Stronger Together: Building Family Resilience in Birmingham

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Stress doesn’t discriminate by age—parents and kids feel it, too. In Birmingham, families juggle work demands, school pressures, and financial strain. Building resilience together can help everyone stay emotionally strong.

Mental health and substance abuse are now the number one health concern in Alabama a sign of how prevalent stress and its effects have become in our communities. Data from NAMI Alabama shows that in 2021, 43% of adults reported symptoms of anxiety or depression, and nearly half couldn’t access needed therapy, often due to cost or provider shortages

Kids don’t always say when they’re overwhelmed. Look for trouble sleeping, irritability, or mood changes. National research shows that parenting stress contributes significantly to a child’s mental health challenges, while strong family resilience can reduce risks like ADHD—highlighting how powerful emotional support at home can be.

Coping Strategies That Strengthen Families

  • Mindfulness & Open Talk: Simple activities—like family breathing exercises or calm conversations—give everyone space to share worries.
  • Community & Faith-Based Support: Local churches, neighborhood groups, and community centers offer encouragement and resources in tough times.
  • Local Mental Health Help: Birmingham has expanded access to care. For example, the Craig Crisis Care Center offers emergency support with observation beds and trained professionals—helping reduce emergency room and jail reliance for mental health crises. Additionally, the Alabama Department of Mental Health has launched a new Office of Child and Family Services and enhanced school-based mental health collaboration across the state to reach more families in need.

Sunday Stress Check-In: A Simple Family Habit

  • Try a weekly “Family Stress Check-In” every Sunday evening:
  • What was the hardest part of your week?
  • What was your favorite moment?
  • How can we support each other next week?

This simple routine helps family members feel seen and supported—building resilience step by step.

References

Alabama Department of Mental Health. (2025, May). Annual Report FY24: Addressing the youth mental health crisis. https://mh.alabama.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Annual-Report-FY24-for-web.pdf

Alabama Department of Public Health. (2025, February 3). Mental health and substance abuse. https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/healthrankings/mental-health-and-substance-abuse.html

Associated Press. (2023, January 24). Mental health crisis center opens in Birmingham. AP News.

NAMI Alabama. (n.d.). Mental health in Alabama—state fact sheet. https://www.nami.org (PDF)

Uddin, J. (2020). Parenting stress and family resilience affect the association between adverse childhood experiences and child mental health outcomes. Journal of Affective Disorders, … (PubMed). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32379600/

Healthy Habits at Home: Building Routines That Stick

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Families do best when there’s structure and the good news is, healthy routines don’t have to be complicated to make a real difference. Here in Alabama, where nearly 37% of adults are living with obesity, one of the highest rates in the country, simple changes at home, like cooking together or adding in more active family time, can go a long way in supporting better health for everyone (CDC, 2023).

When families eat together, they’re more likely to consume fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and less likely to rely on fast food or processed meals (Healthy People 2030, 2020). Cooking together also teaches kids practical skills and encourages them to try new foods. Even swapping sugary drinks for water or preparing one homemade meal a few nights a week can make a difference.

Exercise doesn’t have to mean structured workouts. Walking at a local park, biking together, or turning chores into movement, like dancing while cleaning, keeps the whole family active. The CDC recommends children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, and adults aim for 150 minutes each week (CDC, 2022). Family-based activity is a fun way to meet those goals while also reducing stress and building connections.

Too much screen time has been linked to increased sedentary behavior and sleep problems in youth (CDC, 2023). By setting limits, families can open up more opportunities for outdoor play, reading, or games that spark creativity. Even 30 minutes of unplugged family time a day can help replace screens with healthier habits.

Healthy change starts small. This week, encourage your family to set one goal, like cooking dinner together twice or taking a 15-minute walk after school. Little steps add up, and before long, they can become lasting routines that help families in Birmingham and beyond thrive.

Call-to-Action: Pick one simple habit today. Whether it’s a new recipe, an evening walk, or a screen-free night, your family’s journey to better health starts at home, with one step at a time.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Physical activity basics. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Overweight and obesity data. https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data

Healthy People 2030. (2020). Nutrition and healthy eating objectives. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Vaping and Our Youth: A Birmingham Reality Check

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Vaping might seem trendy, but for many teens in Birmingham and across Alabama, it’s turning into a real health concern. Those sweet flavors and flashy devices can make it look harmless, but the truth is vaping can quickly become an unhealthy habit with serious, long-term effects.

