Toastmasters: Bridging the Digital Divide with Communication

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by Evan Hudson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by Henri Mathieu-Saint-Laurent on Pexels.com

How has campus life been since the pandemic? Are you happy to see your peers again and enjoy in-person activities, or have you struggled to reconnect? You’re not alone – many students are dealing with increased anxiety, low self-esteem, and lack of motivation to engage socially and academically (Acosta-Gonzaga, 2023; Hu et al., 2022). COVID-19 pushed digital communication forward, but many now find in-person interactions more difficult. How can we get back to the basics and talk to each other again?

Research in second language acquisition shows that language “output” (speaking, writing, typing) can boost confidence (Muhajir & Sri Redjeki, 2018). Public speaking, often ranked as a top fear, is one way to promote this. You may not be learning a second language, but what if you could join a supportive community to practice and improve your speaking skills?

A Comfortable Place to Practice Speaking Skills
Toastmasters International is a global public speaking club, and its University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) chapter is growing fast. The club helps you build confidence in communication through a stress-free environment. We work on everything from body language to eye contact, with personalized learning “Pathways” that focus on your needs. We often tell our members that “half of life if how you talk to people,” and we know that if you can speak to an audience, you can speak to an individual. Public speaking can help you become more comfortable with meetings, job interviews, and many other in person or digital interactions.

“Toastmasters helped me prepare for presentations in my graduate program. Those skills carried over into my professional career, and I present almost every week” – Former Graduate Student

Toastmasters at UAB can allow for one to grow professionally and connect with like-minded individuals from around the world. Plus, the confidence one can build in Toastmasters can carry over to conversations with friends, peers, and family. Visitors are welcome to attend meetings for free. We meet at UAB’s Bevill Biomedical Research Building (Room 170) on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 5:30 PM, and hold a hybrid meeting on the 3rd Monday of each month. To learn more about Toastmasters at UAB, please visit uab.toastmastersclubs.org. I hope to see you there!

References
Acosta-Gonzaga, E. (2023). The effects of self-esteem and academic engagement on university students’ performance. Behavioral Sciences, 13(4), 348. https://doi.org/10.3390/bs13040348

Hu, K., Godfrey, K., Ren, Q., Wang, S., Yang, X., & Li, Q. (2022). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college students in USA: Two years later. Psychiatry Research, 315, 114685. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114685

Ibrahim, I. W., & Shahabani, N. S. (2020). THE USE OF PUBLIC SPEAKING TO PROMOTE CONFIDENCE IN LEARNING ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE. European Journal of English Language Teaching, 6(1).

Muhajir, R., & Sri Redjeki, I. (2018). Public speaking activities to improve students’ speaking skills. ENGLISH JOURNAL, 12(1), 39. https://doi.org/10.32832/english.v12i1.3769 Wang, Y., & Liu, J. (2024). The impact of COVID-19 on international students: A qualitative synthesis. British Journal of Educational Studies, 72(6), 805–829. https://doi.org/10.1080/00071005.2024.2374077

The Stigma Around Therapy: Breaking the Silence

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By Jaslyn Bush | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by Antoni Shkraba Studio on Pexels.com

In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of mental health issues and the importance of seeking therapy. However, despite progress in raising awareness, a significant stigma still surrounds mental health therapy, preventing many individuals from seeking the help they need.

The stigma around therapy often stems from societal misconceptions and stereotypes. Many people still believe that seeking mental health therapy is a sign of weakness or that it is only for those with severe mental illnesses (Corrigan, 2004). This perception is far from the truth. Therapy can be a valuable tool for anyone facing life’s challenges, whether they are dealing with stress, relationship issues, or personal growth.

The Impact of Stigma
Stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help, leading to untreated mental health issues that can worsen over time (Vogel, Wade, & Haake, 2006). Additionally, the fear of being judged or misunderstood can cause individuals to suffer in silence, further exacerbating their struggles. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), there are 3 kinds of stigma:

Public Stigma: This stigma can be described as negative and inaccurate attitudes about a mental illness from the public (Singhal, 2024). There is a fear that one may experience discrimination i employment, housing, health care, etc. due to one being diagnosed with a mental illness.

