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Rising Heat
and Toxic Air — The Climate Burden on Gurgaon’s Children
- Kinga Hunyady.
Childhood in Gurgaon is increasingly shaped by
two converging climate pressures: extreme heat and hazardous air pollution.
Scientific assessments by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change confirm
that South Asia is experiencing more frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves
due to global warming. For children, this exposure carries disproportionate
health consequences. Their bodies heat up faster, dehydration sets in quicker,
and prolonged exposure raises risks of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Schools across the Delhi-NCR region—including
Gurgaon—have repeatedly altered schedules or suspended outdoor activities
during peak heat periods. Lost playtime is not trivial; pediatric health
research shows outdoor physical activity is essential for bone strength,
cardiovascular fitness, and cognitive development. Climate-driven heat is
quietly eroding these developmental foundations.
Air quality magnifies the threat. Gurgaon
falls within one of the world’s most polluted urban corridors, with monitoring
by the Central Pollution Control Board frequently recording “very poor” to
“severe” Air Quality Index levels. Climate change aggravates this pollution
load. Higher temperatures accelerate ground-level ozone formation, while
stagnant heat conditions trap particulate matter close to the surface.
The World Health Organization identifies air
pollution as a leading environmental risk to child health, linking it to asthma
onset, reduced lung growth, respiratory infections, and increased lifetime risk
of chronic disease. Evidence from the Lancet Countdown further shows that
children exposed to sustained pollution perform worse in school due to
illness-related absences and impaired concentration.
Thus, in Gurgaon, climate change is not a
distant environmental shift—it is a daily physiological stressor, constraining
movement, damaging lungs, and altering the rhythms of childhood itself.
Sources
IPCC Sixth Assessment Report (Heat Extremes, South Asia) • WHO Air Pollution
& Child Health • CPCB AQI Data (Delhi-NCR) • Lancet Countdown India Briefs
The Importance Of Student and Teacher Relationship?By Giada Fiordelmondo
Children are said to be like sponges. They learn from other people words, emotions or values, sometimes ways to do, to be, to speak. But if we observe it, both children and adults learn through relationships. One of the most important relationships for children is with their teacher because he teaches also with his/her way to do and talk. He or she transmits important values to create a healthy relationship and learn to work together like empathy, respect and coworking. Empathy: teacher understands student’s problem and looks for resolve with them. For example when a student doesn't understand some lessons and the teacher searches for a way to help him/her. It is through the teacher that the students learn empathy.
Respect for others and rules: there is time for listening to the lesson and time for playing and it’s important to establish the rules. Rules help us to make a quiet atmosphere.Teachers too have to respect them, only in this way students will comprehend the importance of their existence. Coworking: through it learning is easier because it becomes a work of everybody, where everyone is busy to co-work and understanding the lesson. Example: keeping silence during the lessons is a work of everybody or respect the speaking rounds as well. Studies show us how it is important being in supportive relationships is an important element for individual well-being, someone that believes in you, in your potential. In addition building supportive relationships make more positive results in work because the student feels stimulated to do better in homework and at school. Supportive relationships are like there is someone who cheers for his/her athlete and the latter is driven to do better. The School Psychology review published an article in 2023 where argued the importance of positive teacher-student relationships because it sets the stage for children’s success via classroom engagement, social functioning and academic skills development. Research reveals that positive teacher-student relationship predict positively student perceptions on discipline and being interested in it. Teachers’ prosocial classroom behaviors and being so supportive with students helped the teacher to keep a high quality education, because students have a good opinion of teachers.
In addition it is important to have the parent’s presence because in this way they feel involved in the education of the children. In this way the school and family are allied in the same direction for the same values. Since the beginning school wants to bring the value for sharing, compassion and helping each other. In according to this opinion is fundamental the help that a student give to other student. In fact it is studied that this way to learn is impressive, its name is “peer education” and helps also to create bonding between students. As Jackie Green says in the journal Promotion and
Education, peer education has an important influence on health related behavior, through their attitudes and normative expectations and as a source of advice and information.
In society there are many agencies that participate to grow a child, a person. First the family, then the school and the sport associations, extracurricular activities. More agency means more persons involved in a child's education and in this way children can learn from everybody they meet. This variety of agencies means that children find more space to grow up in, so it is important that they find their own way and time to grow without people siding with them.
According to this opinion the school is predominantly composed of students and teachers because they are the real actors of this environment. In the same way when children are in a sport association the actors of this environment are the trainer and the student. Parents can be the guide in life, but not participate at school’s life because for them there’s no place. So what can they do? Trust in a teacher's skill and knowledge. Obviously if there are any problems, they discuss them together.