The Popular but Risky Choice

E-cigarettes are now the most commonly used tobacco product among U.S. youth. In fact, more than 1.6 million middle and high school students report current use, and most prefer flavored products that mask the dangers (CDC, 2024). Here in Alabama, more than half of high school students had tried vaping by 2019, with nearly one in five actively using e-cigarettes (Protecting Taxpayers, 2019).

Why Teens Are at Higher Risk

Nicotine, the main addictive ingredient in vapes, affects developing brains differently. For teens, it can interfere with memory, learning, attention, mood, and impulse control—all critical during high school and college years (CDC, 2024). What may start as “just trying it out” can quickly turn into a powerful addiction.

More Than Just Vapor

The aerosol in e-cigs isn’t harmless water vapor. It can contain toxic metals, chemicals, and even flavorings like diacetyl, which has been linked to lung disease (CDC, 2025). Research also connects vaping with higher risks of asthma flare-ups, COPD, and heart problems later in life.

A Call to Action for Teens and Parents

Here’s the good news: most teens who vape say they want to quit—and many have already tried (CDC, 2024). That’s where parents, teachers, and community leaders can step in. By having open, judgment-free conversations, sharing trustworthy information, and pointing teens toward quit-lines or local health programs, we can support young people in making healthier choices and breaking free from vaping.

The Bottom Line

Vaping is not just a phase or a safer alternative—it’s a real threat to youth health in Birmingham and beyond. Together, families and communities can help teens break free from nicotine and choose healthier paths for the future.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, October 17). E-Cigarette use among youth. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/youth/index.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025, January 31). Health effects of e-cigarettes. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/e-cigarettes/health-effects/index.htm

Protecting Taxpayers. (2019). Tobacco & vaping 101: Alabama. https://protectingtaxpayers.org

Tobacco Use and Its Long-Term Effects in Birmingham, Alabama

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Tobacco use is still a big health challenge in Alabama, especially in Birmingham and nearby communities. Even after years of awareness efforts, smoking continues to lead to serious health problems, early deaths, and heavy costs for families and the healthcare system. It doesn’t just impact people who smoke, secondhand smoke puts loved ones at risk too, making this an issue that touches entire families and communities.

Magnitude of the Problem

In Alabama, about 22.1% of adults are current cigarette smokers, compared to the national average of 14% (CDC, 2023). Youth smoking is also concerning, with approximately 12% of adolescents aged 12–17 reporting tobacco use. The long-term effects are staggering—tobacco use contributes to lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and reproductive health problems (Healthy People 2030, n.d.).

The economic toll is equally severe. Each year, smoking-related illnesses cost Alabama $1.49 billion in healthcare expenditures and an additional $2.24 billion in lost productivity, much of which falls on Medicaid and taxpayer-supported systems (Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, 2024). Communities like Birmingham, with higher rates of poverty and limited access to care, shoulder a disproportionate share of these burdens.

Solutions

  • Prevention Programs: School- and community-based education campaigns can deter youth from starting tobacco use.
  • Cessation Support: Expanding access to quitlines, nicotine replacement therapies, and counseling improves quit success rates.
  • Policy Interventions: Increasing tobacco taxes, enforcing smoke-free laws, and restricting youth access to tobacco products are evidence-based strategies proven to reduce smoking rates (CDC, 2023).
  • Equity-Based Approaches: Targeted outreach in underserved Birmingham neighborhoods ensures that cessation support is accessible to those most affected.

What Individuals and Families Can Do

  • Know the Risks: Understand that smoking is linked to long-term illnesses that affect quality of life and lifespan.
  • Seek Help: Call the Alabama Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) for free counseling and resources.
  • Support Loved Ones: Encourage family and friends who smoke to take steps toward quitting, offering patience and accountability.
  • Promote Smoke-Free Spaces: Advocate for smoke-free homes, workplaces, and public spaces to protect non-smokers from secondhand smoke.

