2023 has become the most aggressively anti-LGBTQ+ period on record from a legislative standpoint.Of the more than 520 anti-LGBTQ+ bills that have been introduced within state legislatures since the beginning of the year, more than 145 have passed in at least one legislative chamber, according to the LGBTQ+ civil rights organization Human Rights Campaign. At least 70 statutes were passed into law—15 of which specifically ban gender-affirming medical care for transgender youth.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2011-2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that LGBTQ+ high school students were “significantly more likely to experience all forms of violence” than their peers. Almost 70% reported having “persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness,” and the systemic targeting of their greater community in the form of legislative action has been one of the primary factors contributing to an increase in psychological and psychiatric illnesses among LGBTQ+ children, adolescents, and young adults.
The CDC’s statistics coincide with a recent survey conducted by The Trevor Project, a nonprofit organization that provides professional counseling for LGBTQ+ youth who are at risk of self-harm or suicide. For the fifth consecutive year, this survey gathered vital information about the mental state of more than 28,000 people ages 13 to 24 who identify as LGBTQ+. The findings were alarming: “Sixty percent of LGBTQ young people reported that they have felt discriminated against in the past year due to their sexual orientation or gender identity,” while 27% of trans and non-binary respondents said they had been physically threatened or harmed in that same time frame.
To look more closely at the current state of youth mental health in this besieged community, Northwell Health partnered with Stacker to compile a list of statistics related to LGBTQ+ youth mental health using data from The Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health.
The organization’s CEO and executive director, Amit Paley, affirms the national survey “is one of the most diverse” ever conducted on LGBTQ+ youth—45% of respondents are “of color,” and 48% identify as transgender or nonbinary.
Nearly half of LGBTQ+ youth seriously considered suicide in the last year
Photo credit: Shutterstock/fizkes
According to the Trevor Project, “LGBTQ+ youth are not inherently prone to suicide risk.” Rather, their gender identity or sexual orientation increases threats because of how they are “mistreated and stigmatized in society.” Black youths are more vulnerable, and the risk is even greater among Black transgender and non-binary teenagers and young adults.
Those subjected to conversion therapy often report seriously considering suicide. The Trevor Project, therefore, directs its advocacy work to youth subjected to these treatments that human rights organizations and medical and mental therapists and organizations diametrically oppose.
73% of LGBTQ+ youth experienced symptoms of anxiety; 58% had symptoms of depression
Photo credit: Shutterstock/Rawpixel.com
Increased anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric has contributed to deteriorating the mental health of the community’s younger members. Anxiety and depression are a constant struggle for LGBTQ+ people, who report that symptoms worsen when derogatory or discriminating comments come from authorities or policymakers.
Mental health challenges correlate with social factors such as family, friends, and classmates. According to the CDC, LGBTQ+ youth face high risks of being bullied at school, dating violence, and rape, among other traumatic events.
Recognizing the higher risk for LGBTQ+ students, the American School Counselor Association issued guidelines to address barriers that harm LGBTQ+ students’ development and achievements, including encouraging school counselors to proactively advocate for inclusion and confront victimization on campus.
From 2020 to 2022, rates of LGBTQ+ youth considering suicide and experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression rose
The COVID-19 pandemic was a challenge for most of the world’s population. Over half of LGBTQ+ youth in the U.S. stated that their mental health deteriorated during and after the health crisis. The Trevor Project’s survey shows a consistent increase in suicidal thoughts and symptoms related to anxiety and depression in the past two years. Nevertheless, the pandemic might have been only one of the causes.
Mental distress in LGBTQ+ youth can be mitigated by implementing affirming, accepting, and empathetic approaches in homes, schools, colleges, and other social settings. The CDC recommends educating the community at large—especially adults who act as role models—about the needs of LGBTQ+ kids and young adults, in order to provide a safe and understanding environment. This is particularly important when facing psychologically demanding times.
60% of LGBTQ+ youth desiring mental health care couldn’t obtain it
Photo credit: Shutterstock/SeventyFour
Although LGBTQ+ youth may feel anxious, depressed, or suicidal, most understand the importance of mental health care. Unfortunately, the majority report not having access to it.
The World Health Organization warns that undiagnosed and untreated mental illnesses will worsen without professional aid. The WHO also points to the fact that continuous symptoms lead people to self-medicate, which can lead to abusing drugs or alcohol. The younger people start consuming drugs, the higher their risk of developing addiction and other related mental disorders.