Self-Stigma: This includes negative attitudes, including internalized shame of their condition. Self-stigma can lead to lower self-esteem issues and reduce self-confidence.

Structural Stigma: Involves policies of government and private organizations that intentionally or unintentionally limit opportunities for people for people with mental illness (Singhal, 2024). If the federal government or state and local municipalities reduce funding for mental health services and programs, then individuals in need of care will not have less opportunity to receive the care and support they need.

Breaking the Silence
To combat the stigma around therapy, professionals in health and human services must promote open and honest conversations about mental health. Education is key; providing accurate information about the benefits of therapy and debunking common myths, in order to change societal attitudes (Corrigan & Watson, 2002). Additionally, sharing personal stories and experiences can help normalize therapy and encourage others to seek help.

The stigma around therapy is a significant barrier to mental health care. By understanding its roots, recognizing its impact, and taking steps to promote open conversations, we can work towards a society where seeking therapy is thought of as a sign of strength and self-care. If you or someone you know has experienced challenges with mental and emotional health, consider sharing your thoughts and perspectives in the comments below and engage with us on Facebook at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab.

References

Corrigan, P. W. (2004). How stigma interferes with mental health care. American Psychologist, 59(7), 614-625. 

Corrigan, P. W., & Watson, A. C. (2002). Understanding the impact of stigma on people with mental illness. World Psychiatry, 1(1), 16-20. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1489832/)

Vogel, D. L., Wade, N. G., & Haake, S. (2006). Measuring the self-stigma associated with seeking psychological help. Journal of Counseling Psychology, 53(3), 325-337. [

Kalkbrenner, M. T., & Esparza, S. (2022). Barriers to seeking counseling among a national sample of U.S. physicians: The revised fit, stigma, and value scale. The Professional Counselor, 15(2), 123-137.

Melnyk, B. M., Kelly, S. A., & Jacobson, D. (2020). Reducing stigma and promoting mental health in healthcare professionals: An integrative review. Journal of Nursing Management, 28(5), 1020-1030.

Singhal, N. (2024, March). Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination Against People with Mental Illness. American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination

Balancing Screen Time for Healthier Family Connections

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by Tiana Lopez | UAB Community Health and Human Services Program (Student)

Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels.com

In many homes across the Southeast, families may spend evenings under the same roof yet feel worlds apart, each absorbed in their own screens. Phones, tablets, and televisions can provide entertainment and even educational opportunities, but when they begin to replace conversations and shared activities, the impact on parent–child relationships can be concerning.

Studies show that when parents spend too much time on their phones during family activities, they become less emotionally responsive to their children. This lack of responsiveness can leave children feeling overlooked or unimportant and over time may weaken trust and closeness (American Psychological Association, 2025). A recent review also found a two-way relationship between screen use and children’s well-being. Excessive screen time can contribute to emotional and behavioral difficulties, while children who already struggle emotionally are more likely to use screens as a way to cope (Ebert, 2025).

The Southeast is known for its close-knit communities and strong family values, but heavy screen use has the potential to interfere with these traditions of connection. When children feel like devices are competing with them for their parents’ attention, it affects their sense of security and belonging. These feelings can spill into other areas of life, influencing school motivation, friendships, and emotional health.

Fortunately, technology does not need to divide families. The key is balance. Parents can model healthy habits by creating intentional device-free times. Eating meals together without screens or planning one evening each week for family activities such as games, outdoor walks, or simple conversation can reinforce that family time matters. These small steps help children feel valued and show that relationships are a priority.

Parents sometimes worry that children will resist screen limits or that routines will be disrupted. However, research shows that when changes are explained with warmth and consistency, children adapt more quickly than expected. Framing these new routines as fun opportunities for connection rather than as restrictions makes children more willing to participate (Nagata et al., 2024).

Screens are a permanent part of modern life, but they do not have to dominate relationships. By setting aside moments for genuine connection, parents can strengthen bonds, improve communication, and reassure their children that they are more important than any device.

As a parent, how do you ensuring engaging with your children and managing your screen time? As a child, how do you unplug and ensure that you are not spending too much time on screen? Please share your comments below and engage with the article at the Wilkinson Wellness Lab on Facebook.

