Newsletter #33 - User Demographics Survey; reducing stress during the holiday season; opening up about sensitive subjects.

Source: Newsletter | Issue 33 | If you would like to receive the full quality HTML version via email please sign up.


TeenHelp Newsletter #33 - December 16th 2012 - http://www.teenhelp.org

Welcome to the TeenHelp Newsletter! Our Newsletter contains a lot of useful information about our current work, including updates to our site and services, work with our partners and affiliates, details of upcoming events, short bits of advice, interesting links and more!

==========

The Newsletter team would like to wish everyone on TeenHelp and their loved ones a happy holidays.

==========


TeenHelp regularly makes changes to its site and services. Some of these are large and noticeable, and others are small and much less so, but each one contributes to the positive development of TeenHelp and how our users experience our community. Below are some of the most recent developments.

==========

TeenHelp User Demographics Survey (December 9th 2012)

TeenHelp has launched a demographics survey, which has been designed to gain some insight into what kind of people use our website, what their backgrounds are, and what they believe. This will enable us to tailor our services to users of TeenHelp, as well as to assist us when partnering with other organisations. This survey is completely anonymous and, therefore, it will not be connected to your username or affect your use of TeenHelp in any way. Please help by taking five minutes of your time to complete the survey.

http://www.teenhelp.org/misc.php?do=form&fid=40

==========

New Assistant Newsletter Editor (December 1st 2012)

TeenHelp is pleased to welcome a new Assistant Editor to the Newsletter Team. Sammi (Jellybean.) is a very dedicated volunteer, and will no doubt play an important part in forthcoming Newsletter publications. We wish Sammi all the best in her new role. Congratulations!

http://www.teenhelp.org/newsletter/

==========

Latest videos (December 9th 2012)

Due to the hard work of our Videos Team, we continue to see many great additions to our Videos section. More videos are being added all the time, so check regularly to see all our favourite picks! Some of our latest additions include:

Watch what you watch

Celebrities come together in this video to present a very important message: Pay attention to what you are watching, because not everything you see is true. This serves as a powerful reminder to be mindful of how the media portrays celebrities and to not believe everything you see.

Treating alcohol addiction

This video answers important questions about treating alcohol addiction, such as if there is a cure, the effects of alcohol on the body, the treatment available, and if it is possible to recover without professional help. This video is well worth watching if you are seeking help for an alcohol addiction.

Autism

In this video, Dr. Charles Sophy explains what autism is, the different types of autism and its causes, the warning signs that a child might be autistic and the treatment available to help. For those who are wishing to find out more about autism, this video is definitely a great starting place.

How to clean a laptop

Laptops are very useful tools, and caring for them can make them last longer. This video teaches you how to clean a laptop, including cleaning products and how to use them, and what not to do in order to avoid damaging the laptop.

http://www.teenhelp.org/videos/latest/

==========

Latest articles (December 1st 2012)

Our team of talented writers bring our users a constant stream of fresh articles to read each month. Articles are being published regularly, so be sure to check regularly to see what we're doing. Some of our latest additions include:

Finding and applying for a job

It can be extremely difficult to find a job, given the current economic climate. Unemployment rate has increased tremendously and it has affected all ages and walks of life. This article gives tips on finding and applying for a job, as well as how to conduct yourself at an interview.

Personality traits vs. disorders: know the difference!

It is easy to mistake personality traits and actual personality disorders. Often-times, people do not know how to tell the difference! In this article, you will learn how to tell the difference between personality traits and a personality disorder.

The cycle of domestic violence

Occasionally, people find themselves trapped in an abusive relationship, not knowing how to break free from it. A lot of people who are in an ongoing abusive partnership do not typically understand the cycle of domestic violence. In this article, the cycle of domestic violence is described by each phase. You will also learn ways in which you can safely free yourself from such a relationship.