Though not a replacement for continued, personalized care from a mental health professional, several organizations connect LGBTQ+ youth to free counseling, mental health support, and suicide prevention help, including the LGBT National Youth Talkline (1-800-246-7743), TrevorText (text “start” to 678-678), and Trans Lifeline (877-565-8860).
93% of LGBTQ+ youth said they were worried about being denied access to gender-affirming care and 91% said they were worried about being denied access to bathrooms
Photo credit: Shutterstock/Andrey_Popov
The concerns expressed by LGBTQ+ youth are well justified. Indiana’s governor signed a bill in April 2023 prohibiting minors from receiving gender-affirming health care in the state. The law takes effect on July 1, while children and teenagers already receiving medication must end treatments by the end of the year.
The Human Rights Campaign condemned the North Dakota House of Representatives after it passed seven different bills in January and February 2023 prohibiting transgender children and teenagers from identifying as such in public and legal documents. This “Slate of Hate” also restricts the use of an array of facilities, such as gym showers and restrooms, compatible with a trans person’s gender identity. Initiatives like The Human Rights Campaign focus on LGBTQ+ equality and inclusion through policy advocacy and tracking anti-trans legislation.
Suicide rates among LGBTQ+ youth are lower when they feel that their home and school are gender-affirming spaces and receive support from friends and family
Photo credit: Shutterstock/Ground Picture
The 2022 survey reveals nearly 20% of LGBTQ+ youth believe their community is “somewhat or very unaccepting of LGBTQ people.” According to UCLA’s Williams Institute, transgender people are four times as likely to experience violence in their lifetime as cisgender people.
Parental acceptance is vital to the mental health of any child or young adult, particularly to LGBTQ+ youth. The rest of the family and community also play decisive roles in their development and inclusion. Suicide, depression, and anxiety are drastically reduced when they are met with visibility, support, and inclusion from the people around them. That’s also the mission behind the It Gets Better Project, which helps LGBTQ+ youth feel that they’re not alone through a global community that shares stories of their own struggles and experiences.
Getting kids’ hands in the dirt has health benefits and connects them to the Earth.
A garden is an interactive playground that engages all senses and teaches lessons without forcing them — think responsibility, cause and effect, curiosity, physical activity and a budding love of nature. Hands-on involvement in basic gardening encourages self-confidence, and can even teach gratitude for the people in this world that keep us fed.
There is nothing more rewarding than the fruits of your own labor! Here are three great plants to get the kids started.
Wildflower seed bombs
We’ve got a fun activity to kick off your family’s green thumb — DIY wildflower seed bombs!
Seed bombs help speed up the blooming process since soil and seeds are covered in clay to keep them away from critters. Your kids can help out rolling up everything in a ball and press on pretty flowers for a nice touch. When done, you can plant them and water regularly until the clay has washed away. Doesn’t that sound so easy and fun to do?
Nothing screams summer like biting right into a fresh, juicy strawberry. The only thing that could make it taste better is one grown in your own garden! Pick up a starter plant from a local nursery. In a raised bed that is easy to access, plant your strawberries. Children will love watching the white flower grow to be a small green berry and finally the reward of a bright red one to munch on.
Tip: It’s best to keep these in a raised bed so you get to taste the fruit before some pesky rabbit does.
Snap Peas
Patience is an important virtue for children to learn, but it’s one they won’t need when growing snap peas! Snap peas grow quickly and early in the season, making them rewarding to grow and fun to observe daily as you search for new pea pods. Plus, they’re perfect for snapping off a delicious, healthy snack.
Mint
Did I hear mojitos? Mint is an invasive plant, so it must be kept in a container or raised bed, but this super grower will give you and your child plenty of fresh-smelling leaves for recipes and crafts all summer long! You can start from seed (indoors in early March) or a starter plant later in the season. Crush some leaves and place them in a container as a smelling jar for young ones, or let the older kids make a hot peppermint tea and notice the relaxing benefits.
Rosemary
This is another fragrant herb that is easy to grow and can be dried to enjoy year-round! Grab a starter plant from a nursery and stick it in some dirt. Let your children run their fingers gently over the leaves to release some of the scent. This is a great sensory activity that can be dried for use in recipes or even in creative crafts.
Sunflowers
Add some pops of color to your child’s garden by growing sunflowers. Not are they some of the easiest flowers to germinate, but they’re a great learning experience for kids. Start the seeds inside, then when they’re ready, transplant them in your outdoor garden as you teach your kids all about how plants grow. If you’re successful, you might just have a towering sunflower to snap your child’s picture with by the end of the summer!
