Tag Archives: NKIFSHIC

How to Get Started With Therapy

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Beginning therapy is a meaningful act of self-respect—it means you’re choosing to prioritize your mental well-being. While it can feel intimidating at first, just deciding to explore your options is already a major achievement. Therapy looks different for everyone, so think about what setting fits your lifestyle best. If you value privacy and flexibility, virtual therapy—through video or phone—might be the right fit. Whether you’re navigating daily stress or deeper emotional challenges, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The important thing is that you’ve chosen to start, and that alone is a powerful step forward.

Key Facts:

  • Online therapy offers flexibility and comfort at home
  • Health insurance directories can help locate covered providers
  • Recommendations from trusted friends and doctors are valuable
  • Therapist directories from mental health organizations (like ADAA, APA) are credible sources
  • Online platforms personalize matches based on your unique concerns

Taking the first step to seek therapy shows resilience. Whether you’re navigating stress, grief, identity, or simply seeking clarity, finding the right therapist can help you feel seen, heard, and supported. Healing begins when you choose yourself—and you’ve already begun.


自我关怀是很重要的。
Self-care is important.

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/therapy-7092217#toc-how-to-get-started-with-therapy

How Do I Stop Feeling Like I’m Behind in Life?

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It’s incredibly easy to feel like you’re falling behind in life—especially in a world filled with highlight reels on social media, relentless comparisons, and pressure to “keep up.” Whether it’s career milestones, relationships, financial status, or personal achievements, many people silently struggle with the belief that they’re not where they “should” be. But as experts like Dr. Carolina Casillas and leadership coach Ashley Rudolph point out, this mindset often stems from unrealistic comparisons, internalized timelines, and distorted definitions of success. What we label as jealousy or failure can actually be a window into what we truly want—and how far we’ve already come.

Key Factors:

  • Social comparison is natural but intensified by social media.
  • Feeling behind can show up in career, relationships, health, or personal growth.
  • Excessive comparison harms self-worth and can lead to anxiety, depression, or debt.
  • Jealousy can be a tool, pointing to your desires.
  • Self-compassion and goal clarity help shift focus back to your own timeline.

You are not behind—you’re just on a different path. Every journey unfolds in its own time, and your worth isn’t defined by someone else’s progress. By practicing self-compassion, examining your emotions honestly, and focusing on what truly matters to you, it becomes possible to find peace with where you are—and move forward with purpose, not pressure.

Reference:https://www.verywellmind.com/how-do-i-stop-feeling-like-im-behind-in-life-11729611?hid=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&did=17654617-20250512&utm_source=verywellmind&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=verywellmind_newsletter&utm_content=051225&lctg=9da7c9b8a1c14056d0b1170abc613280ce8d3716&lr_input=c24f0f82324dd205a457b795567a3fcc0905f5476a12d769963bdac7cec1fc7a

Exploring filial piety

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Growing up outside of Asian culture but being deeply immersed in it through my journey with guzheng and East Asian traditions, I’ve come to admire—and sometimes wrestle with—the concept of filial piety. At its heart, filial piety is about honoring and respecting your elders, caring for your family, and carrying your lineage with dignity. In Confucian thought, it’s called Xiao, and it’s more than just a tradition—it’s a way of structuring your life around duty and compassion. What struck me the most when I first learned about it was how it permeates everything—from how one speaks to their parents to how families make decisions together, even across generations.

Over time, I’ve seen how filial piety shows up in different ways, especially among my Asian American friends and collaborators. Some of them talk about how their parents have strong expectations—what to study, who to become, how to live. That’s part of what’s called strict authoritarian filial piety, where elders make many of the decisions for the younger generation. Others come from families that still value obedience and respect but allow for more discussion, known as respectful obedience. I’ve had deep conversations with students and artists who feel caught in between—honoring their family’s sacrifices while longing to follow a path of their own. Honestly, that’s something I relate to, too. As a Black artist choosing to play a traditional Chinese instrument, I’ve had to walk my own unconventional road—and it wasn’t always easy getting support or understanding.

Filial piety isn’t inherently good or bad—it’s a cultural framework. But like any tradition, it needs to evolve. I’ve learned that balance is key. There’s wisdom in honoring those who came before you, but there’s also strength in forging your own path. I believe parenting—whether rooted in Asian tradition, Western psychology, or a blend of both—works best when it’s rooted in mutual respect, open communication, and emotional safety. When we allow young people to honor their roots and grow their wings, we build families that don’t just survive, but thrive. That’s something I see reflected in my music, in my teaching, and in the stories I hear from young people navigating the complex beauty of bicultural identity.

