Category Archives: Healthy Youth Development

Yes, Stress Really Can Make You Sick —Here’s Why

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Can Stress Really Make Us Sick? Understanding the Mind-Body Connection

Yes—chronic stress can absolutely impact your physical health. In fact, 60% to 80% of primary care visits involve stress-related concerns. Health psychologists like Dr. Julia Kogan and functional medicine specialists like Dr. Patricia Mills explain that prolonged stress elevates cortisol levels, which can weaken the immune system, trigger inflammation, and exacerbate chronic conditions like arthritis, IBS, and fibromyalgia. Chronic stress also decreases white blood cells, disrupts sleep, and interferes with hormone production—leading to issues with menstruation, fertility, and even testosterone levels in men. Symptoms of stress-related illness include headaches, high blood pressure, lowered immunity, sleep disturbances, and reduced sex drive.

Key Facts:

  • Chronic stress weakens the immune system and increases inflammation.
  • Cortisol overproduction impacts hormone balance and immunity.
  • Stress can worsen chronic conditions like arthritis, IBS, and fibromyalgia.
  • Symptoms of stress-related illness include fatigue, poor sleep, tension, and frequent infections.
  • Activities like meditation, breathwork, yoga, walking, dancing, and aromatherapy can naturally increase oxytocin, the relaxation hormone.

While we can’t eliminate all stress from our lives, we can choose how we respond to it. Tuning into our bodies and incorporating daily oxytocin-boosting habits like mindful breathing, gentle movement, and social connection can help us build resilience. If stress is taking a toll on your body, it’s not just in your head—and it’s worth taking seriously. Prioritize your well-being and reach out to a healthcare provider if stress is affecting your quality of life.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/yes-stress-can-really-make-you-sick-this-is-why-8350874

The Colors of Resilience: Taiwan’s Rainbow Village and Its Artistic Legacy

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Tucked away in the Nantun District of Taichung, Taiwan, Rainbow Village is more than just a vibrant collection of street art — it’s a living canvas that tells a story of resilience, hope, and the unyielding power of creativity. Originally a military dependents’ village destined for demolition, it became an artistic sanctuary thanks to the tireless brush of Huang Yung-Fu, affectionately known as “Grandpa Rainbow.” His whimsical paintings of birds, animals, and cheerful human figures transformed crumbling walls into radiant symbols of life and joy, turning an abandoned settlement into a celebration of color and imagination.

Beyond its bright facades, Rainbow Village reflects a poignant cultural narrative. The walls whisper stories of Taiwan’s history — from war and displacement to the creation of tight-knit military communities. Huang’s art preserves not just fading structures, but the collective memory of thousands of families who once called these streets home. Each painted figure honors the past, offering both locals and visitors a reminder of perseverance and cultural identity amid modernization.

Today, Rainbow Village stands as both a tourist destination and a cultural treasure, drawing visitors from around the world who marvel at its authenticity and artistic spirit. Huang’s legacy lives on through each brushstroke, a testament to how art can protect heritage, inspire connection, and turn ordinary places into extraordinary landmarks. In every corner of this colorful village, the heart of Taiwan continues to shine.

Reference:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_Village

The Power of Cultural Intelligence: A Key to Effective Leadership in a Diverse World

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Cultural intelligence (CQ) is a key factor in leadership success, often surpassing IQ, emotional intelligence (EQ), or lived experience in diverse and complex environments. CQ is more than just understanding different cultures—it is a structured form of intelligence made up of four key components: CQ Drive (motivation), CQ Knowledge (understanding cultural differences), CQ Strategy (planning and adapting), and CQ Action (effective behavior). Leaders who develop these skills are better equipped to navigate cultural complexities, build inclusive teams, and make informed decisions in global or diverse settings.

Key Aspects of Cultural Intelligence:

  • CQ Drive: Motivation, curiosity, and confidence in engaging with diverse cultures.
  • CQ Knowledge: Understanding cultural norms, values, and leadership expectations across cultures.
  • CQ Strategy: Planning and adapting based on cultural awareness and situational factors.
  • CQ Action: Adjusting behavior to communicate and lead effectively in different cultural contexts.

Developing cultural intelligence is essential for leaders aiming to create inclusive and high-performing teams. By identifying areas for improvement—whether boosting motivation, enhancing knowledge, or refining adaptability—leaders can foster stronger relationships and drive success in today’s globalized world.