References:

Screen time and emotional problems in kids: A vicious circle? (2025, June 9). https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2025/06/screen-time-problems-children?utm_source=

Morgan Ebert, Managing Editor. (2025, June 13). Study links screen time to socioemotional problems in children, with bidirectional effects. Contemporary Pediatrics.
https://www.contemporarypediatrics.com/view/study-links-screen-time-to-socioemotional-problems-in-children-with-bidirectional-effects?utm_source=

Nagata, J. M., Paul, A., Yen, F., Smith-Russack, Z., Shao, I. Y., Al-Shoaibi, A. a. A., Ganson, K. T., Testa, A., Kiss, O., He, J., & Baker, F. C. (2024). Associations between media parenting practices and early adolescent screen use. Pediatric Research. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-024-03243-y

Empowering ourselves to tackle food insecurity in Alabama

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by Haleigh Horton | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Student

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Food insecurity is a significant issue affecting communities across the United States, including Alabama’s Black Belt region. In addition to compromising physical health, lack of access to nutritious food exacerbates socioeconomic disparities. Building
healthier, more resilient communities requires understanding the root causes of food insecurity and implementing sustainable
solutions.

There are significant barriers to accessing affordable, nutritious food in Alabama’s Black Belt. Several factors contribute to high
rates of food insecurity, including limited grocery options, transportation challenges, and economic hardship (Harris, 2023).
Because of this, many people consume low-quality, processed foods that are high in calories but lack essential nutrients, resulting in obesity, malnutrition, and chronic diseases.

Food insecurity needs to be addressed through a multifaceted approach that addresses all levels of influence. Among the measures include increasing economic opportunities, improving access to affordable, nutritious foods, and promoting community-level interventions such as urban gardening initiatives and farmers’ markets.

It’s important to note that individuals and families can make healthier food choices within their means by becoming aware of the importance of healthy eating and learning about nutrition and meal planning (Harris, 2023). Urban agriculture and community gardens: It is possible to increase access to fresh produce as well as empower residents to take control of their food supply by
setting up community gardens and urban farming initiatives in underserved areas (Harris, 2023). These initiatives not only provide nutritious food but also promote community engagement and sustainability.

Policy advocacy and food assistance programs provide essential food resources to vulnerable populations with food
assistance programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
(Harris, 2023). As a further step, develop policies that tackle systemic barriers to food access, such as food deserts and inequities in resource distribution.

To address the issue of food insecurity in Alabama’s Black Belt, it is imperative to take a holistic approach that addresses the underlying socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental factors that contribute to the problem. Thru the implementation of targeted interventions at multiple levels, we can build healthier, more resilient communities in which everyone has the opportunity to achieve their full potential and is able to access nutritious food.

How are you addressing food insecurity? What methods are you or your community using to combat food insecurity in your community. Share here and on our Facebook page at Wilkinson Wellness Lab.

References

Fielding, S. (2022, October 15). Food insecurity is tied to poor mental health. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/biden-administration-food-insecurity-poor-mental-health-6748799

Food insecurity: A year-round health concern. Andalusia Health. (2023, February 1). https://www.andalusiahealth.com/news/food-insecurity

Harris, S. (2023, November 1). Adequate access to nutritious food is associated with better health for people of all ages. Alabama’s Health. https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/blog/2023/11/sho-november.html#:~:text=While%20food%20insecurity%20affects%20all,white%
20Alabamians%20are%20food%20insecure.

Addressing substance misuse among young people: Supporting brighter futures

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By Haleigh Horton | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Student

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

Substance use among teenagers and adults is a serious public health issue that affects an individual’s health as well as the health of their families and communities. In 2022, an estimated 48.7 million individuals twelve and older had a substance use disorder, including 29.5 million experiencing alcohol use disorder (AUD) and 27.2 million experiencing drug use disorder (DUD), according to the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Teenagers and young adults may be particularly susceptible to the influence of drugs due to a variety of social, economic, and environmental factors (Morin, 2022). As a result of teenage and young adult substance abuse, it is important for society to promote healthy behaviors among youth, it is essential to implement preventive measures and interventions to combat the health and social issue.