The Motor City is home to a stunning riverfront, Motown music, a vibrant culinary scene and many historic sites for families to explore. Foodies, sports fans, musicians and travelers love metro Detroit for reasons that are diverse as its residents.
Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, getting to play tourist in Detroit is always exciting. On your next family day out, use this list of 100 kid-friendly things to do in metro Detroit to check off iconic bucket list items or discover a new-to-you hidden gem.
Check something off your Detroit bucket list
Photo credit: The Heidelberg Project
Whether you’re a suburbanite or a city dweller, you’re not a true Detroiter until you’ve checked a few of these quintessential attractions off your bucket list.
ExploreEastern Market.Browse local vendors and purchase healthy food and farm-fresh goodies, all while enjoying live music and other free family programming.
2. Visit theFisher Building.This historical landmark is perhaps the most distinctive building in Detroit’s skyline. Public access is limited to the lobby and retail shops, buttours are offered on Saturdays.
3. Ride theDetroit People Mover.Families can zoom all over downtown forfreeon Detroit’s elevated light rail.
4. Tour the Shinola factory.Families with kids 12 and up can take a 90 minute tour of the company’s production facility, which makes leather goods and other luxury lifestyle items.
5. Eat atMom’s Spaghetti.Kids will love the simple comfort food on the menu. Parents will love that the restaurant is owned by iconic rapper Eminem and showcases memorabilia from the metro Detroit native’s career.
6. Play at theMonroe Street Midway.One of my personal favorite outdoor attractions in Detroit, the Midway is a summer playground located in the heart of downtown. Hoop it up on the colorful basketball courts, hit the roller rink or relax and take in the scenery and live music from local DJs.
7. Visit theHeidelberg Project.Instantly recognizable by its iconic polka dots, the house at The Heidelberg Project attracts artists and curiosity seekers. The non-profit art space never charges an admission fee, making it one ofmetro Detroit’s great free attractions for families.
8. Get inspired atDabls Mbad African Bead Museum.See 21 art installations made out of handmade African beads and other unique materials. Admission is alwaysfree.
9. Explore the city’s neighborhoods.While tourist attractions are part of what makes Detroit such an exciting city, so much of the city’s vibrancy and culture lies in its neighborhoods. Go beyond downtown and explore a new neighborhood using one of ourfamily neighborhood guides. Plus, we have tons of guides for exploring the suburbs, too!
Indulge in a food tour
Photo credit: Lipuma’s Coney Island
Detroit has a diverse and vibrant food scene. From classics likeconey dogsandDetroit-style pizzatoincredible dessertsand yummy allergy-friendly options, it would take you a lifetime to eat your way through this city!
10. Pan pizza or thin crust?That’s for you to decide! (Personally, I’ll take those crispy edges on Detroit pan-style any day!) Check out theselocal pizza joints for familiesthat are serving up everything from Detroit-style pies to and bold BBQ pizza to vegan and allergy-friendly slices.
11. Trya coney dog.Topped with chili, onion and mustard, coney dogs are a staple in Detroit’s culinary scene.These family-friendly hot dog spotscarry classic coney dogs, as well as plain options for picky eaters.
12. Indulgein a grilled cheese.Speaking of picky eaters, every parent knows you can’t go wrong with grilled cheese. Visit these local spots for thebest grilled cheese sandwiches in metro Detroit, including options to add bacon or even lobster to your sammy.
13. Satisfyyour sweet tooth.Whether you’re visiting for a vacation or just for the day, no trip is complete without dessert! Like me, Detroit has a serious sweet tooth and the city takes its dessert seriously. Find milkshakes topped with sugary treats, loaded cookies, waffles and cheesecake, vegan treats and even moreover-the-top desserts at these metro Detroit sweet shops.
14. Eatat a themed restaurant.Turn your next family meal into an exciting experience with a visit to one of thesethemed restaurants for metro Detroit families. Dine in a miniature museum, or enjoy a meal in old school digs that honor the Motor City’s industrial history.
Visit a cultural gem with your kids
Photo credit: EE Berger
Metro Detroit is home to amazing cultural experiences, including art, history and science museums. Here are just a few of the city’s great cultural centers and events to visit with kids.
15. Educateyour family on the city’s historyat theDetroit Historical Museum. Residents of Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park can visit for free with a Detroiter membership.
16. VisitThe Henry Ford.TheHenry FordMuseum of American Innovationis an exciting way to learn how Detroit got its nickname as The Motor City. The museum is also home to the Rosa Parks bus, the Kennedy Limousine, over a hundred antique cars and exciting rotating exhibits.