Reference: https://davidlivermore.com/2024/10/04/what-part-of-cultural-intelligence-matters-most-for-you-right-now/

The Beauty of Cross-Cultural Friendships: Expanding Horizons & Building Bridges

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Friendships that bridge different cultures, languages, and backgrounds offer a unique and enriching perspective on the world. When we connect with people who have different life experiences, we expand our understanding, challenge stereotypes, and develop greater empathy. Learning about another person’s traditions, beliefs, and customs firsthand allows us to see the world from a more inclusive and informed perspective. These friendships break down barriers and foster global awareness, making us more adaptable and open-minded individuals.

Cross-cultural and bilingual friendships also provide tangible cognitive and linguistic benefits. Engaging with a friend who speaks another language or comes from a different background naturally enhances our communication skills and deepens our cultural intelligence. Exposure to different languages, even informally, can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Additionally, bilingual friendships can encourage us to learn a new language, making us more effective communicators and strengthening connections across diverse communities.

Beyond personal growth, bicultural and multilingual friendships create stronger, more inclusive communities. These friendships promote cross-cultural appreciation and foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to navigate cultural differences with empathy and curiosity is invaluable. By embracing friendships that span cultural and linguistic boundaries, we build bridges instead of walls, fostering a world that thrives on diversity, connection, and shared humanity.

Jarrelle ( 杰遨 ）Jieao

Here Are 4 Ways to Cope With Existential Dread

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Late at night, when the world quiets down, existential dread can creep in—the unsettling fear of uncertainty, of not knowing if you’re on the right path or if things will ever get better. It thrives in moments of doubt, feeding on the pressure to have everything figured out. But the truth is, no one does. Life isn’t a straight path; it’s a journey full of twists, detours, and discoveries. Instead of fearing the unknown, try embracing it. Ground yourself in the present, acknowledge your thoughts without judgment, and remember that uncertainty isn’t failure—it’s possibility. You are not lost; you are simply becoming.

Millennials and Zoomers (aka Gen-Z) May Be Feeling Existential Dread the Most

Existential dread is a common experience, especially among younger generations navigating an uncertain world. While feelings of stagnation and questioning one’s purpose can arise at any age, Millennials and Gen Z face unique challenges that contribute to this sense of unease. Economic instability, social media comparisons, and the pressure to find meaning in a fast-paced, ever-changing society all add to the weight of uncertainty. As traditional milestones become less linear, many struggle with doubts about where they should be in life, leading to a pervasive sense of anxiety about the future.

  • Climate anxiety: A 2021 report by the Pew Research Center found that Gen Z and Millennials are more engaged in addressing climate change than Gen X and Boomers. They are actively taking action, speaking about climate issues, and engaging with social media content about the changing planet at a higher rate than older generations. In other words, these generations are carrying the emotional burden of our planet’s uncertain future more than anyone else.
  • Financial stress: The anxiety doesn’t stop with climate change—Millennials alone hold nearly a third of all student loan debt, creating immense financial pressure. To cope with this stress, many young people turn to substances, smoking, and other unhealthy coping mechanisms, further impacting their well-being.
  • Poor mental health overall: When it comes to overall mental health, Gen Z has been found to have the poorest mental health outcomes compared to other generations. According to the American Psychological Association, both Gen Z and Millennials are also more likely to seek mental health treatment, highlighting the growing emotional and psychological strain these generations face.

There’s much that is outside of our control, but focusing on what you can control may be the relief your mind needs right now.

Here are some small ways to make a positive impact in your community:

  • Stock up on water and granola bars at the grocery store and distribute them to unhoused individuals in your area.
  • Volunteer at an organization that aligns with the change you want to see in the world.

If your existential dread stems from loneliness, consider these steps:

  • Sign up for a ceramics class or another hobby-based activity.
  • Attend a local event to meet new people.
  • Invite a new coworker out to lunch.

While existential dread can feel overwhelming, shifting your focus to what you can control can make a world of difference. Whether it’s giving back to your community, fostering new connections, or engaging in activities that bring you joy, small, intentional actions can help ground you in the present and remind you of your own agency. The world may be uncertain, but by taking steps toward positive change—both for yourself and those around you—you can cultivate a sense of purpose, connection, and hope in the midst of the unknown.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/coping-with-existential-dread-7972035

Bullying

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The CDC defines bullying as unwanted aggressive behavior by youth or groups of youths, excluding siblings or current dating partners, that involves a power imbalance and is repeated or highly likely to be repeated. Bullying can cause harm or distress to victims, whether physical, psychological, social, or educational. It takes many forms, including physical aggression like hitting or tripping, verbal attacks such as name-calling or teasing, relational bullying like spreading rumors or exclusion, and damage to property. With the rise of technology, bullying now extends to cyberbullying, where harmful behaviors occur online. Youth can find themselves as perpetrators, victims, or both, highlighting the complex dynamics of bullying and its far-reaching impact.