Access to menstrual hygiene products is a basic necessity for girls and women worldwide, yet millions still struggle to afford or access these essential items. The Pads 4 Girls Project is an initiative dedicated to addressing this critical issue by providing free menstrual products to girls in need, primarily in low-income and underserved communities. This project plays a vital role in empowering girls, promoting education, and breaking the stigma around menstruation. Here’s why the Pads 4 Girls Project is so important:
1. Promoting Educational Equality
One of the most significant impacts of the Pads 4 Girls Project is on education. In many parts of the world, girls miss school during their periods due to a lack of access to sanitary products. This absence can accumulate to a significant loss of learning time, often leading to poor academic performance or even dropping out entirely. By providing menstrual products, the Pads 4 Girls Project helps keep girls in school, ensuring they have equal opportunities to learn and thrive alongside their male peers.
2. Improving Health and Hygiene
Lack of access to proper menstrual hygiene products can lead to serious health issues, including infections and reproductive health problems. Many girls resort to using unsafe alternatives like rags, leaves, or newspapers, which are unhygienic and uncomfortable. The Pads 4 Girls Project helps prevent these health risks by supplying safe, hygienic, and reliable menstrual products, promoting better overall health for young women.
3. Empowering Girls and Building Confidence
Menstruation can be a source of shame and embarrassment for many young girls, especially when they don’t have the resources to manage it discreetly and comfortably. The Pads 4 Girls Project not only provides necessary products but also plays a crucial role in boosting girls’ confidence. By ensuring that girls can manage their periods without fear of leaking or embarrassment, the project empowers them to participate fully in school, sports, and social activities.
4. Breaking the Stigma Around Menstruation
Cultural taboos and misinformation surrounding menstruation often prevent open discussions about menstrual health. This stigma can lead to shame, exclusion, and even discrimination against girls and women. The Pads 4 Girls Project works to normalize menstruation by providing education about menstrual health and hygiene. By distributing pads and starting conversations, the project challenges harmful stereotypes, fostering a more informed and supportive community.
5. Supporting Vulnerable Communities
Many girls in low-income communities, refugee camps, and rural areas face compounded challenges when it comes to menstrual hygiene. For families already struggling to meet basic needs, menstrual products are often an unaffordable luxury. The Pads 4 Girls Project directly addresses this gap, ensuring that the most vulnerable girls are not left behind. This support is crucial in helping these girls maintain their dignity, health, and education.
6. Encouraging Sustainable Solutions
Beyond immediate relief, the Pads 4 Girls Project often advocates for sustainable menstrual hygiene solutions, such as reusable pads or menstrual cups. These alternatives not only reduce the long-term costs for families but also lessen the environmental impact of single-use menstrual products. The project’s focus on sustainability educates girls on eco-friendly practices and helps build a more resilient future.
7. Fostering Gender Equality
Access to menstrual hygiene products is a fundamental aspect of gender equality. When girls can manage their periods safely and with dignity, they are better able to participate in all aspects of life. The Pads 4 Girls Project contributes to breaking down barriers that hold girls back, allowing them to pursue their dreams without the limitations imposed by menstruation.
Conclusion
The Pads 4 Girls Project is not just about providing pads—it’s about dignity, education, and empowerment. It’s about creating a world where every girl can manage her period without shame, where education is not interrupted by something as natural as menstruation, and where health and hygiene are accessible to all. By supporting the Pads 4 Girls Project, we are investing in a brighter, more equitable future for girls everywhere.
GENDER EQUALITY: Education for everyone to know who we are By Giada .
There is a slogan which says: “If you educate a man, you educate an individual; but if you educate a woman, you educate a family, a nation”. It was coined by Malcolm X, an African-American revolutionary, Muslim minister and human rights activist. It was a slogan that allowed educating many women. But how can we define education? Etymologically term comes from the Latin verb educĕre that is means «to draw out, "to take out" or "to take out what is inside".
In this way it is important that everyone has the opportunity to access education, so everyone can discover what is inside themselves. And discover that, it means knowing the person who he/she. We can see how education develops the person and the mind. Education with the environment around us increases the knowledge of a person and is more conscious ofthe surrounding world. If it was accessible and equal to everyone without gender, race, religious or any economic status distinctions, it would generate a civilised society, able to live healthy and in peace, encouraging integration. Hence education is what constitutes society built by people.
Dropout Rates in Schools in India In India important successes are joined to give opportunity to everyone to access primary and secondary school, to ensure that there is equality between males and females. Gender gaps in education have narrowed, but disparities remain, especially in rural areas. This is proof that when and where there are few resources to operate with you, you can not do much and to pay the consequences of it are the last, the poor people. In fact still often in India, women and girls, especially in these areas, are particularly affected by illiteracy.