Conclusion

Tobacco use continues to exact a heavy toll on Birmingham residents, both in health outcomes and economic costs. Through education, prevention, policy change, and community action, Birmingham can reduce smoking rates and create a healthier future for all.

References

Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. (2024). The toll of tobacco in Alabama. https://www.tobaccofreekids.org

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Smoking & tobacco use. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Tobacco use objectives. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Prostate Cancer: Protecting Men’s Health Through Early Detection

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Prostate cancer is a major health concern for men, especially as they get older. The good news is that it’s very treatable when caught early, but many men put off screenings because of fear, stigma, or simply not knowing enough about them. By breaking down the stigma and encouraging regular check-ups, we can help more men catch prostate cancer early and save lives.

Magnitude of the Problem
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States, with more than 288,000 new cases and over 34,000 deaths reported annually (CDC, 2023). Black men face an even greater burden, experiencing higher incidence rates and nearly double the mortality rate compared to white men (Healthy People 2030, n.d.). While the exact cause of prostate cancer remains unknown, risk factors include age (50+), family history, and lifestyle behaviors. Without early detection, prostate cancer can progress silently, leading to advanced disease and fewer treatment options.

Solutions
Addressing prostate cancer requires a combination of medical, community, and policy strategies:

  • Screening and Early Detection: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing and digital rectal exams can detect cancer before symptoms appear. Shared decision-making between men and healthcare providers is essential.
  • Targeted Education: Culturally tailored education for high-risk groups, especially Black men, can help overcome mistrust and improve screening rates.
  • Policy Initiatives: Expanding access to preventive care under national goals such as Healthy People 2030 can reduce disparities in cancer outcomes (Healthy People 2030, n.d.).
  • Community-Based Programs: Faith-based and local organizations can host men’s health events to promote awareness and provide free or low-cost screenings.

What Men and Families Can Do

  • Know Your Risk: Men over 50—or over 45 for those at higher risk—should discuss screening options with their doctor.
  • Adopt Healthy Habits: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco may lower overall cancer risk.
  • Encourage Conversations: Families and partners can help men feel more comfortable discussing health concerns.
  • Use Trusted Resources: Organizations like the CDC and American Cancer Society provide evidence-based guidance on prostate cancer prevention and care.

Conclusion
Prostate cancer is a leading threat to men’s health, but it doesn’t have to be. With early detection, informed choices, and strong community support, men can take proactive steps to protect their health and lives.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). What is prostate cancer? https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Cancer prevention and screening. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Maternal Mental Health: Breaking Barriers to Care

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Becoming a mom is life-changing, but it isn’t always easy. Many women experience postpartum depression, anxiety, or though less common postpartum psychosis after giving birth. These challenges are more common than most people realize, yet too often moms suffer in silence because of stigma, missed screenings, or not having access to care that feels supportive and culturally understanding. The truth is that untreated maternal mental health struggles don’t just affect moms, they can also impact babies and the whole family’s well-being (CDC, 2024).

Magnitude of the Problem

Approximately 20% of women experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder, yet fewer than half receive treatment (CDC, 2024). The consequences are profound: children of mothers with untreated depression may face developmental, behavioral, and emotional challenges. Maternal suicide, though often preventable, remains a leading cause of death in the first year after birth (Healthy People 2030, n.d.). Additionally, structural barriers, such as cost, lack of transportation, and limited provider availability disproportionately affect women in low-income and minority communities, compounding existing health disparities (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2023).

Solutions

  • Healthcare Integration: Universal screening for perinatal mental health disorders during prenatal visits, postpartum check-ups, and pediatric appointments can increase early detection.
  • Community-Based Programs: Local organizations can create safe spaces for peer support, parenting groups, and culturally sensitive counseling services that reduce stigma.
  • Policy & Systems Change: Expanding insurance coverage for maternal mental health services and investing in maternal health equity initiatives are essential steps. The Healthy People 2030 framework highlights reducing maternal morbidity and improving access to timely mental health care as national priorities (Healthy People 2030, n.d.).

What Families and Communities Can Do

  • Recognize Risk Factors: Women with a history of depression, limited social support, or stressful life events are at higher risk. Families should remain attentive to these signs.
  • Encourage Open Dialogue: Normalizing conversations about maternal mental health helps reduce stigma. Partners and relatives play a crucial role in encouraging women to seek care.
  • Leverage Resources: The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-9-HELP4MOMS) and local health departments provide 24/7 confidential support.
  • Advocate Locally: Communities can advocate for expanded maternal mental health services at hospitals and clinics, especially in underserved areas.