Key Facts About Bullying in the United States

Bullying as an Adverse Childhood Experience: Bullying negatively impacts all youth involved, including victims, perpetrators, and bystanders.

Prevalence of Bullying:

  • About 1 in 5 high school students reported being bullied on school property in the past year.
  • Over 1 in 6 high school students reported experiencing electronic bullying via texting or social media.

Disparities in Bullying:

  • Female students are more likely than male students to experience both in-person and electronic bullying.
  • LGBTQ+ students are at higher risk of being bullied compared to their cisgender, heterosexual peers.
  • Asian and Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander students report lower rates of school bullying compared to Hispanic, White, and Multiracial students. Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander students also experience lower rates of electronic bullying compared to most other racial/ethnic groups.

Bullying as a Discipline Issue:

  • National surveys indicate bullying occurs weekly in 28% of middle schools, 15% of high schools, and 10% of elementary schools.
  • Cyberbullying is reported weekly by 37% of middle schools, 25% of high schools, and 6% of elementary schools.

Bullying is a pervasive issue with serious consequences for all involved, but it can be addressed through awareness, prevention, and intervention. Key signs of bullying include unexplained injuries, lost or damaged belongings, changes in eating or sleeping habits, withdrawal from friends or activities, and declining academic performance. Preventing bullying requires fostering a positive, inclusive environment where differences are celebrated, and open communication is encouraged. Peers can stand up for victims by showing support and reporting incidents, while adults and school staff must remain vigilant, establish clear anti-bullying policies, and provide safe spaces for students to seek help. By working together, communities can create a culture of respect and kindness, ensuring every child feels safe and valued.

Reference:https://www.cdc.gov/youth-violence/about/about-bullying.html

Narratives of Healing: How Our Elders Guide Us Beyond Borders

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As a Black Buddhist who grew up studying Buddhism, classical Chinese music, and the art of Japanese Bonsai, I’ve often reflected on what it means to embrace traditions that are not rooted in my ancestry. At first, I felt like an outsider, but as I listened to the stories of my elders, I began to see that expression isn’t confined to bloodlines or geography. These stories with struggle, resilience, and love—are more than personal memories; they are bridges. They connect us to our roots, to our shared humanity, and to a deeper understanding of who we are. Listening to our elders allows us to step beyond limits, and into the universal truths that bind us all.

Our elders carry within them the echoes of countless generations, each story a thread in the fabric of our collective being. When I sat with my grandparents and listened to their stories of living in the south, the KKK, the fight for freedom, perseverance, and triumph, I realized these narratives were not just about them—they were about me, too. Their resilience became a lens through which I could make sense of my bicultural journey, blending my own me-ness with diverse philosophies and arts. The wisdom of our elders reminds us that culture is not a static inheritance but a living and breathing dialogue. By honoring their experiences, we create space for healing and understanding, for ourselves and for the communities we touch.

In Buddhism, we often speak of transcending the conventional world, but this does not mean abandoning it—it means transforming it. The stories of our elders are vehicles for that transformation. They teach us compassion, resilience, and interconnectedness, serving as a guide for navigating life’s complexities. When we take the time to listen deeply, we honor their sacrifices and create a legacy of healing for future generations. Their wisdom invites us to bridge divides, to embrace diversity, and to build communities rooted in love and understanding. In this way, the stories of the past become seeds of a more harmonious future.

Jarrelle ( Jie ao ) Barton

Harmony Between Worlds: A Black Buddhist Artist’s Journey

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Living as a Black Buddhist artist immersed in a bicultural experience is a profound act of self-discovery. My heritage as a Black individual expresses resilience, creativity, and community, while my Buddhist practice offers a framework for mindfulness, compassion, and balance. These two identities do not simply coexist—they enrich and inform each other, creating a unique lens through which I experience this world. Through the teachings of lord Buddha, I’ve come to understand my cultural roots not as a separate identity but as a path in which I cultivate dharma..

As an artist, the bicultural experience manifests in the stories I tell and the mediums I use to tell them. My work is a reflection of both celebration and introspection, merging the rhythms of my heritage with the contemplative silence of my Buddhist practice. Whether through the meditative pluck of the Guzheng or the quiet resilience embedded in my poems, I strive to create art that speaks to the shared humanity between cultures. This process has taught me that self-cultivation is not about abandoning one identity to embrace another but about finding harmony in the tension, allowing each aspect of myself to bloom.