17. Travel back in timewith a visit toGreenfield Village. This outdoor adventure includes nearly 100 historic buildings. Explore seven historic districts, catch a ride in a real Model T and much more.
19. Getfunkyat theMotown Museum. The museum is located in the original Motown Studios headquarters and recording studio. Photographs, artifacts, costumes and other memorabilia will transport your family back to a time when the city was known as Hitsville, USA.
20. Discover dinosaurs, unseen worlds and more natural wonders at the University of Micihgan’sMuseum of Natural History.
21. Takea trip to theDetroit Institute of Arts.Recently named the top museum in the country by USA Today, the DIA’s collection has more than 65,000 works of art. Plus, we love the views from the museum’s cafeteria-style Cafe DIA.
22. Seemodern and contemporary artat theCranbrook Art Museum. The museum’s campus is home to world-renowned architecture, sculpture and beautiful gardens.
23. Takeadvantage of free admission at theMuseum of Contemporary Art Detroit.Tweens and teens will love the unique rotating exhibits and contemporary art. After your visit, grown ups can stop at the museum’s cafe for coffee drinks or cocktails — plus yummy treats for all ages!
25. Michigan Science Centeroffers hands-on activities and exciting science experiments for curious kiddos.
26. Cranbrook Institute of Scienceis home to interactive exhibits, a planetarium and observatory, world-class collections and even a T.rex and a meteorite!
Consider adding one of these annual events to your Detroit Bucket List for an experience that is quintessential Detroit.
32. From dinosaur and dragon strolls to charming holiday events,Canterbury Villagehas a full events calendar of exciting activities for families. Even when there’s not an event, the village’s shops, restaurants and beautiful grounds make the historic village a great destination for a family day out.
33. Celebratethe seasonatBlake Farms. From lavender and sunflower festivals to Cider Dayze and pumpkin patches, there’s a fun outdoor festival for every season.
Midwest weather is notorious for being, well, a bit unstable. It’s not unusual to see people out enjoying the sunshine one day and bundled up to brave the snow the next. Winters here can be frigid, and summers can be hot hot hot!
No matter what the forecast calls for, southeast Michigan offers a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors in all seasons. Check out these nature spots and places for outdoor play the next time your family wants to enjoy a breath of fresh air.
37. Enjoy riverfront views, public art, fun playgrounds and peaceful parks along theDetroit Riverfront.
38. Explore theDequindre Cut Greenway, an urban recreation path built on an old railway. The two-mile path offers paved lanes for pedestrians and cyclists. Along the route you’ll find outdoor stages, plazas and the Dequindre Cut Freight Yard bar.
44. VisitWilliam G. Milliken State Park and Harbor. Located on the Riverfront, this state park is a popular place for family picnics. The park is divided into three areas: the harbor, the picnic area and a bern area that offers two spotting scopes to see across the river to Canada.
45. Play at theHuron-Clinton Metroparks.These 13 parks offer playgrounds,m bike trails, fishing, ice skating, camping and biking more outdoor fun for metro Detroit families.
Lions, tigers and bears — and so much more! Your family can visit and learn about their favorite animals, enjoy nature-based activities and get up close and personal with wildlife at these aquariums, nature centers and more.
49. Visit a nature center.Southeast Michigan has manyfree nature centersthat offer educational programming, nature activities,kid-friendly hiking trailsand more for outdoorsy families. Check their upcoming events to find out when you can visit for an animal encounter.
50. Take a trip to alocal farmand interact with friendly farm animals like horses, cows, donkeys, chickens and even reindeer!
53. Keep an eye out for when the newLegasea Aquariumopens this spring.
54. Enjoy free admissionat theBelle Isle Aquarium,the oldest original aquarium in the nation.
55. Get hands-on atThe Reptarium. Reptile enthusiasts will love the variety of snakes, lizards, tortoises and other scaly creatures that are on display. Even visitors that are scared of reptiles can learn to conquer their fears and learn something new about these incredible creatures.
Don’t let the rain dampen your family fun! Whether the weather isn’t cooperating or you just need a new place to play, kids can spend all day at these exciting indoor spots in southeast Michigan.
57. Play the day awayat one of thebest indoor play places in southeast Michigan. You’ll discover family fun centers, play places with exciting themes and even some spots that offer coffee shops and Wi-Fi for parents.
58. Build a brick-tastic creationatLegoland Discovery Center. Plus, enjoy Lego-themed movies, rides and activities.
60. Explore the natural worldatAnn Arbor Hands-On Museum. This museum has 10 exhibit areas with hands-on activities for kids of all ages.