According to the CDC (2022), young people may be at risk for substance use if experiencing risk factors like:

  • Family history of substance use
  • Favorable parental attitudes towards the behavior
  • Poor parental monitoring
  • Parental substance use
  • Family rejection of sexual orientation or gender identity
  • Association with delinquent or substance using peers
  • Lack of school connectedness
  • Low academic achievement
  • Childhood sexual abuse
  • Mental health issues

School-based preventive programs should be encouraged in our nation’s middle and high schools. These programs may promote positive peer relationships and effective decision-making, while educating them about the risks and consequences of substance abuse. Moreover, students can develop resilience and coping skills needed to navigate adolescence and resist substance abuse by incorporating social-emotional learning elements, such as empathy and self-awareness (ICF, 2022). It is also important for communities to provide support and resources for teenagers and their families by engaging local community organizations, religious institutions, and local leaders in an effort to create awareness about teenage drug use, as well as provide support and resources for those too (ICF, 2022). Counseling services, peer support groups, and recreational activities are also needed supports to address drug use among teenager and young adults (SAMHSA, 2023). Effective strategies to prevent drug use among young individuals is critical to ensuring the well-being of our communities.

We can help teenagers and young adults have a healthier future by implementing evidence-based prevention programs, creating supportive environments, and providing them with essential skills and resources. Advocacy and community involvement are essential to overcoming substance abuse challenges and fostering positive outcomes for future generations. So what do you think? Have you benefited from programming in schools? In college? Share here and on our Facebook page @Phame.US.Impact.

References:

Drug-free communities program successes | drug overdose | CDC injury center. (2023, October 23). https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/drug-free-communities/program-success.html

HHS SAMSHA release 2022 national survey on drug use and health data. (2023, November 13). https://www.samhsa.gov/newsroom/press-announcements/20231113/hhs-samhsa-release-2022-nsduh-data

High risk substance use in youth | adolescent and school health | CDC. (2023, March 24). https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/substance-use/index.htm

ICF (2022). Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program National Cross-Site Evaluation: End-of-Year 2022 Report. Washington, DC: Office of National Drug Control Policy.

Morin, A. (2022, January 9). Is your teen using drugs? look for these warning signs. Verywell Family. https://www.verywellfamily.com/teen-drug-use-
warning-signs-2606192

Parents and schools can work together to improve adolescent mental health

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By Travia Martin | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Although thought to be light and carefree, the adolescent years leading into adulthood are significant to the development of a child and their preparation into adulthood. From physical health, emotional health, mental health and other domains of wellness, these years are important as young people begin to take on adult like responsibilities. According to World Health Organization (n.d.), children ages 10-19 at some point may experience health issues related to the following poor hygiene, partaking in behaviors involving alcohol and drug use, unsafe sex, abuse, and teen pregnancy. While every area of health is important for the proper development of adolescents, mental health may be one of the categories often overlooked and underserved. For example, depression and anxiety have the most impact on this age group in relation to illness with suicide being the leading cause of death among those 15-19 (WHO, 2023). 1.1 million adolescents die each year, whether it be traffic accidents, violence, or self-inflicted harm.

School health programs should be championed and supported in middle and high schools to support adolescent development. Why? First, we should consider that in the U.S., fifty-six million students spend at least 6 hours a day at school, receiving social, physical, and intellectual development (CDC, 2021). Within your community, are you aware of the programs, activities, and group organizations that offer support to your middle and high school adolescence? Supplying mental health support and assistance within schools may elevate awareness, guidance and understanding of such complex health issues among adolescents. Additionally, social media plays a role in adolescent development, because young people see and do what they are taught or have learned, picked up through observational learning while constantly viewing social media on their electronic devices.

Whether you are a parent or an educator, there are several behaviors you can implement into your home, school, organization, etc. to help support and aid the development of adolescents and their mental health. Minor changes like spending more time engaging with young people through face-to-face conversation and allowing them to express their feelings mentally and emotionally, can aid positively to overall health and well-being (CDC, 2021). Removing teens and young adults from environments or locations that are toxic and filled with trauma to more peaceful and positive environments are also important. Supporting pro-social behaviors to express ones emotions such as art, writing, or even support groups involving peers of the same age is also important. Adolescent therapy and counseling are additional tools that can support the development of their mental health and create positive influence among their behaviors and actions (CDC, 2021).

