Coping with Moods

by Jean Ford

Published 1 September 2013
Have you ever been laughing one moment-and crying the next? How about so angry you could throw something-and then suddenly burst out laughing? All of us have experienced mood swings like this, and they're even more common during adolescence. Rapidly changing emotions-from contentment to irritability, anger to despair, euphoria to despondency-are common occurrences during your teen years. What causes these shifts in mood? The sources vary, but for most teens, two main agents are involved: brain chemistry and life changes. The same hormonal activity that brings about the body changes teens experience also triggers changes in your brain. At the same time, your relationships with your family and friends are changing, you have more responsibilities and freedoms than ever before, and you face a whole new set of pressures. All these things can turn your life into a series of emotional peaks and valleys. But there is hope. This book will help you understand what's happening to you-and it will offer practical coping mechanisms. Don't worry. You too can survive the roller coaster!

Allergies & Asthma

by Jean Ford

Published 1 September 2013
What do cats, dogs, peanuts, latex, mold, bee venom, pollen, and shellfish all have in common? They're all common allergens; they cause allergic reactions in many people. With so many potential triggers, it's no wonder allergies are a major cause of illness in North America. In fact, allergies affect about 20 percent of the entire population. That means for every five people you know, one probably itches or sneezes from something sometimes. That might include you. Asthma is one of the many illnesses allergies can cause. Since asthma and allergies are chronic conditions-in other words, they don't go away-they require constant management. The better informed you are, the better you will be able to live with allergies or asthma. This book will show you how to take control of allergies and asthma. The first step is to form a partnership with your doctor or other medical practitioner. Don't let allergies or asthma control your life. Get informed...take action...and breathe easy.

Growth & Development

by Jean Ford

Published 1 September 2013
You're not a little kid anymore. When you look in the mirror, you probably see someone who is taller...bigger...with a face that looks more like an adult's than a child's. The changes you're experiencing on the inside-in your mind and emotions-may be even more intense than the ones everyone can see on the outside. Growth and development during adolescence involves every aspect of your identity. All these changes can be exciting...and scary. But these changes are entirely normal. This book will help you understand what's happening to you. Every adult has gone through the same intellectual, emotional, sexual, and social changes you're experiencing. Some people progress through these changes faster than others, some earlier, some later. Each teen is unique. Wherever you fall on the spectrum of growth and development, don't worry-you're right on schedule!