504 Plan for Anxiety: How to Qualify and Get One for Your Teen

Does anxiety qualify for a 504 plan? Learn the eligibility rules, how to request one, and what accommodations actually help teens. Guide from Portum Wellness.
School Refusal in Teens: Signs, Causes, and How to Get Help

Learn what school refusal looks like in teens, why it happens, and when to seek treatment. A trauma-informed guide from Portum Wellness, Annandale NJ.
Getting a Head Start on the Back-to-School Transition After Treatment

Returning to school after PHP, IOP, or aftercare is a real transition. Here’s how families can start preparing before the first day back — not after.
Summer Depression in Teens: Why the “Happiest Time of Year” Isn’t for Everyone

Summer isn’t easier for every teen. Here’s why some adolescents experience real depression during summer break, what it looks like, and when to get support.
Teenage Mood Swings: What’s Normal and When to Worry

Some mood swings can be normal in adolescence. Hormones, brain development, sleep changes, peer stress, academic pressure, and growing independence can all play a role. However, it is not uncommon for mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder to start at around this age. So, how do you tell the difference as a parent? Mood […]
Signs of Teen Drug Use: What Parents Should Look For and What to Do Next

How do you talk to your teen if you think they’re using drugs? A lot of resources tell parents what not to do, but it’s less common to come across what to do. It’s best to stay calm, choose a private moment, name specific signs, and ask direct but non-accusatory questions. If problems persist, professional […]