| Dr. Susan Bartell |
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Dr. Susan is a nationally recognized psychologist, author and speaker. You can learn more about her
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Dr. Susan's Newsletter to your friends by clicking on the "Forward email" link below | | |
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Greetings!
It's finally spring! The warmer weather, bright, light clothes and happy faces definitely brings a smile to my face! Those of you who have been reading my newsletter for a while, know that I am NOT a big fan of winter--at least not the winters we have in the northeast. I'm happy to say I've been able to put away the winter coats and get outside to feel the sun on my skin.
Spring also means it's time to shake off that winter couch potato feeling and get moving! The end of the school year is coming up, which means that stress might be mounting. That means this is the perfect time for squeezing in some exercise--not only to feel fit, but, did you know that exercise is at the top of of the list for reducing stress? That's right!! So, let's get this newsletter rockin' with some stress-lowering, energy pumping tips for moving into spring!
Dr. Susan |
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Stress-busting stretches |
Stretching is great for your body in many different ways. You probably already know that it's good to stretch during or after exercising (when your body is warmed up .) But did you know that stretching lightly is also a good way to reduce and even eliminate stress. AND the less stressed you feel, the less likely you are to turn to unhealthy coping methods like:
- junk-food (which causes weight gain & skin breakouts)
- alcohol/drugs
- being mean/snappy with your friends or family
Stretching is easy! Here are a few to try:
- Stand straight; Reach your arms up to the ceiling while standing on your toes. Hold for 5 seconds. Rest for 5 seconds. Repeat 3X
- Stand straight, legs slightly apart; gently bend sideways to the right, stretching right arm towards the floor, letting your head and neck hang in the same direction. DON'T overstretch your neck. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat on the other side. Rest for 5 seconds repeat 3X on each side.
- Sit down, back straight, legs straight in front,arms straight forward. Lean forward slowly towards your toes, keeping your back straight. It SHOULDN'T hurt--Stop when it begins to!! Hold for 5 seconds. Rest for 5 seconds. Repeat 3X.
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'Sexting' isn't safe! |
 There has been lots of talk lately about 'sexting'--sending naked, or semi-naked pictures of yourself by cell phone. Girls do this more often than boys, but I know boys who have done it too. Usually teens send a picture to their boyfriend or girlfriend with whom they are in a relationship and the receiver promises not to show or send it to anyone else.
Unfortunately, if you break-up, you might find that your angry ex has sent your picture to his (or her) friends...and eventually the whole school! NOTHING could be worse...
...well, this might be...in many states, sending nude pictures (your OWN or someone else's, in case you're the angry ex!) is now considered pornography and a crime, and even young teens are being prosecuted to the full extent of the law! So, here are some tips to consider:
- NEVER, EVER send anything by text, email or any other electronic form that may compromise or hurt you, get you into trouble, or embarrass you in anyway.
- Never be pressured by a boyfriend or girlfriend to do anything sexually that you don't want to, or that you don't think is right--sending nude or semi-nude photos may feel safe because you're not face-to-face, but if you're not sure, see #1
- Remember, if someone loves you they won't ask you to do something that could hurt you later on.
- You can't get someone to like or love you by showing them pictures of your naked body.
- Sending photos of someone else is mean, hurtful and could be a crime.
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Ask Dr. Susan! |
Q. Dear Dr. Susan, I'm really stressed about finals and want to know how to make sure I do really well.
A. Lots of teens get stressed at this time of year! But, it is important to study the right way so you can do well. Here are a few ideas to help you ace your finals!
- During the weeks before and during finals, plan and organize each week and day in advance, making sure to include enough time to study for each test and complete each assignment.
- Don't be embarrassed to ask for help! Most teachers hold review periods during or after school, go to them, even if you know the subject.
- Study with friends some of the time, but not all the time, AND pick the right friends. Study groups help you and your friends, but they can become too social, especially if you study with friends who rely on you to carry all the weight.
- Take breaks to exercise, eat and socialize, but don't overdo it. You'll burn out if all you do is study, but at this time of year, studying must still be your priority.
- If you feel really overwhelmed, speak to an adult you trust--your parent, a teacher or a school counselor.
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