What about you? Did you experience tough times during your adolescent years? What tips would you give to teenagers and young adults today? Leave a comment here or join the discussion at @WilkinsonWellnessLab on Facebook.

References:

Adolescent and young adult health. (n.d.). Www.who.int. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescents-health-risks-and-solutions#:~:text=Depression%20and%20anxiety%20are%20among

CDC. (2021, April 23). Mental health of children and parents—A strong connection. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/features/mental-health-children-and-parents.html

COVID-19 Pandemic Associated with Worse Mental Health and Accelerated Brain Development in Adolescents. (2023, January 26). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/science-news/2023/covid-19-pandemic-associated-with-worse-mental-health-and-accelerated-brain-development-in-adolescents#:~:text=The%20two%20groups%20differed%20significantly

National Library of Medicine. (2022). CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH. In http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK587174/

Why schools? | adolescent and school health | CDC. (2021, June 8). https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/about/why_schools.htm


Healthy habits while enjoying fun in the sun

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By Haleigh Horton | UAB Community Health & Human Services Program Student

Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels.com

As we approach spring and then move into the summer, it is important to begin considering again our exposure to the sun. Did you know that the beautiful rays that we get from sunlight may also pose a risk to yours and your child’s skin? Focusing on children, it is important to learn how sunshine can affect your child’s skin and learn simple steps to protect them. From wearing protective clothing to using sunscreen, these practices can safeguard your family from harm and promote a healthier sunshine habits. Specific to southern United States, where the sun’s warmth is abundant, it’s vital to be aware of the potential risks posed to children’s delicate skin from harmful UV exposure. Extended sun exposure can lead to various health issues, particularly for children with sensitive skin. The risks go beyond sunburn, encompassing long-term consequences such as premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

To protect children, proactive measures like wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours are important. Embracing sun protection practices ensures the enjoyment of the outdoors while minimizing potential harm to young skin, promoting a healthier future for our little ones. To turn these practices into habits, it is important to incorporate sun protection measures into your daily routine. Wearing protective clothing and adding sunscreen through daily when applying lotion not only reduce the risk of skin cancer, including severe forms like melanoma, but also prevent sunburn, signaling skin damage. Additionally, embracing sun protection promotes
overall skin health by maintaining moisture, preventing dryness, and minimizing premature aging. Sun protection is regarded has not only a benefit to ones long term health, but also is recognized as a part of one self-care regimen. Thusly, wearing wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves, becomes a proactive measure against harmful UV rays. Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (i.e., 30 SPF or higher) before outdoor activities (i.e., including school or extracurricular activities) offers an additional layer of defense. Seeking shade during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., becomes a strategic choice to minimize direct sun exposure.

As parents in the South, protecting our children from sun exposure is vital. During spring and summer months, let’s remember to cover up, use the right sunscreen, and be
mindful of peak sunlight hours. Understanding the risks of skin cancer and premature aging highlights the importance of consistent sun protection. By prioritizing sun safety, we contribute to our children’s long-term wellbeing, shaping a healthier future. Let’s champion our kids health together, ensuring our children thrive while under the sun and foster a culture of skin health awareness. For more information about, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) website on sun safety here. Do you have additional sun safe tips to share? If so, please share in the comments section here and/or share on a Facebook page @WilkinsonWellnessLab.

References

American Academy of Dermatology Association (n.d.). Sunscreen FAQs. https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen

Raymond-Lezman, J. R., & Riskin, S. (2023). Attitudes, Behaviors, and Risks of Sun Protection to Prevent Skin Cancer Amongst Children, Adolescents, and Adults. Cureus, 15(2), e34934. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.34934

Salvado, M., Fraga, A., Marques, D. L., Pires, I. M., Gonçalves, C. C., & Silva, N. M. (2021).
Sun Exposure in Pediatric Age: Perspective of Caregivers. Children (Basel, Switzerland),
8(11), 1019. https://doi.org/10.3390/children8111019

SickKids staff. (2024). What’s the best way to protect kids’ skin from sunburn?
HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/ask-the-pediatrician/Pages/whats-the-best-way-toprotect-kids-skin-from-sunburn.aspx