1.Understanding the Root Causes of Unwanted Pregnancy Among Alabama Teens.

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Introduction

Teen pregnancy continues to be a pressing public health issue in Alabama, where young people between the ages of 13 and 21 face high rates of unintended pregnancy. Despite national declines, Alabama’s rates remain among the highest in the country. Understanding the root causes behind this issue is critical to implementing effective solutions that prevent early pregnancies and improve young people’s futures.

Social and Economic Factors Contributing to Teen Pregnancy

A significant factor influencing unwanted pregnancy in Alabama is poverty. Studies show that teens from low-income backgrounds are more likely to experience unintended pregnancies due to limited access to contraception, healthcare, and comprehensive sexual education (Guttmacher Institute, 2023). The financial burden on families often leads to early parenthood cycles, as young mothers struggle with economic instability, making it harder to break free from generational poverty.

Additionally, Alabama ranks among the lowest states for educational attainment, and there is a clear connection between education levels and pregnancy rates. Teen girls who do not complete high school are more likely to become pregnant than those who graduate (National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, 2023).

Lack of Access to Sexual Education and Reproductive Health Services

One of the most debated contributors to unwanted pregnancy in Alabama is the state’s approach to sex education. Many schools follow abstinence-only programs, which have been shown to be ineffective in reducing teen pregnancy rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), states that mandate comprehensive sex education see lower rates of teen pregnancy compared to those that rely solely on abstinence-based curricula (CDC, 2023).

Furthermore, access to birth control and reproductive healthcare remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas. Many young people lack affordable options for contraception, and the stigma around seeking reproductive healthcare further discourages them from accessing necessary services (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2022).

The Role of Family Dynamics and Cultural Expectations

Family dynamics also play a critical role in influencing teen pregnancy rates. In many Alabama communities, open discussions about reproductive health are still considered taboo, leaving young people without guidance. Research suggests that teens who have strong parental support and open communication about sexual health are less likely to experience unintended pregnancies (Guttmacher Institute, 2023).

Religious and cultural beliefs also shape attitudes toward pregnancy. In conservative regions, some communities discourage contraception and instead emphasize marriage and motherhood at a young age, which can lead to higher pregnancy rates among teens (Pew Research Center, 2023).

Conclusion: Addressing the Root Causes of Unwanted Pregnancy

To effectively reduce unwanted pregnancy among Alabama teens, a multifaceted approach is needed. Expanding access to comprehensive sex education, increasing affordability and availability of contraception, and fostering open family communication can all contribute to lowering pregnancy rates. Additionally, policymakers and community organizations must work together to address the broader socioeconomic factors that place young people at risk. By tackling these root causes, Alabama can create a healthier future for its youth.

Credible Sources:

  • Guttmacher Institute. (2023). State Policies in Brief: An Overview of Abortion Laws. Retrieved from www.guttmacher.org
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Teen Pregnancy Prevention. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov
  • Pew Research Center. (2023). Religion and Public Life. Retrieved from www.pewresearch.org
  • National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy. (2023). Teen Pregnancy Data. Retrieved from www.powertodecide.org
  • American Academy of Pediatrics. (2022). Barriers to Adolescent Reproductive Health. Retrieved from www.aap.org

Feria de Salud Revive on Noviembre 2, 2024 at 10:00am – 2:00pm

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En Espanola
El Laboratorio de Bienestar de Wilkinson se complace en asociarse con el Programa de Salud y Servicios Humanos Comunitarios de la UAB y la Iglesia Vida Cristiana en apoyo de la Feria de Salud Revive el sábado 7 de octubre de 2023. La feria de salud se llevará a cabo en 2490 Valleydale Road y se llevará a cabo de 9 a. m. a 1 p. m. Como recurso para la feria de salud, el Laboratorio de Bienestar de Wilkinson ofrece:

  • Detección de presión arterial,
  • Lectura del índice de masa corporal,
  • Lectura del porcentaje de grasa corporal y
  • Lectura del porcentaje de músculo esquelético

Para obtener más recursos que le ayuden a alcanzar sus objetivos de peso general, haga clic en los enlaces siguientes:

Alimentación saludable para adultos: https://www.myplate.gov/es/tip-sheet/alimentacion-saludable-para-adultos

Alimentación saludable para niños: https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/healthy-eating-family-tips-esp.pdf

In English

The Wilkinson Wellness Lab is excited to partner with the UAB Community Health & Human Services Program and Christian Life Church in support of the Revive Health Fair on Saturday, October 7, 2023. The health fair is located at 2490 Valleydale Road and will take place 9am – 1pm. As a resource for the health fair, the Wilkinson Wellness Lab is providing:

  • Blood pressure screening,
  • Body Mass Index reading,
  • Body Fat percentage reading, and
  • Skeletal muscle percentage reading

For more resources in support of achieving your overall weight goals, please click on the links below:

Food

Physical Activity

Sleep

Body Mass Index

https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/adult_bmi/

Join the conversation on Facebook or in the comments section. Have you lost weight over a process? What did you do lose weight? How long did the weight loss take you? How was your experience? Please share with family and friends.

