Substance use disorder is a chronic, progressive and potentially fatal disease—and it’s especially concerning when it affects young people. What may start as recreational drug use, prescription drug misuse or binge drinking can quickly turn into an addiction.

Though many employer health plans have a prescription drug benefit, not all health plans cover all drugs. And some drugs are only covered after you’ve tried a different, preferred drug first. Adding to the confusion are copays and deductibles—even separate deductibles for some drugs.

For many of us, the winter months can be difficult. Despite the promise of a joyous holiday season, the combination of hosting and attending multiple events, dealing with complex family dynamics and feeling lonely can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety. Wrapping up end-of-year projects at work can also feel overwhelming. Plus, the shorter, colder days in fall and winter can contribute to Seasonal Affective Disorder, a common type of depression.

Though it’s perfectly normal to occasionally feel a little worried, anxious or even blue during pregnancy, you shouldn’t feel that way all the time. Up to 20% of pregnant women experience some degree of anxiety or depression, and research shows that a mother’s mental health can affect her baby while she is pregnant.

Caring for a friend or family member with a chronic illness or disability is a daunting task, and the work can feel all-consuming. Caregivers often neglect to take care of their own physical and emotional health, and they can feel so overwhelmed by the daily grind that they don’t reach out for help to lighten the load.

Though most of us are aware of how preventive care can reduce our risk of the three Ds—disease, disability and death—we may not fully know the types of health screenings and preventive opportunities that keep our bodies and minds in optimal shape.

With a vast majority of those with eating disorders between the ages of 12 to 25, early intervention is essential to increase the chances of recovery and reduce long-term health implications. Do you know what to look for when it comes to the risks and warning signs of eating disorders in young people? 

Diagnoses of depression and anxiety are more common with increased age, and many children go without needed mental health treatment. Learn how to identify warning signs of depression, when to seek help for your child and how to come up with a mental health safety plan.

Watch the recording below to learn about signs of anxiety in children and adolescents, practical coping strategies for children with anxiety, warning signs of behavioral health concerns, and home safety recommendations.

Whether they are using social media or playing on gaming sites, children and teens are using computers and mobile devices more than ever before—increasing the chances they could face cyberbullying. Watch our webinar to learn how to engage your child in cyber safety discussions.

Around 17% of children and adolescents experience anxiety and mood disorders, with the likelihood that even more cases are going unreported. Watch our webinar to learn best practices when a young person in your life is experiencing the onset of an emotional, mental or behavioral disorder.