Jarrelle ( jieao 杰遨 ) Barton

Reference:https://lhsepic.com/8371/in-depth/exploring-filial-piety-in-asian-cultures/

Cannabis and Lung Health

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Despite popular belief, smoking cannabis is not a safer alternative to tobacco—it still poses serious risks to your lung health. Whether it’s through joints, bongs, blunts, or bowls, cannabis smoke contains many of the same harmful toxins, irritants, and carcinogens as tobacco smoke. These substances can damage lung tissue, scar small blood vessels, and increase the risk of bronchitis, chronic coughing, and excessive mucus production. Although these symptoms may improve once cannabis use is stopped, the long-term effects remain concerning. Additionally, more research is needed to fully understand the links between cannabis smoking and serious respiratory diseases such as lung cancer, emphysema, and COPD.

Key Facts:

  • Smoking cannabis can harm lung tissue and scar blood vessels.
  • Cannabis smoke contains similar toxins and carcinogens as tobacco smoke.
  • Smoking cannabis may increase risk of bronchitis, chronic cough, and mucus buildup.
  • These symptoms often improve after quitting cannabis use.
  • More research is needed on the link between cannabis smoke and lung cancer, COPD, and emphysema.

As cannabis use becomes more widespread, it’s essential to separate fact from myth when it comes to its impact on health—especially lung health. Protecting your lungs means being aware of what you inhale, and choosing healthier ways to cope or manage stress. If you or someone you know is experiencing breathing issues and regularly smokes cannabis, it may be time to consider quitting and speak with a healthcare provider.

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/health-effects/lung-health.html

Menthol Tobacco Products

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Menthol is a compound found naturally in peppermint and similar plants, but it can also be made synthetically. In tobacco products like cigarettes, menthol produces a cooling sensation in the throat and lungs, which reduces the harshness of the smoke and makes it easier to inhale—an effect that can increase the likelihood of addiction. Menthol is not limited to cigarettes; it’s also found in e-cigarettes, cigars, hookah, smokeless tobacco, nicotine pouches, and heated tobacco products. While federal law bans most flavored cigarettes, menthol remains an exception. Nearly all cigarettes sold in the U.S. contain some amount of menthol, but those labeled “menthol” typically contain higher concentrations. In 2021, menthol cigarettes made up 37% of all cigarette sales—the highest level recorded since federal reporting began in 1963.

Key Facts About Menthol in Tobacco Products:

  • Menthol masks harshness:
    Tobacco companies add menthol to make tobacco products feel smoother and more appealing, especially to young people and first-time users.
  • Menthol increases addiction risk:
    Menthol enhances nicotine’s effects on the brain, making tobacco products even more addictive. Some menthol cigarettes now contain higher levels of nicotine.
  • Menthol makes quitting harder:
    People who smoke menthol cigarettes are generally less likely to successfully quit compared to those who smoke non-menthol cigarettes.
  • Targeted marketing:
    Tobacco companies aggressively market menthol products to specific groups, particularly Black communities.
  • Disproportionate impact:
    Higher rates of menthol cigarette use are found among:
    • Young people
    • Racial and ethnic minorities
    • LGBTQ+ individuals
    • Women
    • People with low income
    • People with mental health conditions
  • Solutions for reducing menthol use:
    • Increase access to quitting resources like counseling and medications
    • Implement policies to restrict or reduce menthol tobacco product sales

As menthol continues to dominate the flavored cigarette market, public health experts warn that its smooth and cooling properties can mask the dangers of smoking, especially for new users. Understanding the role of menthol in tobacco products is essential for communities and policymakers working to reduce smoking rates and protect public health—especially among youth and communities disproportionately targeted by menthol marketing.

*Eliminating tobacco flavor serves as a vital measure to shield the youth from the dangers of smoking, curbing its appeal and dissuading the commencement of a hazardous habit.*

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/menthol-tobacco/index.html

About Youth Violence

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Youth violence doesn’t just cause immediate harm—it can have lasting consequences on a young person’s physical, mental, and social well-being. Exposure to violence during adolescence can disrupt healthy development, impair decision-making, and create challenges with learning. It can also lead to difficulty forming positive connections with peers and trusted adults, as well as make it harder to manage stress and emotions over time.

The health and social effects of youth violence are deeply concerning, especially because they are not evenly distributed across all communities. Communities of color, particularly Black or African American youth, are disproportionately affected. Youth violence is linked to a range of negative outcomes including mental health struggles, substance use, obesity, risky sexual behaviors, depression, academic failure, and even suicide. It also increases the risk of future violence—both as a victim and perpetrator. On a broader level, violence strains community systems by raising healthcare costs, reducing property values, impacting school attendance, and limiting access to support services.