61. Experience the Great Indoors.Located on Detroit’s Riverfront, theOutdoor Adventure Centerbrings all the outdoor fun inside, with activities like archery, a fishing simulator, nature exhibits and even an indoor waterfall!
64. Go fowling.This unique combo of bowling and football is a blast for older kiddos and families that love sports. Try it yourself atFowling Warehouse in Hamtramck.
65. Tryaxe throwingat one of these family-friendly axe throwing spots in metro Detroit. The sport is best for older kids, so be sure to check out any age requirements before you go.
66. Get your game onatMarvin’s Marvelous Mechanical Museum, a free admission arcade with vintage coin-operated machines, new video games and tons of oddities and unique memorabilia.
70. Spend the day at the library.Theseamazing children’s librariesin the city and suburbs offer free activities, a great selection of children’s books, toys and games and other learning resources for families.
Embark on a thrilling adventure
Photo credit: Cedar Point
If your family loves an adrenaline-filled adventure, these amusement parks and thrilling adventure parks are sure to deliver tons of family fun.
71. Get your thrills atCedar Point,an amusement park just two hours away from Detroit. Ride more than 70 rides, including 17 record-breaking roller coasters.
72. Climb through the treetopsatTreeRunner Adventure Parks. Navigate an aerial ropes course in the forest, or enjoy on-the-ground activities like gemstone mining and mini golf.
74. Rock climbingis a great activity for adventurous kids, especially when the Midwest weather isn’t cooperating with an outdoor adventure.
Go on a magical quest
Photo credit: Jurassic Gardens
Embark on a family quest to discover magical realms and mythological creatures, right here in Michigan! Magic is all around metro Detroit — if you know where to look!
75. Go searching for dinosaurs.From fossil digs to animatronic dinos, there are dinosaurs hidden in plain sight all over town. On your next family adventure, check out one of theseplaces to see dinosaurs in metro Detroit.
77. Transport your family back in timewith a trip to theMichigan Renaissance Festival. Meet artisans, jousters, fairies and more whimsical folk at this exciting Renaissance faire.
Take a day trip
Photo credit: Experience Grand Rapids
When you need a change of scenery, Detroit is just a drive away from these exciting destinations.
78. Ann Arboris less than an hour from Detroit, making it the perfect city for your family’s next day trip adventure! Visit the University of Michigan’s campus, museums and arboretum; stroll through a charming downtown; discover kid-friendly dining and much more.
79. Head to Shores & Islands Ohio, a.k.aSandusky, Ohio. The thrilling attractions at Cedar Point and the natural beach scenery of Put-In-Bay are two of the area’s main draws for families.
80. Grand Rapidsis home to craft breweries, a gorgeous sculpture park, fun festivals and a great children’s museum. Plus, it’s just two-and-a-half hours away!
81. Hollandis a popular destination for its annual Tulip Time Festival in May, but the lakefront town offers beautiful scenery and exciting activities for families all year round.
82. Drive two hours toKalamazoo,a college town that offers something for every family. Catch a sporting event, dine at a farm-to-table eatery, sample craft brews, visit an aerospace museum, book a unique crafting experience and more.
83. Visit the state’s capital city.Lansingoffers affordable fun for families on a budget. Check out the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum and the Impression 5 Science Center, which has a Scooby-Doo exhibit through May 12, 2024.
84. Take a beach trip toNew Buffalo.Although it’s a bit of a hike for a day trip — just under 4 hours — this charming town is the perfect beach escape for making you forget you’re in the Midwest.
Enjoy seasonal activities
Photo credit: Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill
No matter what time of year you choose to explore Detroit, there are exciting seasonal activities and traditions to experience with your kids. Discover some of these traditions and events that are unique to this city.
87. Indulge in paczki.Fat Tuesday is the day before Lent begins, and Detroiters celebrate by eatingpaczki,indulgent Polish pastries that are traditionally filled with cream, custard or other yummy goodies. Here iswhere to find paczki in metro Detroit, but be warned — these delicacies sell out quickly!
89. Browsing afarmers marketis a great way to shop for produce and farm fresh goodies. You’ll also find live music, kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations and much more at thesesoutheast Michigan farmers markets.
The life of a commuting student goes a little something like this: Checking traffic, traveling to school, finding parking, spending long days at school taking multiple classes — and finding the perfect study and lunch spots in between. Who has time for a college supply list?
But a little organization can go a long way in helping stressed college-bound kids. While commuting to college doesn’t require a college dorm checklist, it does require a lot of preparation. When students planning to commute to a local college or university are compiling their college supply list — sometimes for the first time — there are some items they must add to that back-to-school shopping list.