If we see the report on the UN system in India, we can see that there is a good rate of completion in primary school. In fact in 2016 dropped out from primary school 11% of children. Between 2021-2022 the survey reveals the dropout is highest at the secondary level (9-10) with 12.6 percent, followed by upper primary (6-8) with 3 percent and primary (1-5) with 1.5 percent. The data further reveals that the dropout rate is higher for girls than boys at all levels of education. Dropout rates are often linked to socio-economic factors, poverty & lack of access to quality education. But for everyone, dropping out of school often means limited job opportunities and lower incomes, leading to poverty and other social problems. For society, a high dropout rate means a less educated workforce and lower productivity, which can have long-term effects on economic growth and development.
Why are girls dropout?
One of the reasons that girls do not complete school is because of their period. In these days they stay at home because not every school has separate toilets where they can change their pads in privacy. Many of them don’t have access to sanitary pads, so they use homemade napkins and it is more comfortable to change them at home. Further, for low-income users commercial pads are costly and low-cost pads have varying quality and reach.
One other reason is the distance from school. In rural areas is it possible secondary school is far and they could not have the allow to travel so far from home. We can see how girls are not educated for independence. In other, during the journey they risk experiencing violence and harassment.
Child marriage is one of the reasons because of they dropout to school. When a girl is married, depending on the new family if she can continue her studies, not all allow this.
From a survey made between 1992 - 2006 for some girls, marriage comes before the completion of the school, so before their 18th birthday. In some countries of India the incidence is still present but it is low, at 7%; in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh, it still has a high prevalence of 60%. In other, in rural areas the problem is getting worse than in the urban areas, with 56% and 29% prevalence respectively. In 2006 India proclaimed Prohibition of Child Marriage Act that for girls became legal to marry at 18 years and for boys at 21 years.
The consequences of dropout
For individuals, dropping out of school often means limited job opportunities and lower incomes, leading to poverty and other social problems. For society, a high dropout rate means a less educated workforce and lower productivity, which can have long-term effects on economic growth and development. Therefore dropout is a loss of opportunity to not grow minds and so people, that could be potential and create richness for the entire country. Historically, education for girls was considered irrelevant and superfluous for future wives and mothers and detrimental to male societal authority. The dominant view was that men were heads of patriarchal households. There is a general conviction that girl and women are first wives and mothers, this match in their family roles, so their education can benefit from their social status. For boys instead, their education seems more important to society and its families. Still today girl’s education comes after that of boy’s education.
So why do girls drop out of school? They register good results in school and the parents should be proud of them. Hence why they abandon it? Generally the girls that are forced to dropout, sometimes from the families, sometimes cannot support hohousehold hores with school.
What Indian Government did
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao is a programme launched in 2015 with the purpose to decline the differences between male and female and issues of women empowerment in their life. This project calls in action Ministries of Women and Child Development, Health & Family Welfare and Human Resource Development. After this initiative was born others aiming to increase awareness and various rallies have been organised with participation from various schools.
Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) is a programme to give to everyone the opportunity to receive elementary education in a time bound manner. In fact the Constitution of India has the purpose of making free and compulsory Education to the Children between 6-14 years age group, a Fundamental Right. The programme manages to open new schools in those areas which do not have schooling facilities and improve existing school infractures adding class rooms, drinking water, maintenance and improvement grants.
In other government offers scholarship to encourage families to send their daughters to school. Despite the many initiatives, gender equality in India remains a complex and difficult goal to achieve. Government continues to work on multiple fronts, but lasting change also requires a collective commitment from society to change the cultural norms and behaviours that perpetuate gender inequality.
Menstrual Hygiene Project Based on our Research Survey Results we conducted Workshop In Gurgaon and Delhi Schools. Followed by Gifts , Sanitary Pads , WASH Booklets and Menstrual Hygiene Posters To Schools and Children.
In India Gender Equality In social and education environment will create empowered women. Girls from poor families are also more likely to be subjected to child labor, early marriage, and other forms of exploitation, which limit their access to education. In Indian Gender Gap is POVERTY! Minimize the Gender Bias in the social and educational environments. Child Marriage Is A Crime . Together We Can Stop ! “Fighting For Gender Equality Is Not A Responsibility For Women Only. The Society Should Be Held Accountable For It Too. Gender Equality World Is A Better World. We At HEEALS Believe In Gender Equality “ -HEEALS .
Menstruation is a completely natural and normal biological process that nearly every woman experiences. So why is it surrounded in stigma and silence? Why are conversations about menstruation not as common as they should be?
For starters, from a young age girls are taught to hide their periods, especially from men. This causes many young girls to feel shameful of something that is not only natural, but beyond their control. This can cause self-esteem issues, and prevent a girl from fully embracing growing up.In addition to this, the media either completely avoids the topic of menstruation or portrays it using euphemisms, or delicate metaphors. Why are we tip-toeing around something that is completely normal? Should we not instead be celebrating this? This is the impactful event that turns a girl into a woman, and allows her to create life! Why do we place shame and stigma on such an event? Another thing contributing to the stigma surrounding menstruation is accessibility. In many countries a heavy tax is placed on menstruation products, making it inaccessible to many people. For example, in Kenya, there is a 16% tax on pads, making them a financial burden. This discourages the use of pads while simultaneously reinforcing the idea that menstruation is shameful and something to hide.Pads are a necessity, not a luxury.
