Publication offers guide to the physical and mental health of area children and teens.
It’s common practice for newspapers to publish special sections that correspond with seasonal events and special occasions. Editions concerning health-related issues, such as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October or Heart Month in February are important to newspaper readers. May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. With that in mind, the Wilkes-Barre Times Leader has published a unique, new health and wellness supplement focused exclusively on kids, teens and young adults.
“Growing Stronger” is a physical and mental health guide created to cover a wide range of topics affecting school-age children and teens today, including:
- Stress Management
- Healthy Eating
- Physical Activity
- Mental Health Awareness
- Peer Relations
- Academic Pressure
- Substance Abuse Prevention
- Sleep Hygiene
- Sexual Health
- Digital Well-being
The 28-page tabloid is a direct mail piece sent to parents throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. It is also distributed to Times-Leader e-mail subscribers and is available on the website.
Inside, readers can find useful information in print and through QR codes on local services providing specialized treatment in the fields of physical and mental health. There are also links to family support centers, crisis hotlines and community organizations that assist parents and children in need.
According to Times Leader publisher Kerry Miscavage, the special section helps the paper reach its goal in providing content that is relevant to the needs of the community. “NEPA offers a lot of resources to help children and families navigate physical and mental health, but it is our job to make sure information on these resources are accessible and free”, she said. “Growing Stronger is just the starting point on how the Times Leader can provide stories and vital information to help our community children thrive.”
Times-Leader editorial staff interviewed social workers, counselors, teachers, doctors and community leaders throughout the region. They wrote in-depth stories addressing subject matter important in the lives of young children and teens today, like healthy eating, sleeping well and monitoring digital screen time. No topic is off limits. Even subjects considered taboo for open discussion, such as sexual health and substance abuse prevention, are covered.
At the back of the guide, a multi-page directory lists local resources for parents and children. Services include childcare, community and counseling services, fitness centers, medical centers and educational resources. Although not an exhaustive list of all available options in the region, the Times Leader considers it a great starting point.
For local newspapers, service to their community is sacrosanct. They not only keep the populace informed with trustworthy, reliable news, but they can bind and rally a community around a special cause or purpose. The Wilkes-Barre Times Leader once again stands at the forefront of this effort. “Growing Stronger” is a truly valuable and educational resource created to help improve the lives of families and neighbors of Northeastern Pennsylvania.