A Positive Approach to Teen Health

August 21 is National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day — a day to remember lives lost to overdoses involving illegally made fentanyl and take action to help prevent future loss.

Counterfeit pills can look like real medication, but they may contain fentanyl. You can't see, taste, or smell fentanyl. Even one pill can be deadly.

This year, start a conversation with the young people in your life. Talk early. Share facts. Help prevent overdose: https://bit.ly/4bZPALM

Happy Parent Friday!

Today, we are sharing another great resource from NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) featuring 10 questions to help parents and caregivers encourage open communication with their children.

Sometimes, one simple question, once a week, can open the door to a meaningful conversation.

Take a moment to check out these questions and consider trying this approach as we head into the new school year!

Visit the link here:https://www.nami.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/BTS-Ten-Question-Tuesday.pdf

Did you know NAMI, National Alliance on Mental Illness, has a simple framework called “The Three C’s” to help parents and caregivers support their children’s mental health and wellness?

With back-to-school season officially here for many of us, it is a great time to check in with our kids, open the door for conversations, and make sure they know that they are supported.

Visit the link here to learn more:https://www.nami.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/The-Three-Cs-for-Parents-2026.pdf

Portage is hosting a FREE community event this Saturday, August 22nd, from 11 AM–9 PM at Founders Square!

Everyone is welcome, so feel free to share this event with friends, family, and anyone who may be interested in attending.

Check out the flyer for additional details. We hope to see you there!

❤️ PORTAGE STRONG! ❤️

Our community has been through a lot, but this Saturday is about coming together—healing, hope, fellowship, and reminding each other what makes Portage strong.

Come out to Founders Square this Saturday, August 22 from 11 AM–9 PM for a day of FREE food, live music, prayer, co****le, games, and community.

Bring a chair. Bring a friend. Bring your family. Come as you are.

After the storm, let’s gather together and remind one another:

No one faces the wind alone. ❤️

📍 Founders Square • Portage
🗓️ Saturday, August 22
⏰ 11 AM–9 PM

Everyone is welcome!

As we continue through National Wellness Month, we want to remind you that healthy relationships are an important part of a healthy life.

Relationships built on trust, respect, and emotional safety support your overall well-being. This month, prioritize connections that help you feel valued, heard, and supported.

Stay connected with our PATH teams!

Our August newsletter is now live, featuring exciting updates, helpful resources, and important information you will want to miss. Take a moment to catch up on all that is happening and see what is new as we kick off the new school year!

Be sure to visit the link below to read the full newsletter!
https://positiveteenhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Newsletter-August-2026.pdf

Your teen hears plenty of reminders every day...

"Do your homework. Put your phone down. Clean your room. Be home on time."

But what about the messages that matter even more?

"I love you. I believe in you. I'm interested in your world."

In this week's article, Mark shares "5 Messages Your Teen Needs to Hear" and why saying them consistently can strengthen your connection for years to come.

Take a few minutes to read the article — and then tell your teen something they need to hear today. Check it out at bit.ly/five-messages

As the new school year begins, don't forget to check in on your child's mental health. Visit Mental Health America's Back-to-School Resource Hub for practical tips to help your family start the year strong:

Back to school with mental health in mind | Mental Health America As the school year begins, students and families face a mix of excitement, pressure, and uncertainty. Whether you’re a young person navigating new challenges or a caregiver looking to support your child’s emotional well-being, Mental Health America is here to help with practical guidance, free t...

Our hearts are with our community following the recent storm.

We are thinking of our families, educators, and neighbors who may be facing challenges in the aftermath. We are keeping everyone in our thoughts and hoping for safety, strength, and support in the days ahead.