They are necessary for a woman to manage her menstrual hygiene. They are comfortable while also absorbing menstrual flow, and preventing infections. However, in many developing countries and even some developed countries, pads are considered a luxury, not a necessity. As a result women are forced to use unsanitary alternatives such as rags, leaves, or even mud. This is extremely unsafe and can lead to infections that put their health at risk.We must prevent this by creating safe and healthy environments to discuss menstruation. We also must advocate for lower taxes on menstrual hygiene and ensure that women and girls can access the products and knowledge they need to manage their menstrual health.
In today's fast-paced world, maintaining healthy food habits is more crucial than ever. Good nutrition is foundational to overall well-being, influencing everything from physical health to mental sharpness. This article delves into the importance of healthy food habits, the benefits they offer, and practical tips for integrating them into daily life.
The connection between food habits and mental health has garnered increasing attention in recent years. Numerous studies highlight how our diet can significantly affect our mental well-being. Children’s mental health also depend on what they are consuming. Establishing healthy food habits in children is crucial for their growth, development, and long-term health. The dietary choices made during childhood can influence a child's health trajectory, affecting their physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
1. Understanding Healthy Food Habits:
* Consuming a variety of foods in the right proportions to obtain essential nutrients.
* Eating at regular intervals to maintain energy levels and metabolic function.
* Managing portion sizes to avoid overeating and ensure proper nutrition.
Food Habit is the foundation of lifelong health:
Adequate nutrition supports proper growth, bone development, and muscle formation. Nutrientrich foods provide essential vitamins and minerals crucial for these processes. Proper nutrition enhances cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and learning abilities. A balanced diet strengthens the immune system, reducing the risk of infections and illnesses. Nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and antioxidants play key roles in immune function.
2.Mindful Eating:
* Paying attention to the taste, texture, and smell of food can enhance the eating experience and help prevent overeating. Mindful eating encourages a greater appreciation for food and can reduce stress and emotional eating.
* Being aware to body's hunger and fullness signals can prevent overeating and promote a balanced diet, contributing to better mental health.
* Focusing on unprocessed foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins, can support mental well-being by providing essential nutrients and promoting overall health. Drinking enough water throughout the day is also important for maintaining mental alertness and a positive mood. Even mild dehydration can impair cognitive performance and exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress.
Establishing Healthy Eating Behaviours:
Children who develop healthy eating habits are more likely to make nutritious choices as adults. Parents play a significant role in shaping these behaviours.
* Children imitate the eating habits of adults around them. Parents should model healthy eating behaviours by consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods.
* Creating a positive food environment at home encourages children to try new foods. Offering a variety of healthy options and involving children in meal preparation can foster a love for nutritious foods.Healthy food habits contribute to mental and emotional well-being in children. Balanced meals with complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats provide steady energy levels, preventing mood swings and irritability.Healthy food habits are essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. The link between food habits and mental health is undeniable. By embracing a balanced diet, regular meal timing, and mindful eating practices, individuals can experience improved physical health, better mental clarity, and enhanced energy levels. Making small, sustainable changes to eating habits can lead to long-term benefits and a healthier lifestyle.
Healthy food habits are essential for the overall well-being of children. Proper nutrition supports growth, cognitive development, immune function, and emotional health. Making nutritious food enjoyable and involving children in the process can create lasting healthy habits that benefit them throughout their lives.
Water, our lifeblood on Earth, sustains everything from ecosystems to agriculture, and is fundamental to human survival. Yet, despite its vital importance, fresh water is a finite resource facing increasing pressures due to climate change, pollution, and overuse. To ensure a sustainable future, it is imperative that we adopt judicious practices in managing and utilizing water resources effectively.
The journey towards conserving water begins with each individual taking responsibility. Simple habits like turning off taps tightly, fixing leaks promptly, and using water-efficient appliances can significantly reduce household water consumption. These small actions, when practiced collectively, have a substantial impact in minimizing water wastage in our daily lives. Agriculture, as one of the largest consumers of water globally, plays a pivotal role in water conservation efforts. Farmers can adopt modern irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation and precision farming to optimize water use while maximizing crop yield. Additionally, the choice of drought-resistant crops and careful scheduling of planting can further reduce water demand in agriculture, ensuring sustainable practices for the future.