School supplies for college
Once you’ve figured out how you’re getting to school (that’s pretty important for commuters), it’s time to load up on class necessities.
Matthew Myers, who was a student at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, when we first wrote this article and now works as an Analytics Supervisor at Just Global Inc., commuted during his time in school. In regards to a college checklist of supplies, Myers says it’s comparable to shopping for supplies for high school.
Shop an office supply store to pick up your basics: No. 2 pencils, ink pens, folders, highlighters, notebooks.
“I tend to go for the five-subject notebooks so I don’t have to have five notebooks that I need,” he says. Plus, these notebooks typically have folder-style pockets and dividers, which come in handy and cut down on extras.
Time your shopping so you can snag the best prices on school supplies. Other items to consider, via Revive Center for Wellness:
Laptop bag
Small card holder
Portable charger and phone charger
Extra bag of clothes
Personal care items bag
Book
Water bottle
Snacks
Blanket
Lap desk
“Have plenty of writing utensils and things to write on,” adds Yoel Joa, the former assistant director of resident life — at Oakland University in Rochester. Writing physically not your thing? A tablet can be especially helpful, he says.
Speaking of electronic devices, don’t get stuck with a dead laptop, phone or tablet. Joa advises students to bring along extra chargers.
Storage and organization
Also important: the right gear for toting around all of your supplies for class. “I like having a really good bag, like a sturdy backpack (or) laptop case,” Myers says. It can hold all the essentials and keep students organized.
As Myers points out, commuters don’t have a dorm room in which to stash their textbooks after class. Try using your car as a “locker” of sorts. He recommends keeping a small tub or basket in the trunk of your car where you can leave your textbooks between classes.
If you can store your books and supplies in a container, you’ll keep everything in one place and decrease the risk of forgetting something you need at home.
Parking and food
There are some extra costs associated with commuting. There’s no dining plan, and students have to have a place to leave their car for the day if they drive themselves.
Figure out if parking is included in your tuition, if you have to pay by day or at a meter, or if it’s more cost efficient to buy a parking pass for a school lot. Scope out the areas you plan to park. Have change in case you have to park at a meter, Joa says.
A tip from Myers: factor the time it might take to search for parking into your daily commute and schedule.
Food costs can add up quickly when spending entire days on campus. The good news is you don’t have to mess with the vending machines and the food court lines every day. Add a lunch box or even paper lunch bags to your college supply list, Myers suggests, and pack food for the day – including small snacks you can grab to refuel on the go.
Staying hydrated should be a priority, too. Joa suggests purchasing a sturdy, reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.
Be prepared
Don’t get stuck driving all the way home for a headache, or embarrassed in class due to a booger issue. Joa recommends putting together an emergency kit that has some medical necessities — things like tissues, cough drops and Advil.
We live in Michigan, after all, and the weather can be unpredictable. Keep a spare pair of shoes, rain boots and/or winter boots in your car, along with an extra pair of socks and an umbrella, Joa adds.
Passing the time
There could be a 20-minute break before your next class, or a two-hour break. What to do?
“I do recommend music to kind of pass the time along,” Myers says. It’s something he couldn’t do without on his commute to and from school, and it’s great while studying or taking a break. Stream music on your phone and bring earbuds along.
Those breaks get a whole lot easier if you have a designated place to go. Even if you don’t live on campus, you can create the ultimate college experience by doing something simple: “I am a big proponent for getting involved in student life,” Myers says.
As a member of a fraternity, former president of the Student Activities Board and former student employee in the university’s Office of Student Engagement, Myers says it was a great way to meet friends for lunch and studying.
This post was originally published in 2015 and is updated regularly.
Pregnancy and birth, followed by the whirlwind of your baby’s first year, may be the most beautiful — and challenging — introduction to motherhood you’ll have. But there is no rule that says you’ll feel happy every moment of every day. In fact, being a new parent is hard and many women experience depression during this unique time.
There are very specific challenges that come up during the perinatal period, the months of pregnancy and 12 months after birth, says University of Michigan’s Zero to Thrive Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatrist, Samantha Shaw-Johnston, MD.
“People who have a history of mood or anxiety disorders are more likely to struggle with mental health challenges in the perinatal period, but even those without a history may experience similar difficulties,” she says. “There are huge hormonal changes in pregnancy and postpartum that make women more vulnerable.”
How do I know if it’s depression?
From a sense of restlessness to debilitating anxiety, mental health challenges can look different in different people.
Some believe they’re alone in navigating mental health challenges after having a baby, but it’s actually quite common, says Dr. Shaw-Johnston. One in five women struggle with mental health challenges in the postpartum period.