Learning from the Paralympics

The Paralympics took place in the United Kingdom this year. Records were broken and medals were won. In this article you will learn all about the Paralympics, including some interesting facts and current debates surrounding the games.

http://www.teenhelp.org/articles/

==========


TeenHelp works with a range of different organisations and websites in order to help and educate young people. Below is a selection of some of them. For a full list of the organisations we work with, please visit our Resources page.

http://www.teenhelp.org/resources/

==========

For the Love of Christi

For the Love of Christi, founded in 1987 following a tragic accident, is dedicated to providing grief support to young people and their families in Texas. The website primarily contains information about all the support groups that the organisation runs, including a calendar with a full list of upcoming support groups. It also provides a list of resources in other states. Although the organisation is based in Texas, the website also contains a booklet about grief and support, tips on how to get through the holidays, and what to say to someone who is grieving, which would definitely be useful to anyone seeking help for themselves or for a friend.

http://www.fortheloveofchristi.org

==========


Each month we share small bits of practical advice that you can implement to improve your life or that of others.

==========

Making the most out of winter

When people think 'winter', some think of cold dark months, but there are still plenty of opportunities for you to make the most out of winter. Here are some suggestions.

• Browse for different hot beverages in stores near you or on the Internet. Trying something new may add a little excitement to the cold winter months ahead.
• Enjoy an indoor bath to relax and unwind. This is a great way to warm yourself up.
• If you are still at school, try an indoor after school sport or activity, as this will keep you busy and help you to forget about the cold.
• If you live near hills, wrap up warm and go sledding.
• Watch holiday television shows. Many channels will be airing marathons of the most popular television shows.

http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f219-lifestyle/

==========

How to reduce stress during the holiday season

The holidays are nearly here! A lot of us are faced with having to buy gifts for others, planning trips to visit relatives, preparing for holiday parties, and baking for several dozen people. As much fun as these things can be, it can also put a lot of stress on a person. Here are some tips on how you can reduce holiday stress.

• Stick to a budget. It is easy to spend more money then originally planned when it comes to shopping for loved ones, and buying yummy baked goods. Know how much money you have, and how much you can spend. Set aside a certain amount of money for each person and stand firm to that amount. Also, plan how much money you intend to spend on other things such as holiday parties, and travelling expenses.
• Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking and visiting family and friends. Plan your meals, then make a shopping list. Planning ahead will help prevent last-minute scrambling.
• Be realistic. The holidays do not have to be perfect, or just like last year. Families, friends, and traditions change and grow. Set new traditions with what you already have. and try not to dwell on what you don't have. Make the best of what you are given to work with.
• Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do.
• Reach out. It is likely that others are feeling the stress of the holidays as well. Talk to someone you trust, and let them know you're feeling overwhelmed. Talking to someone can mean that you're receiving the support you need to get through the holidays.

http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f14-mental-health/

==========

How to make a tiramisu dessert

The holiday season is rapidly approaching, and maybe you want to try something new this year. If you fancy indulging in a festive treat, here is a quick and easy traditional Italian tiramisu recipe for you to try.

• Prepare two cups of strong coffee. Open one packet of Savoiardi biscuits (also known as Ladyfingers) and dip individual biscuits (by submerging them briefly) into the coffee, then arrange in a dish to form the bottom layer.
• Separate the yolks from the whites of 6 medium eggs, and put the yolks in a large mixing bowl. Add 100 grams of caster sugar and whisk with the yolks until ribbons form.
• In another mixing bowl, whisk half of the egg whites until stiff. Stir in 500 grams of mascarpone cheese and 3 or 4 tablespoons of Marsala wine (to taste). Gently fold in the remaining half of egg whites, then spread a thin layer of this mixture on top of the biscuits.
• Add another layer of dipped Savoiardi biscuits and mascarpone on top. Keep layering until the dish is full.
• Sprinkle cocoa powder on top and chill in a refrigerator for at least 5 hours before serving.

Caution: This recipe uses raw eggs. It is possible to omit the eggs by using whipped cream instead.

http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f184-food-recipes/

==========


A lot of content is posted to TeenHelp every single day, from threads to articles, social groups to albums. But it is difficult for even the most veteran user to keep on top of it all, so we have selected a few items from among the masses that we thought were interesting to draw your attention to.