Industries also bear a responsibility in water conservation. Implementing technologies that recycle and reuse water within industrial processes not only conserves water but also reduces pollution of freshwater sources. Treating wastewater effectively before releasing it back into the environment is another critical step that industries can take to minimize their impact on water quality.
Government policies and regulations are essential in promoting responsible water management practices. Governments can incentivize the adoption of water-efficient technologies, establish water-saving standards for industries, and educate the public about the importance of water conservation through widespread awareness campaigns and educational programs. In urban areas, where population density and water demand are high, sustainable urban planning becomes paramount. Designing cities with green space permeable surfaces, and efficient water management systems such as rainwater harvesting can significantly alleviate pressure on municipal water supplies and reduce runoff into water bodies, thus promoting a more sustainable urban water cycle. International cooperation is also crucial, particularly in regions where water scarcity is a pressing issue. Collaborative efforts for transboundary water management and sharing best practices in water conservation can ensure equitable access to water resources for all nations involved, fostering peace and stability in regions where water disputes might arise.
In conclusion, the judicious use of water is not just a responsibility but a collective effort that we owe to future generations and the planet. By adopting water-saving practices in our daily routines, implementing efficient technologies in agriculture and industry, and advocating for sound water management policies at all levels, we can ensure that water remains a sustainable resource for all life on Earth. Let us envision a future where every drop of water counts in preserving life and ecosystems. Together, through individual actions and global collaboration, we can pave the way for a world where water scarcity becomes a thing of the past, and where sustainable water management practices ensure a thriving planet for generations to come.
Mental Health in Adolescents: Challenges and Solutions. - Aashi
Adolescence is a critical period characterized by significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes. Navigating these years can be challenging, and many young people face substantial mental health issues. Understanding these challenges and exploring effective solutions is crucial for promoting the well-being of adolescents.
Common Mental Health Challenges in Adolescents
1. Hormonal and Physical Changes: Adolescence is marked by significant hormonal fluctuations that can affect mood and behavior. The brain undergoes crucial development, particularly in areas related to emotion regulation and impulse control, leading to mood swings and heightened emotions. These changes can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
2. Academic Stress: The pressure to excel academically can be overwhelming for adolescents. High expectations from parents, teachers, and peers can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. The constant pressure to perform well in exams, complete assignments, and achieve high grades can negatively impact selfesteem and mental health.
3. Social Media Impact: The pervasive use of social media exposes adolescents to unrealistic standards of beauty and success, leading to feelings of inadequacy. Adolescents often compare themselves to curated and filtered images, which can result in low self-esteem and body image issues. Moreover, cyberbullying is a significant problem that can cause emotional distress and exacerbate mental health problems.
4. Family Dynamics: Family relationships play a crucial role in adolescent mental health. Conflict, lack of support, or a dysfunctional family environment can contribute to emotional problems. Adolescents from families experiencing divorce, financial instability, or substance abuse are at higher risk of developing mental health issues. A supportive and stable family environment is essential for the emotional well-being of adolescents.
5. Identity and Self-Image: Adolescence is a time of self-discovery and identity formation. Issues related to body image, sexual orientation, and gender identity can cause significant stress and confusion. Adolescents who feel misunderstood or unsupported in their identity may experience heightened levels of anxiety and depression. Acceptance and support from family and peers are crucial during this period.
6. Peer Pressure and Risky Behaviors: Peer pressure can lead adolescents to engage in risky behaviors, including substance abuse. Experimentation with drugs and alcohol can have serious mental health implications, including the development of addiction and exacerbation of underlying mental health conditions. Adolescents may also feel pressured to conform to group norms, which can lead to stress and anxiety. Solutions for Promoting Adolescent Mental Health
1. Encouraging Open Communication: Creating an environment where adolescents feel safe to express their feelings and concerns is vital. Parents, teachers, and peers should foster open and honest dialogue about mental health issues. Encouraging open communication can help identify problems early and provide the necessary support.
2. Mental Health Education: Integrating mental health education into school curricula can raise awareness and reduce stigma. Teaching adolescents about mental health, coping strategies, and available resources can empower them to take charge of their well-being. Mental health education can also help adolescents recognize the signs of mental health issues in themselves and others.
3. Access to Professional Help: Ensuring that adolescents have access to mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists, is crucial. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can prevent the escalation of mental health issues. Schools and communities should provide resources and support for accessing mental health services.
4. Building Resilience: Helping adolescents build resilience can equip them to handle stress and adversity more effectively. Encouraging healthy habits such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition can support overall mental health. Teaching stress management techniques, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, can also be beneficial.
5. Healthy Social Media Practices: Educating adolescents about the responsible use of social media and the potential dangers of cyberbullying can mitigate some of the negative impacts. Encouraging breaks from social media and promoting in-person interactions can also be beneficial. Adolescents should be taught to critically evaluate the content they see on social media and to recognize the difference between curated images and reality.
