As a new school year begins, students, particularly adolescents face a range of emotions and challenges. Academic pressures, peer pressure, body image and self-esteem issues, performance anxiety and bullying are just a few of the challenges that students can encounter. According to the National Institute for Mental Health approximately 20% of adolescents experience mental health disorders, typically beginning around age 14. On this Line One, host Dr. Jillian Woodruff explores the most common mental health disorders that affect adolescents, the crucial evaluations that help identify these issues, and the diverse range of treatments that can make a positive impact on their lives.

The US Surgeon General recently released an advisory on how social media helps and hurts youth mental health. There are positive impacts but social media can also increase depression and anxiety. On this Line One, host Prentiss Pemberton talks with Jennifer Gessert, a therapist specializing in technology addiction. They discuss how social media impacts kids and teens.

The use of acupuncture and alternative medicine techniques has greatly increased over the last several decades in the United States, particularly in the treatment of chronic pain. What are the common uses for acupuncture and herbal medicine, and how is it used in combination with Western medicine? Join host Dr Justin Clark. As he explores these topics on this episode of Line One: Your Health Connection.

On this episode of Line One host and clinical therapist Prentiss Pemberton devotes an hour to answering called and emailed questions about mental health, behavioral health, and emotional well-being.

E-cigarette use among teenagers has skyrocketed in recent years, including in Alaska. A recent report from the Food and Drug Administration shows that one in ten middle and high schoolers report using e-cigarettes, overwhelmingly with sweet flavors like fruits or candy. What are the risks of vaping, especially at a young age, and what can parents and students do to bring these numbers down? Join Host Dr. Justin Clark as he explores these topics on this episode of Line One.

Genetic testing provides valuable information for patients and families about the risk of developing certain cancers, known diseases OR, whether someone is a carrier of a genetic disease. Testing encodes the small traits of our DNA which can help us to prepare for or prevent future health issues. How does this information empower people and What role do genetic counselors play in medical decisions? Join host Dr. Jillian Woodruff as she explores these topics on this episode of Line One.

Summer has arrived in Alaska, at least as far as the trees are concerned. Pollen counts are high and it seems everyone is sneezing, coughing, and wheezing. Do you have questions about seasonal allergies? What about pet allergies or food allergies? Do you suffer from allergic rhinitis or asthma? Join host Dr Justin Clark as he explores these topics and more on this episode of Line One.

Emergency Departments are known for management and stabilization of critical patients, but the transition to inpatient hospital care and later discharge are another critical part of the process. Hospitalist and emergency department physicians collaborate to provide 24-hour care to patients in emergency situations. On this Line One, Host Dr. Jillian Woodruff unlocks the secrets of emergency care.

Today’s youth are constantly bombarded with the allure of harmful substances on social media. The highlight reel nature of social media misses the stark impacts that drugs and alcohol can have on us. On the next Line One, host Dr. Jillian Woodruff dives into the struggles that young people experience, with a conversation aimed at seeking compassion, and building trust.

Ketamine was approved for Treatment Resistant Depression in 2019 and has quickly become a growing treatment option for this challenging form of depression. Despite the current buzz around this newly approved approach, many questions remain. How safe is Ketamine? What are the side effects? And is it effective? On this Line One, host Prentiss Pemberton and his guest discuss the uses, risks, and benefits of Ketamine in treating mental health conditions.