She shares five signs that an individual is experiencing challenges with their mental health:
Change in appetite, such as eating more or less
Finding little joy in once-loved hobbies
Self-blame
Struggling to sleep
Poor concentration
“Different levels require different levels of treatment,” Dr. Shaw-Johnston says. “If your supports don’t seem to be enough, and it’s hard to do the things you want or need to do, it’s time to reach out to a healthcare provider.”
What’s causing it?
Increased risk for depression comes from being isolated, Dr. Shaw-Johnston says. People are social creatures and we thrive on interactions with others, but caring for a baby can feel lonely at times because your baby can’t talk or support you emotionally.
And your family and friends may live too far away to support you in the day-to-day tasks of parenting.
“Historically, people lived in the same communities as generations of their family and have had built-in supports,” she says, “Now you might be living across the country from your family, so it makes sense that things are harder right now to get all the support you need to raise a family.”
The constant stream of unrealistically positive messaging about motherhood distorts the full reality, too, says Alyssa Stevenson, MD, who is also a University of Michigan’s Zero to Thrive Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatrist.
“Often, motherhood is depicted in social media and TV shows as a wonderful, amazing, life-altering time,” she says. “Sometimes what people are putting on social media is so different from the reality.”
Genetics, family background, and emotional shifts all come into play in the transition as well, Stevenson says. The importance of getting people screened for mental health conditions cannot be overstated.
Effect on the family
One person’s struggles with mental health issues can affect the entire family in ways that seem subtle but are developmentally important.
In the first stage of development, infants express their needs through crying, Dr. Shaw-Johnston says. It’s important, though not always easy, to be receptive to those needs relatively quickly and reliably, and babies thrive on feedback from caregivers.
“When people are struggling with their mental health, sometimes they might not be as emotionally present in that situation, and their facial reactivity is reduced,” Dr. Shaw-Johnston says. “Infants can see that it’s an unfamiliar response and that can be distressing for the infant.”
Other family members can be affected, too. When the mother is depressed or anxious, she may struggle to maintain a routine, so responsibilities might fall on other family members.
It’s important to know that mental health conditions can be treated. Recognizing the warning signs and getting access to quality care gives pregnant women, moms and families a chance for a happier and more satisfying perinatal period.
“It’s one of the times when a woman is most vulnerable to struggling with mental health,” Dr. Stevenson says. “We’re trying to take care of people in very vulnerable spaces.”
Vital services for maternal health
“At Michigan Medicine we’re lucky to have standardized screening for depression during pregnancy and in the postpartum period,” says Dr. Shaw-Johnston.
Michigan Medicine features Zero to Thrive, a perinatal and infant-and-early-childhood mental health center, built on the premise that the period from pregnancy through early childhood is an especially sensitive time. Zero to Thrive’s goal is to knock down barriers so that patients can get the help they need.
Obstetricians and gynecologists identify troublesome issues in perinatal patients, and the provider can leverage MC3’s perinatal services, a provider consultation service to help identify mental health conditions that can be treated in pregnant and new moms.
“You don’t have to navigate for yourselves,” Dr. Stevenson says. “You can ask your provider and they can directly reach out to the MC3 program and, that day, your provider will talk to a perinatal psychiatrist who will talk through the issues and give recommendations.”
Mental health conditions are common, Dr. Stevenson says, and it’s of paramount importance that people know they are not alone.
“A lot of people are going through this stage of life at this time,” she says. “We have treatments to help you. We have a lot of research and many different ways to address your issues and treat your symptoms.”
It can happen in the blink of an eye. One moment your child is close, the next, they’re nowhere in sight. For the parents of a child with autism, wandering away — commonly called “elopement” — is a real and present worry. Plan and prepare for elopement, says Tisa Johnson-Hooper, M.D., medical director at the Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities at Henry Ford Health.
In children with autism under the age of 7, 50% will have some type of elopement behavior. During each visit, Dr. Johnson-Hooper helps parents create a plan to prevent their child from wandering off or escaping.
Tips for preventing elopement
Think ahead to your child’s next developmental stage. Your 2-year-old may not be able to use a key in a lock placed high on a door. Eventually, they will have the fine motor skills to unlock a door or window — and be able to climb, too.
“An alarm can be very helpful because parents can grab their child before they get too far away,” Peterson says.
If your child is in ABA therapy, talk to your BCBA. Together, you can tailor an appropriate prevention plan for your child’s developmental stage. Peterson shares an example of a child who typically wandered away during trips to the grocery store.