6. Parental Involvement: Parents play a key role in supporting their adolescent’s mental health. Being actively involved in heir lives, showing interest in their activities, and providing emotional support can make a significant difference. Parents should also be educated about the signs of mental health issues and how to respond appropriately. Creating a supportive home environment is essential for the well-being of adolescents.
7. Creating Supportive Environments: Schools and communities should strive to create environments that support mental health. Thisincludes having anti-bullying policies, providing safe spaces for discussions, and offering extracurricular activities that promote a sense of belonging and purpose. Supportive environments can help adolescents feel valued and understood.
8. Encouraging Peer Support: Peer support programs can be highly effective in promoting mental health. Adolescents often feel more comfortable discussing their issues with peers who understand their experiences. Peer-led support groups and mentoring programs can provide valuable assistance and create a sense of community. Encouraging peer support can help adolescents feel less isolated and more connected.
Conclusion
Adolescent mental health is influenced by numerous factors, including hormonal changes, academic pressure, social media, family dynamics, and identity formation. By fostering open communication, providing mental health education, ensuring access to professional help, and creating supportive environments, we can help adolescents navigate these challenges. Supporting our young people with the tools and understanding they need is essential for their healthy development and future wellbeing. As a society, it is our responsibility to support our adolescents and help them thrive during this critical period of their lives.
Peer Pressure: How Friends Shape Who We Are- Deepika It is said that we are the average of the five most closest people surrounding us. Hence you can say our friends shape us and we feel the need to keep up with them due to so called 'Peer pressure'. Peer pressure is a big deal—it’s all about how our friends influence us and how we fit in with our social circles. From teenage years all the way into adulthood, our friends have a huge impact on the decisions we make and even how we view ourselves.
At its heart, peer pressure is about fitting in and going along with what your friends are doing. Think of it like this: you might try something new or act a certain way just because everyone around you is doing it. This could mean trying out smoking or drinking, or even just dressing a certain way to match your friends.
One of the not-so-great sides of peer pressure is when it leads to risky behavior, like trying drugs or doing things that could get you in trouble. Sometimes, the fear of not being accepted can make us do things we wouldn’t normally do. It’s like feeling pressured to act a certain way just to be part of the group.
But not all peer pressure is bad. Sometimes, friends encourage us to do good things, like study hard or get involved in activities that make us better version of ourselves. Positive peer pressure can push us to achieve more, stay healthy, and help out in our communities.
Navigating peer pressure isn’t always easy. It takes knowing who you are and what you stand for. Building confidence in yourself helps you make choices that are right for you, even when your friends might be doing something different.
Parents, teachers, and mentors also play a big role in helping us handle peer pressure. They can give us advice, listen when we need to talk, and help us build our confidence. Learning to speak up for ourselves and think for ourselves is super important in dealing with peer pressure.
It’s also cool to have friends with different interests and backgrounds. Being around people who think differently can help us see things from new angles and make better decisions. Plus, having a diverse group of friends means you’re less likely to feel pressured to act a certain way just to fit in.
In the end, peer pressure shapes a lot of who we become. It can be a positive force, pushing us to do great things, or it can lead us down paths we might regret. By knowing ourselves, staying true to our values, and surrounding ourselves with supportive people, we can handle peer pressure like champs. It’s all about finding the balance between fitting in and staying true to who we are.
The profound impact of yoga on young minds and bodies, aiming to unite thousands in the practice and promote global health and wellness. "Yoga for Self and Society," the theme for this year, highlights yoga's dual role in fostering individual and societal well-being, encouraging grassroots participation and the spread of yoga in rural areas.
Key aspects of the Yoga day.
Physical health: Yoga elevates flexibility, strength, and endurance.
Regular practice can prevent and alleviate various physical ailments, including back pain and cardiovascular issues.
Mental well-being: Yoga aids in stress reduction, enhances concentration, and promotes mental clarity.
Practices such as pranayama (breath control) and meditation ameliorates anxiety and depression.
Spiritual growth: Rooted in spirituality, yoga fosters inner peace and harmony, guiding individuals toward self-awareness and self-realisation.
Community and Global Unity: The day brings together people from diverse backgrounds, promoting unity and harmony. It underscores the universal appeal of yoga, transcending age, gender, and nationality.
One in ten people worldwide fall ill from contaminated food each year Over 200 diseases are caused by eating contaminated food 40 percent of the foodborne disease burden is carried by children under 5 .Food safety: prepare for the unexpected.World Food Safety Day on 7 June 2024 will draw attention to food safety incidents. This year’s theme underlines the importance of being prepared for food safety incidents, no matter how mild or severe they can be.
Food safety incidents are situations where there is a potential or confirmed health risk associated with food consumption. A food incident can happen, for example, due to accidents, inadequate controls, food fraud or natural events. While being ready to manage food safety incidents requires dedicated efforts from policymakers, food safety authorities, farmers and food business operators, consumers also can play an active role.
