CCHS alumna and softball player Michelle Adelman said.

“My parents realized I worked as hard as I could so berating me for poor performance wouldn’t help me.”

BY KYLEIGH SPRIGLE

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Tracking counts and calories THE HARSH REALITY OF THE DANCE WORLD ON YOUNG BODIES AND MINDS Dancers are perceived as the “perfect” beings who can move their bodies in seemingly effortless ways, all while conveying meaning and a story.

However, behind the stage curtain is an even deeper story— one that goes beyond the beauty found in the art of dance and encapsulates the darkest secrets dancers are forced to keep inside: body image.

Since the early beginnings of the dance world, especially that of competitive dance, body image has been a hot and often taboo, topic, regardless of the fact that it requires immediate attention.

“There’s an ideal image of ballerinas: the girls who have [a] skinny waist [and] long legs,” junior Lea Lanker, who danced for about 10 years, said. “If you want to make it big in the dance world, that is something people look for, maybe not always, but that’s just the way it [usually] is.”

As dancers work hard in their classes and rehearsals, they are constantly forced to look at their reflection. After all, the premise of their art form is reaching physical perfection for performances while also maintaining musical coordination and grace. Such a combination is what makes it so difficult.

“I think in the dance world, lots of girls are constantly comparing themselves to others because of the environment we’re in,” sophomore Breckyn Mayer, who has been dancing styles from hip hop to ballet for 13 years, said. “At competitions and showcases, the outfits we wear expose ourselves a lot, and it’s hard to not compare yourself to others [because of this].”

Another reason why there is this harsh reality for young

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dancers is because this type of pressure has been in the dance world for a long time.

For centuries, the stereotypical ballerina figurine has been pressured on young, aspiring students. Some dancers even claim that this issue has been passed down,

generation to generation.

“I know many teachers emphasize how in real-world auditions you get cut or kept based purely on your body type,” junior and current dancer Donna Nesselroth said. “The favoritism [of] longer, leaner looking girls is not a new thing; it comes from generations of old-school dance teachers embedding the bias into the minds of their students.”

This pressure massively contributes to the high levels of intense competitiveness in the field of dance. Although dancers form friendships and close bonds with each other during the long hours of rehearsal, a very tense atmosphere exists when it comes down to auditions for important roles or even company employment. This often leads to unhealthy comparisons and rivalries among peers.

“Judgment and comparison [are] everywhere within the world of dance, and I think that’s a huge part of body image,” Lanker said.

“I used to look at other girls and think, ‘If I looked like that, then maybe I’d be better.’

It really damages your selfesteem, especially when you’re [in] class to enjoy yourself and grow. You can’t do that when you’re constantly worrying

about what you look like and trying to be like someone else.”

Outside of the studio walls, the problem of body image runs even deeper, seeping into the professional world and even deciding the fate of hopeful company dancers. Not only is one’s body type a deciding factor in auditions for

prestigious dance jobs and roles, but it also can determine whether a dancer keeps their job.

Take the case of Boston Ballet dancer Heidi Guenther. In 1997, Guenther died suddenly on a family vacation at the young age of 22. The cause of her death? Guenther weighed a mere 93 pounds at her height of 5’6”, which the harshness of the ballet world was to blame for.

However, the issue is not only impacting dancers with professional dance careers.

In fact, research shows that dancers ages 11-15 have the highest risk of developing an eating disorder such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating.

Dancers often encounter a lack of helpful resources when it comes to body image issues. For example, some dance teachers may make negative comments on dancers’ bodies during rehearsals and social media posts can emphasize the seemingly “perfect” dancer body. This can perpetuate and even promote dancers’ unhealthy habits.

“I think it has definitely evolved with social media and the age of the Internet because pictures are constantly being taken and you can always look

Photo by Emma Huerta

back on how you look,” Mayer said. “It’s stemmed from mental health also because people go through a lot of things and us dancers express that through our craft. It’s hard to want to share your art when you don’t feel good enough to show anyone; it’s a constant battle.”

So, how can this issue be solved? Primarily, the solution

requires the promotion of healthy habits.

In modern times, this may entail wide-reaching educational programs or organizations. For example, Munchies, the food network by Vice, made a video with American Contemporary Ballet dancer Theresa Farrell, in which she explains how she eats both healthy and delicious things, all while maintaining a healthy figure.

Videos like these, as well as pamphlets, other organizations and more education overall, could be the key to making sure dancers are making the right nutritional decisions, therefore building themselves to be healthier both physically and mentally in the long run.

“I know there are resources out there, but there aren’t enough,” Nesselroth said. “[Dancers] deserve the right to know they can do whatever they want regardless of what they look like, and it’s so important to spread that message so everybody who needs to hear it can hear it.”

BY EMMA HUERTA

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