Every day, thousands of young people are affected by youth violence across the United States. This crisis touches every type of community—urban, suburban, rural, and tribal. The impact is widespread, both in human suffering and economic cost. Below are some key facts and highlights based on U.S. data:

Key Facts & Highlights:

  • Youth violence is common
    • Homicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for youth ages 10–24.
    • It is the leading cause of death for non-Hispanic Black or African American youth.
    • Over 800 youth are treated in emergency departments each day for assault-related injuries.
  • Some youth are more at risk
    • Sexual minority teens experience more types of violence than their heterosexual peers.
    • Black or African American youth are at higher risk for severe violence, including homicides, aggravated assaults, and fights causing injuries.
  • Youth violence is costly
    • In 2020, youth homicides and assault-related injuries cost an estimated $122 billion.
    • These costs include medical care, lost productivity, and reduced quality of life—not including criminal justice expenses.
  • Impact of COVID-19
    • The economic burden of youth violence increased by 17% from 2019 to 2020.
    • 2019: $105 billion → 2020: $122 billion

Prevention is not only possible—it’s essential. Protecting youth means addressing both the individual and societal factors that increase or decrease the risk of violence. Long-standing systemic inequities, like concentrated poverty, residential segregation, and racism, must be addressed to create safer, healthier environments for all youth. Effective prevention strategies consider the full context in which young people grow up, especially for those from racial and ethnic minority communities. Tackling the root causes of violence is key to breaking cycles of harm and supporting young people in becoming healthy, thriving adults.

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

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

Public Health Strategies for Tobacco Prevention and Control

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Commercial tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the U.S., disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. For decades, tobacco companies have strategically targeted youth, low-income communities, and racial and ethnic minorities, increasing access to and appeal of tobacco products. Social factors like poverty, discrimination, and adverse childhood experiences further contribute to tobacco use, making it harder for individuals to quit. Addressing these disparities through evidence-based strategies—such as tobacco-free policies, cessation support, and restrictions on tobacco marketing—can help reduce tobacco-related health inequities and protect future generations.

Key Facts About Tobacco Use and Its Impact:

  • Targeted Marketing: Tobacco companies have historically marketed their products more aggressively to youth, low-income communities, and racial and ethnic minorities.
  • Health Disparities: People with mental health conditions and substance use disorders face higher rates of tobacco-related disease and death.
  • Secondhand Smoke Exposure: Comprehensive smoke-free policies in workplaces, schools, and multi-unit housing help protect public health.
  • Cessation Support: Expanding access to affordable quitting resources, including FDA-approved medications and behavioral counseling, increases success rates.
  • Policy Impact: States like California, Massachusetts, and Michigan have made significant progress through tobacco-free laws and retailer restrictions.

Eliminating tobacco-related disparities requires a collective effort. By supporting smoke-free policies, promoting access to cessation resources, and addressing targeted marketing, we can create healthier communities for all. If you or someone you know is trying to quit, seek out proven resources and support systems. Together, we can work toward a future free from the harms of commercial tobacco.

**Reducing access to flavored tobacco products decreases the likelihood of peer pressure to try tobacco.**

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/reach/php/strategies/tobacco-prevention-control.html

The Effects of Marijuana on the Teenage and Young Adult Brain

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Marijuana, known for its mind-altering effects due to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is one of the most widely used substances in the United States. In 2021, 11.8 million young adults aged 18 to 25 reported using marijuana, while 30.7% of 12th graders admitted to using it within the past year. With the legalization of marijuana in many states, its use has become more socially acceptable, particularly among teens and young adults. However, the adolescent brain continues developing until age 25, and marijuana use during this critical period can disrupt brain development, impair memory, learning, and decision-making, and lead to long-term cognitive issues. Additionally, chronic marijuana use in youth is linked to a loss of IQ, poor academic performance, increased risk of depression and anxiety, and even addiction.

Key Factors of Marijuana Use and Its Risks:

  • Cognitive Impairment: Problems with attention, concentration, memory, and learning.
  • Poor Decision-Making: Reduced coordination, slower reaction time, and impaired judgment.
  • Academic and Professional Impact: Lower performance, increased likelihood of dropping out, and reduced career opportunities.
  • Mental Health Risks: Higher chances of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Addiction Potential: Regular use of high-THC products can lead to marijuana use disorder, especially in those who start young.

Choosing a healthier lifestyle free from marijuana can help young people reach their full potential, both mentally and physically. If you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana use, seeking support from a counselor, healthcare provider, or support group can make a significant difference. Making informed decisions about substance use is essential for long-term well-being, leading to a future filled with greater opportunities, stronger relationships, and improved overall health.

Reference: https://americanaddictioncenters.org/marijuana-rehab/effects-of-marijuana-on-teenage-brain

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