“FOOD STANDARDS SAVE LIVES”
When you eat, how do you know your food is safe? You have probably washed your hands, cleaned your kitchenware and cooked your food to the right temperature, all good food safety practices. You have probably read food packaging labels to see what ingredients the product contains or how to cook it. And perhaps without realizing it, you have trusted everyone involved in growing, processing, packaging, distributing and preparing your food in the right way so that you can enjoy it without falling ill. Your food was safe and your trust justified because the people involved in making your food – whether close to your home or on the other side of the world – followed established food safety practices, which are transparently available in the form of standards. In other words, food standards form the bedrock of trust for all of us.
FOOD STANDARDS ARE A WAY OF ENSURING SAFETY AND QUALITY.
They provide guidance on hygienic food handling for farmers and processors. They define the maximum levels of additives, contaminants, residues of pesticides and veterinary drugs that can safely be consumed by all. Furthermore, standards specify how the food should be measured, packaged and transported to keep it safe. Thanks to the application of standards on things like nutrition and allergen labelling, consumers can know whether the food will be good for them.
Most governments and organizations adopt and enforce food standards that are based on scientific risk assessments, covering hazards that are biological, chemical and physical in nature. The standards can be developed by individual governments or organizations, or by regional or intergovernmental standard-setting bodies.
“FOOD SAFETY IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS”
Food supply chains involve several people: producers, processors, transporters, distributors, retailers, cooks as well as consumers. At every point in the chain, there are hazards that can cause contamination. Everyone involved at the various stages has a responsibility to keep food safe.
There are five calls to action on World Food Safety Day:
• ENSURE IT’S SAFE: Governments must ensure safe and nutritious food for all
• GROW IT SAFE: Agriculture and food producers need to adopt good practices
• KEEP IT SAFE: Business operators must make sure food is safe
• KNOW WHAT’S SAFE: Consumers need to learn about safe and healthy food
• TEAM UP FOR FOOD SAFETY: Let’s work together for safe food and good health!
The link between diet and emotions
stems from the close relationship between brain and gastrointestinal tract,
often called the “second brain.”GI tract is home to billions of bacteria that
influence the production chemical substances that constantly carry messages
from the gut to the brain. Two common examples of this are dopamine and
serotonin.Eating nutritionally dense food promotes the growth of “good”
bacteria, which in turn positively affects the production of these chemicals.
When production is optimal, brain receives these positive messages loud and
clear, and one’s mental state can reflect it. Studies have even found that
clean diets consisting of mainly whole, unprocessed foods, can help with
symptoms of depression and anxiety.Some people who move to a mostly plant-based
diet,often notice that their energy and focus are sustained throughout the day.A
lot of the processed foods we eat are highly addictive and stimulate the
dopamine centers in our brain, which are associated with pleasure and
reward. When we’re feeling stressed or depressed, it’s often processed
foods we reach for in search of a quick pick-me-up. During busy or difficult
periods, a cup of coffee stands in for a complete breakfast and fresh fruits
and vegetables are replaced with high-fat, high-calorie fast food. When feeling
down, a pint of ice cream becomes dinner (or ‘;[we skip dinner altogether).
SUGAR- is a major culprit of
inflammation. It feeds “bad” bacteria in the GI tract. It can also cause a
temporary spike in “feel good” chemicals like dopamine. These spikes
result in a fleeting sugar rush, followed by a hard crash.
WHOLE FOODS- Some studies show that
preservatives, food colorings and other additives may cause or worsen
hyperactivity and depression.The powerful nutrients produced by colorful
produce have tons of benefits for the mind and body. Their nutritional
properties are often contained in the colors themselves.
FIBER- Plant-based foods are full of
fiber which helps the body absorb glucose (food sugars) more slowly. This helps
to avoid sugar rushes and crashes.
FOLATE- This type of B vitamin helps
with dopamine production without forcing it to surge the way sugars do.
VITAMIN D- Vitamin D helps with the
production of serotonin.
MAGNESIUM- This essential mineral
helps with everything from nerve and muscle function to keeping a steady
heartbeat. But it’s also vital to the food-mood connection. A mineral
deficiency can hurt the bacteria in the gut and cause depression and
anxiety-like symptoms.
FERMENTED FOODS- Fermented foods are
packed with probiotics, which are certain live bacteria that are good for the digestive
tract.
