Wildcat Alumni Spotlight:
Crystal Ayala
After graduating from Wildcat in 2020, Crystal took some time off during the pandemic. She is now enrolled full-time at Hostos Community College in the Bronx where she is studying to become a Dental Hygienist. So far, she loves being in college. Crystal shares that she was nervous to go to college because she thought it would be hard, but the professors and staff have been very helpful and encouraging for her to succeed. Aside from school, Crystal works as a Front Desk Associate at a gym. She appreciates the opportunity to build her skills in customer service.
Crystal is most proud of “...pushing myself to pursue more education.”
Crystal's advice for current Wildcats: “Don’t give up, just finish school. It will be worth it.”
If you know of or are, yourself a Wildcat Superstar Alum who would like to share an inspiring story with our community, we would love to hear from you! Email counseling@jvlwildcat.org
Social Media & its Link to Depression Amongst Youth
Psychologist Jean Twenge, a professor at San Diego University, has found that young girls who spend 5+ hours a day on social media were 3 times as likely to be depressed. Dr. Twenge notes that young boys tend to spend more time playing video games whereas girls are scrolling social media, and this seems to cause more depression. Additionally, because teenagers are spending so much time on their screens, their social interaction is decreasing and they are less independent than previous generations. Other negative side effects include decrease in sleep and exercise, as well as more social comparisons and lower self-esteem, especially when it comes to body image.
Nevertheless, there are some positive side effects of social media. For example, it can provide a sense of community for people that may be more introverted. Moreover, while no teenagers want their phones “taken away,” some say they do appreciate a break from their phones. According to Dr. Twenge, it is important to find a way to limit teenagers’ time on social media so we can help protect their overall mental and emotional health.
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Resource of the Month:
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-TLC-MAMA) (1-833-852-6262) offers free confidential support to women before, during, and after pregnancy. Their mission is to help improve the health and well-being of America's mothers, children, and families. Professional counselors are available to help help 24/7. The goal of the NMMHH is to help all America's mothers and their families thrive and reach their full potential.
- They offer PHONE and TEXT support.
- Counselors are proficient in English and Spanish.
- Interpreter services are offered in 60 different languages.
- Culturally sensitive, nonjudgmental support is provided.
- TTY users can use a preferred relay service or dial 711 and then 1-833-852-6262.