Conclusion

Maternal mental health is a cornerstone of women’s health and family well-being. By addressing barriers to care, investing in culturally tailored services, and fostering supportive environments, we can create a future where every mother has the resources she needs to thrive.

References

Bureau of Justice Statistics. (2023). Indicators of health disparities in the United States. https://bjs.ojp.gov

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Depression among women. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/depression/index.htm

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Maternal, infant, and child health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Schools as Pillars for Healthy Families in Violent Urban Areas: Spotlight on Alabama

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Urban violence and child maltreatment are pressing concerns in Alabama. In 2021, the state investigated 26,116 reports of child abuse or neglect, underscoring widespread exposure to trauma (Associated Press, 2024).

Magnitude of the Problem

Nationally, about 60% of children are exposed to violence each year, and nearly 40% endure two or more violent acts (Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention [OJJDP], 2009). In Alabama, child abuse and neglect rank as the state’s ninth leading health indicator (Alabama Department of Public Health [ADPH], 2020). Reports of maltreatment rose from 8,466 in 2015 to 12,158 in 2018, reflecting a concerning upward trend (ADPH, 2024).

How Violence Impacts Alabama Families

Children exposed to violence are at increased risk of anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and poor academic performance (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2024a). In Alabama, repeated exposure to maltreatment contributes to cycles of trauma that strain family health and community well-being (Associated Press, 2024).

How Schools Can Lead Change

1. Create Safe, Trauma-Informed Environments

Schools provide stability through predictable routines, supportive staff, and safe spaces—protective factors that buffer children from the adverse effects of violence (CDC, 2024a).

2. Expand Access to Mental Health and Family Support

Nearly 1 in 5 children exposed to violence show symptoms of PTSD (OJJDP, 2009). Schools can expand access to counselors and social workers, host workshops on coping strategies, and connect caregivers with trauma-informed parenting resources.

3. Strengthen School-Family Partnerships

Parent engagement nights and awareness campaigns help families recognize and respond to signs of child maltreatment (Associated Press, 2024).

4. Build Local and Justice Partnerships

The DOJ highlights that preventing youth violence requires collaboration among schools, law enforcement, and community organizations (OJJDP, 2009). Alabama schools can partner with child protective services and community centers to provide wraparound support.

Conclusion

With rising child maltreatment reports and community violence risks, Alabama schools serve as anchors of hope. By creating safe spaces, expanding services, and working alongside families and justice partners, schools can lead families toward resilience—even in violent urban neighborhoods.

References

Alabama Department of Public Health. (2020). State health assessment: Health indicator 9—Child abuse and neglect. https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/healthrankings/assets/2020_sha_health_indicator_9.pdf

Alabama Department of Public Health. (2024). Child abuse and neglect. https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/healthrankings/child-abuse-and-neglect.html

Associated Press. (2024, April 16). Alabama investigated 26,116 reports of child abuse or neglect in 2021. AP News. https://apnews.com/article/ebdd321ec237298c9972b042e55ff303

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024a). About community violence. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/community-violence/about/index.html

Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. (2009). Children’s exposure to violence: A comprehensive national survey. U.S. Department of Justice. https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/program/programs/cev

Why Men’s Health (Age 25–45) Matters in Alabama

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Men in their mid-20s to mid-40s are in peak working and parenting years, yet Alabama’s overall life expectancy is among the nation’s lowest (72.0 in 2021), signaling preventable health loss (CDC/NCHS). Among U.S. males 25–44, leading threats include unintentional injury, suicide, homicide, and heart disease. These conditions are largely preventable or manageable with timely care (CDC/NCHS). Alabama also faces high drug overdose mortality (31.5 per 100,000), and suicide among men continues to rise nationally, with firearms the leading method (CDC). Safety matters too: recent federal victimization data show changes in reporting and persistent risks for male victims of violence, underscoring the need for prevention and support.