Menstrual hygiene too and how it effects mental health:
Written by volunteer-coordinator Janyl Kenenbaeva
First of all, let me introduce you what is “Menstrual Hygiene Taboo”
Menstrual hygiene taboos are social and cultural restrictions, beliefs,
and practices that surround menstruation and affect the way menstruating
individuals are treated and how they manage their menstrual hygiene. These
taboos vary widely across different cultures and societies, and they can have
significant negative consequences for the physical and emotional well-being of
those who menstruate. Some common menstrual hygiene taboos and the reasons
behind them include:
Menstruation as Impurity: In many cultures, menstruation is often viewed
as impure or dirty. Menstruating individuals may be considered unclean and are
sometimes excluded from participating in religious activities, entering certain
places, or even cooking during their periods.
Silence and Secrecy: In some societies, menstruation is surrounded by a
code of silence. Many individuals are discouraged from talking openly about
menstruation, leading to a lack of information and misconceptions.
Restrictions on Activities: In some communities, menstruating
individuals are restricted from engaging in certain activities, such as
swimming, cooking, or participating in social events, due to the belief that
their presence might contaminate these activities.
Isolation: In some cases, people who menstruate are isolated during
their periods. They may be required to stay in separate huts or designated
areas, away from their families, during their menstrual cycles.
Limited Access to Sanitary Products: In some areas, the lack of access
to affordable and safe sanitary products can be a significant issue. This, in
turn, can lead to unhygienic practices, such as using old rags or leaves, which
can increase the risk of infections.
Stigma and Shame: The shame and stigma associated with menstruation can
lead to negative psychological and emotional effects. Menstruating individuals
may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their periods, which can affect their
self-esteem and overall mental health.
Lack of Education: Due to taboos surrounding menstruation, many
individuals receive little or no education about menstrual hygiene, proper
sanitary product use, or menstrual health. This can lead to a lack of awareness
and can result in harmful practices.
Addressing menstrual hygiene taboos is crucial for promoting gender
equality, women's health, and well-being. Efforts are underway in many parts of
the world to challenge these taboos and promote open discussions about
menstruation. Organizations, activists, and governments are working to provide
better education and access to sanitary products, as well as to challenge
cultural norms that stigmatize menstruation. Breaking these taboos is essential
for improving the lives and health of menstruating individuals and promoting
gender equality.
So according to the text in has its own consequences.
The next thing that is going to be talked it is how does it effect on
mental health
The societal menstrual hygiene taboos and the stigma surrounding
menstruation can have a significant impact on the mental health of individuals
who menstruate. Here's how these taboos can affect mental well-being:
Shame and Embarrassment: When menstruation is considered a taboo topic, individuals
may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their periods. This can lead to feelings
of self-consciousness and a desire to hide their menstrual cycle, even from
close family and friends. This secrecy can contribute to a sense of isolation
and emotional distress.
Low Self-Esteem: Menstrual stigma can erode self-esteem. When
individuals are made to feel that a natural bodily function is dirty or impure,
they may internalize these negative beliefs and perceive themselves as less
valuable or worthy. This can have long-term effects on self-worth and
self-confidence.
Anxiety and Stress: The fear of leakage or odor, especially in
situations where individuals are discouraged from openly addressing
menstruation, can lead to heightened anxiety and stress. Worrying about others
discovering their period can be a constant source of anxiety, affecting mental
health.
Social Isolation: In cultures where menstruating individuals are
isolated or excluded during their periods, social isolation can be emotionally distressing.
This separation from family and community can lead to feelings of loneliness,
depression, and a lack of emotional support.
Limited Access to Education: Menstrual taboos often result in inadequate
education about menstruation. This lack of knowledge can lead to confusion and
fear regarding menstrual health and hygiene. Individuals may not know how to
properly manage their periods or identify signs of potential health issues,
which can lead to increased stress and anxiety.
Impact on Academic and Professional Life: For students and
professionals, menstrual stigma can disrupt daily routines. The fear of
leakage, the need to hide menstrual products, and dealing with pain and
discomfort can impact one's ability to concentrate, participate, and excel in
academic or workplace environments.
Reproductive Health Concerns: In some cases, the fear of discussing
menstruation can prevent individuals from seeking medical advice when needed.
Ignoring or neglecting reproductive health issues can lead to further mental
distress and physical complications.
Addressing menstrual hygiene taboos and stigma is essential for
promoting good mental health among individuals who menstruate. Education, open
dialogue, and breaking the silence around menstruation can help reduce feelings
of shame and isolation. Initiatives that provide access to affordable and safe
sanitary products, promote menstrual hygiene education, and challenge harmful
cultural norms are crucial for improving mental health outcomes and overall
well-being for those who menstruate.
To sum up, we need to educate people and comfort girls to make them feel
better and not embarrassed.
It will help them to go to school to ask for help they will not feel bad
for just human-being .
As a volunteering organization we can say that our main mission is to
make people happier and better , so we will do everything that we can do in
order to complete our mission by helping and educating world about menstruation
We are “HEEALS” and we are always happy to offer our help to everyone.
By donating you can help us make world different .
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