Self-cultivation within this bicultural space is an ongoing practice of loving-kindness toward myself and others. It is about embracing the complexities of my identity without judgment, cultivating wisdom through the lessons of my ancestors, and staying grounded in the present moment. As a Black Buddhist, I see my journey not only as personal liberation but also as a call to inspire others in my community to explore the depths of their identities with courage and compassion. Together, we can honor the beauty of our roots while forging new paths of creativity and cultivation.

Jarrelle (杰遨) Jieao

Youth Violence

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Youth violence is a serious issue affecting young people aged 10 to 24, often manifesting through fighting, bullying, weapon threats, and gang-related activities. It not only harms the victims but also impacts offenders and witnesses, creating a ripple effect of trauma and fear in communities. Understanding youth violence means recognizing its multifaceted nature and addressing it as a shared responsibility. Preventative measures, such as fostering safe environments, promoting conflict resolution skills, and offering support to at-risk youth, are essential in breaking the cycle of violence and building a foundation for healthier, more compassionate communities.

Key Facts

Prevalence and Impact:

  • Thousands experience youth violence daily across urban, suburban, rural, and tribal communities.
  • Homicide is the third leading cause of death for young people aged 10-24 and the leading cause of death for non-Hispanic Black or African American youth.
  • Over 800 young people are treated daily in U.S. emergency departments for assault-related injuries.

Disparities in Risk:

  • Sexual minority teens are more likely to face multiple forms of violence than their heterosexual peers.
  • Black or African American youth are at a higher risk of the most physically harmful forms of violence, including homicides and aggravated assaults.

Economic Costs:

  • In 2020, youth homicides and nonfatal physical assaults incurred an estimated $122 billion annually in costs, covering medical care, lost work, and diminished quality of life (excluding criminal justice costs).

Impact of COVID-19:

  • The economic burden of youth violence increased by 17% in 2020 compared to 2019, reflecting the ongoing challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.

Preventing youth violence is a collective effort that begins with understanding the root causes and risk factors that contribute to it. By addressing systemic inequities, such as poverty, residential segregation, and other forms of racism, we can create environments where all young people—especially those from racial and ethnic minority groups—have the opportunity to thrive. Prevention strategies must focus on reducing risk factors, strengthening protective factors, and fostering safe, equitable communities. Supporting youth as they grow into healthy, empowered adults is not just a moral imperative; it is essential for building a future free from violence and filled with opportunity for all.

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/youth-violence/about/index.html

Living With Existential Depression

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Existential depression is a deeply challenging experience where individuals grapple with finding meaning in their lives and existence itself. This struggle can lead to a lack of motivation in daily life, fixation on thoughts of death and dying, indifference toward the seemingly “unfixable” state of the world, and avoidance of connections with others. While these feelings can be overwhelming, it’s important to remember that existential depression is not a formal diagnosis but rather a way to describe this specific emotional and philosophical struggle.

“Everyone experiences [a level of] existential depression at some point in their lives and it is very common to find it as one moves through the challenges of the maturation process,”- Jed Turnbull, PhD, LCSW, CHT, a licensed social worker, and therapist.

Questions that often spark feelings of existential depression include:

  • What is the meaning of life? 
  • Why is there suffering?
  • Why do people have to die? 
  • Can I make an impact in the world? 
  • Why do bad people go unpunished?
  • Why do good people experience pain? 

Certain life experiences can also act as potential triggers for existential depression, such as:

  • Stressful life events: Situations that cause major upheaval can greatly impact your life. For example, one study notes that cancer patients may question the meaning of life when they realize that death is a very real possibility.
  • Having poor job satisfaction: Research has shown that there’s a relationship between job satisfaction and mental health. So, if you’re dissatisfied with your job you may have poorer mental health. You may also start to wonder what the purpose or point of your job is.
  • Lack of meaningful relationships: Science notes a strong link between healthy social relationships and aspects of our health and wellness.

“In more immediate circumstances, one’s way of expression can be very helpful in alleviating their depressive symptoms,” Turnbull notes. “Journaling or writing, and other abstract ways of self-expression such as art and music, as well as learning something new, can all be ways to decrease depressive symptoms.”-Jed Turnbull, PhD

Experiencing existential depression can be triggered by deep reflections and life events. It’s crucial to prioritize mental health and adopt a healthy lifestyle in response. Taking time to reflect on your well-being and engage in self-care practices can help manage feelings of existential dread and promote a more meaningful and fulfilling life.


照顾好自己是对的。Taking care of yourself is the right thing to do.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-existential-depression-5496376