Restful sleep supports reduced stress. Let’s try it for ourselves

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By the Wilkinson Wellness Lab

Are we trying to stay up so we can cram for the test? Perhaps we hung out too late and now we are feeling it in the morning. Maybe we drank to much Starbucks and we want to go to sleep, but just can’t. Or perhaps, we are a little worried about the paper that needs to be written and it is haunting us…no sleep. Either way, are sleep is impacted, which is still detrimental to our ability to cope with stress and support our mental health.

According to a study by Scott et al. (2021), improving sleep quality leads to better mental health. Other organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Sleep Foundation, also suggest the connection is relevant and asserts the connection to how we handle stress. Thusly, to improve mental health and stress management, it is a good idea to practice a sleep routine. A sleep routine is a a set of activities you do before bed each night to help you fall asleep. Some steps to include in creating your sleep routine may involve:

Setting a consistent sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends to support your body’s rhythm.

Create a relaxing bedtime routine: Engage in calming activities before bed. Activities may include reading, warm baths, deep breathing exercises and meditation.

Create a calming sleep environment: Ensure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet. If needed, invest in an eye cover or ear plugs to limit noise and intrusions.

Limit exposure to screen: Reduce blue light exposure from phones, tablets, and computers at least an hour before bedtime.

Monitor your diet before bed: Avoid large meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime. These can disrupt your sleep cycle.

Be active during the day: Regular physical activity can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper sleep. But try not to work-out close to bedtime.

Stress management: Techniques like placing your thoughts out of your head and elsewhere (i.e., journaling), yoga, and mindfulness can help reduce stress prior to your bedtime.

Have you tried these techniques above? If so, how did you do it? If not, what is hindering you from trying? Perhaps you tried, but when times became stressful, so stop working to solidify your routine. What next steps do you suggest? Please share your thoughts in the comment section and or visit us on Facebook @WilkinsonWellnessLab.

UAB Community Health & Human Services Program sponsors National Health Education Week 2024

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Please join the UAB Community Health & Human Services (CHHS) Program at our mental health and wellness outreach table on Tuesday, October 22nd (10am – 1pm). We will have a few items in support of overall student health and well-being, while also equipping ourselves with mental wellness techniques to exercise through the remainder of the semester. Check us out in the Education & Engineering Complex (EEC). See the flyer below.

Please join the UAB Community Health & Human Services (CHHS) Program and have a good time ‘moving’ at the School of Education & Human Sciences “Trunk or Treat” event on Tuesday, October 24th (5:00pm – 6:30pm). The CHHS Program will provide the sounds that keep you ‘moving and grooving’ as you visit different trunks to get your treats. Come out and play corn hole, dance in streets, and get some candy. We will have a few items in support of overall student health and well-being. Check us out in the Education & Engineering Complex (EEC). See the flyer below.

Tips for Physical, Mental, & Emotional Well-Being

To learn more about National Health Education Week, please visit the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) website, here. To learn more about emotional wellness in the United States of America, please visit the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) weblink, here. Regarding ones physical health, the CDC recommends the following, here.

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

Supporting local efforts, the Revive Health Fair on October 7, 2023

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The Wilkinson Wellness Lab is excited to partner with the UAB Community Health & Human Services Program and Christian Life Church in support of the Revive Health Fair on Saturday, October 7, 2023. The health fair is located at 2490 Valleydale Road and will take place 9am – 1pm. As a resource for the health fair, the Wilkinson Wellness Lab is providing:

  • Blood pressure screening,
  • Body Mass Index reading,
  • Body Fat percentage reading, and
  • Skeletal muscle percentage reading

For more resources in support of achieving your overall weight goals, please click on the links below:


Food

Physical Activity

Sleep

Body Mass Index

https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/bmi/adult_bmi/

Join the conversation on Facebook or in the comments section. Have you lost weight over a process? What did you do lose weight? How long did the weight loss take you? How was your experience? Please share with family and friends.