Solutions that Work

  • Preventive care first. Annual checkups; blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes screening; vaccinations (flu, COVID-19, Tdap); and substance-use screening can catch problems early (CDC).
  • Injury and overdose prevention. Buckle up, don’t mix driving with alcohol or drugs, use protective gear at work/fitness, store medications and firearms safely, and keep naloxone if opioids are in the home (CDC).
  • Mental well-being. Normalize stress, depression, and anxiety screening; learn firearm-injury prevention and suicide risk signs; seek counseling or peer support (CDC).
  • Violence prevention. Engage in community programs, report victimization, and connect with services for survivors—approaches linked to safer communities (BJS).

What You Can Do This Month

  • Book a primary-care visit and ask for BP, cholesterol, diabetes, and mental-health screening (CDC).
  • Audit safety: seatbelts, helmets, ladder/work practices, and secure firearm storage (CDC).
  • Secure meds and add naloxone to your first-aid kit if anyone uses opioids (CDC).
  • Build a support team: a doctor, a counselor or chaplain, a workout buddy, and one friend you can call at any hour.
  • Know where to report and get help after a crime; encourage peers to report as well (BJS).
  • Strong bodies, steady minds, and safer communities are achievable; starting with small, consistent steps today.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024a). Mortality in the United States, 2022 (Data Brief No. 492). https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db492.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024b). US state life tables, 2021 (NVSR 73[7]). https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr73/nvsr73-07.pdf

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.-a). Alabama — State data. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/states/alabama/al.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.-b). Injuries and violence are leading causes of death (WISQARS). https://wisqars.cdc.gov/animated-leading-causes/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024c). Suicide mortality in the United States, 2002–2022 (Data Brief No. 509). https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db509.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024d). PLACES: Prevention measure definitions. https://www.cdc.gov/places/measure-definitions/prevention.html

Bureau of Justice Statistics. (2024). Criminal victimization, 2023 (NCVS). https://bjs.ojp.gov/document/cv23.pdf

Raising Resilient Families Amid Urban Violence

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Urban violence can be a daily stressor for many families. Research shows that about 60% of American children are exposed to violence, crime, or abuse at home, school, or in their community, and nearly 40% experience two or more violent acts in a single year (Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention [OJJDP], 2015). Children in low-income urban neighborhoods are at even greater risk (Finkelhor et al., 2015).

The Impact

Exposure to violence increases the likelihood of anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and post-traumatic stress disorder (Healthy People 2030, n.d.). These effects may continue into adulthood, influencing education, relationships, and health outcomes.

Evidence-Based Strategies

1. Leverage Prevention Frameworks.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2024a) recommend community-wide strategies such as promoting safe physical environments, engaging trusted adults, and supporting at-risk youth.

2. Strengthen Family Protective Factors.
Safe, stable, and nurturing relationships help buffer children from harmful effects of violence (CDC, 2024b). Families play a critical role in creating emotional security and resilience.

3. Support Through Policies and Community Solutions.
Combining mental health services, economic supports, and community partnerships is key to long-term solutions (CDC, 2024a).

What Parents Can Do

  • Build stability at home. Keep routines predictable and maintain open communication.
  • Use available resources. Parenting programs and community violence prevention initiatives, such as those highlighted by the CDC, can provide guidance and support (CDC, 2024a).
  • Advocate for change. Support policies that increase affordable housing, safe schools, and accessible mental health care.
  • Stay connected. Lean on schools, churches, and local groups for social and emotional support.

Conclusion

While urban violence creates significant challenges, parents can foster resilience by providing stability, nurturing relationships, and connecting to trusted community resources. Evidence shows that even in violent environments, strong family and community support can help children thrive.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024a). Community violence prevention: Resource for action. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/community-violence/prevention/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024b). About community violence. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://www.cdc.gov/community-violence/about/index.html

Finkelhor, D., Turner, H., Shattuck, A., & Hamby, S. (2015). Children’s exposure to violence, crime, and abuse: An update. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. https://ojjdp.ojp.gov/sites/g/files/xyckuh176/files/pubs/248547.pdf

Healthy People 2030. (n.d.). Children exposed to violence. Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. https://health.gov/healthypeople

Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. (2015). Children’s exposure to violence, crime, and abuse: An update. U.S. Department of Justice. https://www.ojp.gov/program/programs/cev