“What I had the family do was take more trips to the grocery store, but for shorter periods of time,” she explains. She recommends starting at just two minutes a visit.
“They could leave on a good note of their child staying with them, and then they’d get some sort of reward afterward for staying close to the parent. And then slowly increase the time,” she says. “I encourage parents to start small.”
Some families discover that their family dog steps into the role of protector, sleeping at the door outside the child’s room at night and guarding the front door during the day.
“There are dog trainers who many work specifically to train a family dog for this purpose,” says Dr. Johnson-Hooper. “I do love that when you are thinking about therapies or interventions, if the family can identify ones that are just natural. It’s natural to have pets, and if you can just simply train your dog, that’s a great thing.”
More ways to keep your child close
Other tips to prevent elopement during trips in the community include:
Holding hands, especially in parking lots.
If your child doesn’t want to hold your hand, they can hold onto the cart, your purse, or dad’s backpack instead. This can be helpful when you need to use your hands for other tasks, like picking out produce at the store.
Put young children in the shopping cart. Save walking around for a place where you can focus on keeping them close.
Make the case for a disability parking placard from your child’s doctor — or see if this is available through your ABA therapy clinic. “In my mind, the closer you can get to the door, the less chance your child can get away from you in a potentially dangerous environment,” says Dr. Johnson-Hooper. “It’s not an ambulatory issue, it’s a safety issue for older children who are bigger, faster, and stronger.” When she authorizes a parking placard, as the reason needed, she writes in “Autism. Significant risk of eloping.”
It feels easier to leave your child at home, but resist this temptation, says Dr. Johnson-Hooper.
“I understand that as a parent, you just want to get through that activity in peace. But how will a child ever learn if they don’t have the experience and exposure? That’s part of preventing this outcome of eloping. When they practice and don’t elope, reward them for safe behavior. Be consistent and persistent” she says.
Ways to prepare for the best outcome if your child with autism elopes
If your child does elope, how do you find them quickly? Labels in your child’s clothing and an ID bracelet are a good start. Additionally, you can put a GPS or cellular tracking device in their pocket. You can also work with your child’s BCBA to help them learn to share identifying details and a phone number.
You can also make sure everyone in your neighborhood knows who your child is and can name them on sight. Dr. Johnson-Hooper did this when her own kids were young.
“And for a child with autism, you should take them to your neighbor and say, ‘Hey, this is my little kiddo, he’s 5, he loves being outside, but he’s likely to wander. This is his name. He’ll respond to this if you see him. This is my contact information.’”
Don’t be surprised if your neighbors become your extra eyes and ears — something you’ll welcome when you need it.
Is your child running away from something — or toward something?
When your child elopes, they’re often escaping something, such as noises, crowds, or lights. Or, they are seeking something favored, like trees or dogs. Your child’s BCBA can also help you determine what can trigger elopement, says Peterson.
“It’s individualized. However, if parents have children who elope, what they can start to do is look at the situations around when eloping occurs and that will help them get a better understanding,” she says. “If a certain noise happens or a situation happens, the likelihood my child is going to elope is pretty high, so they could hold their hand or be in closer proximity to them. There usually are some signs if you look closely at the situation of the person eloping.”
On elopement: two critically important situations to bear in mind
1. Swimming pools, lakes, bodies of water
Water is one thing children with autism often seek when they elope. Drowning is the No.1 cause of death in children with autism.
“I recommend swim lessons as soon as possible because a lot of the times, they get to a body of water and they don’t know what to do,” Peterson says. Find your nearest YMCA or ask at any of the new swimming schools in southeast Michigan.
2. Law enforcement
One thing to be aware of is when a teenage boy or young man leaves home and encounters the police. This situation can escalate. Keep an eye out for this. If it happens, it is crucial to handle it carefully.
“Many of my families who have young men who elope, especially those of color, fear that their child will not be given the grace and that space to not be responsive to law enforcement,” says Dr. Johnson-Hooper.
The way to preempt possible conflict, she says, is to get to know law enforcement in your community and make sure they know your child. Introduce your child to all law enforcement officers in the area. Share his picture with them. Explain the steps you are taking to prevent him from wandering off. Then tell them what they need to do if they see him.
“You need to alert law enforcement that your child has autism, lives in the community, and is at risk of eloping. Sometimes you may even need to explain what autism is and that he’s not going to respond to his name,” she says.
Take the time to educate others about your child and where you live. And, says Dr. Johnson-Hooper, give people grace. They may not understand how autism increases the risk of elopement, or that you are doing everything you can to prevent it.