==========

Threads

What time do you wake up on Christmas morning?
For many of us, Christmas is an exciting time of the year. What time do you usually wake up on Christmas Day? Let other users know here!
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f3-ge...stmas-morning/

Do your parents know you use TH?
Do you like to keep TeenHelp a private thing, or do your parents know that you use our site?
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f3-ge...-use-teenhelp/

The "My imperfections make me beautiful!" thread
We are all beautiful, despite our imperfections. Share your imperfections with others here, and remember that you are beautiful!
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f3-ge...autiful-thread

Are young relationships dead?
Have young relationships deteriorated over the years? Is the media to blame, or are there other factors? This thread debates these questions and others.
http://www.teenhelp.org/forums/f38-c...ionships-dead/

==========

Blogs

I did it! Thank you, TH
This user posted a blog entry about her experience in opening up to someone she trusted. Read about her success, and use it as motivation to open up to someone you trust!
http://www.teenhelp.org/blogs/runner...-you-teenhelp/

The penguin has some things to say
This penguin has some motivational messages, which may help to inspire you. To see what the penguin has to say, check out this blog entry!
http://www.teenhelp.org/blogs/belle....me-things-say/

==========

Albums

Pictures
We all need a little motivation from time to time. Check out this album for some smiles and motivation.
http://www.teenhelp.org/albums/thele...2735-pictures/

Quotes to live by
It is easy to feel like no-one understands you, and that you are alone. Depression can be hard to cope with, but remember that you are not alone.
http://www.teenhelp.org/albums/depre...uotes++live+./

==========


Each month we feature a picture by one of our users. If you would like to see your picture here please contact us by replying to this Newsletter, emailing us at contact@teenhelp.org, or messaging our Newsletter Officer (Halcyon) on the website.


==========

Upcoming events

Discussion: Dealing with triggers (Saturday December 22nd 2012)

Triggers are anything that reminds you of negative feelings or makes you want to perform unhealthy or dangerous behaviours. Often these are unavoidable parts of life and are tough to deal with on your own. This discussion will help you learn to control any urges the triggers may cause and how to prevent them from affecting you.

Discussion: Finding hope and thinking positively (Saturday December 29th 2012)

When the burdens of life keep coming at you it can sometimes be difficult to find the energy and courage to keep going. Come to this discussion to find ways to think more positively and stay strong through the hard times.

Discussion: Building positive relationships (Saturday January 5th 2013)

Relationships between family members, friends and significant others each come with their own difficulties, but knowing how to overcome the obstructions to your relationships is essential if they are to be fulfilling for you. Join this discussion to look at how to build positive relationships with those you care about.

Discussion: Opening up about sensitive subjects (Saturday January 12th 2013)

It can be difficult to tell friends, family and significant others about the things that are going on in your life, and this is particularly challenging when you're disclosing complex and sensitive issues such as mental health. This discussion will help you to find ways to open up about the things in your life, whatever they may be.

For more information about upcoming Facilitated Chat Room Discussions (FCRDs), and the times that these discussions will take place, please visit our FCRD page.

http://www.teenhelp.org/chat/discussions/

==========

Donate to TeenHelp

In order to continue providing free services to young people around the world, TeenHelp requires a constant income of voluntary donations to support our regular costs. If you are able to, we ask that you please donate any money you can to us, even if it's only a few dollars.

http://www.teenhelp.org/donate/

==========

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

Our Facebook and Twitter pages are a great place to get a lot of high-quality information. We aim to connect you to interesting organisations, volunteering opportunities, events, news stories, pictures, videos, and more!

Facebook: http://www.teenhelp.org/facebook
Twitter: http://www.teenhelp.org/twitter

==========

Editorial team

Newsletter Officer/Editor-in-Chief: Haley (Halcyon)
Assistant Editor: Chess (Celestial.)
Assistant Editor: Lyndsee (City Lights.)
Assistant Editor: Sammi (Jellybean.)
Assistant Editor: Rianna (Sunlight.)

==========