Unpacking the Teenage Brain

January 24, 2025January 26, 2024 by Laurie Stroud

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Here’s to your Health

Brought to you by: Community Partner Compact, www.compact2020.com

Did you know big things are happening in the brain during adolescence and that the brain isn’t fully developed until the mid-twenties? Studies show that adolescence is a unique phase in development in which the reward center of the brain is more active or tends to shout louder than the logical portion. The logical portion is the front part of the brain called the pre-frontal cortex. It is one of the last brain regions to mature. This area is responsible for skills like planning, prioritizing, and controlling impulses. The reward or pleasure-seeking portion of the brain is what tends to take charge in the teenage years- especially during stressful times. Because the logical skills are still developing and the reward center takes a lead in decision making, teens are more likely to engage in risky behaviors or make decisions without considering the potential results.

Anxiety Vulnerability. According to the National Institutes of Health, nearly one in three of all adolescents will experience an anxiety disorder. According to the CDC, anxiety is at its highest in youth between 12 to 17 years old. These numbers have been on the rise for many years. Hospital admissions for suicidal teenagers have more than doubled over the past decade. Due to the big changes the brain is undergoing during these years, teens are more vulnerable to issues with emotion regulation such as anxiety and depression. Be aware of the potential signs of anxiety including:

Recurring fears and worries
Changes in behavior
Avoiding activities, school or social interactions
Dropping grades
Trouble sleeping

It is important to talk with teens about potential stressors and help them keep perspective and find ways to cope.

Drug Vulnerability. As a teen’s brain develops, drugs can damage the way they process experiences. The specific effect depends on the type of drug being used. There are three main categories of drugs- each with a different set of effects on the brain.

1. Stimulants: Cause teen brains to produce an unnatural amount of energy causing heart racing, rising body temperature, and fast breathing.

2. Depressants: Cause decrease in energy, slows breathing and heart rates, and lowers body temperature.

3. Hallucinogens: Affect the brain’s perception of reality. Teens that use them can have delusional thoughts.

The good news is that the brain is ready to learn. It can change, adapt, and react to the environment. It is resilient and responds quickly to treatment. For more information, visit Facebook @Compact2020 or call 205-605-1827. To read more articles like this, visit www.BirminghamChristian.com/COMPACT. †

Did you know COMPACT offers free prevention, intervention, and education for Shelby County students and parents on difficult topics and issues like substance misuse, truancy, behavioral issues, and more? Click to fill out a referral form.

December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

The Great Outdoors

Even in the bitterest of cold January months, most of our eyes and hearts will start to drift toward spring. A few hunters, our family included, will stay focused on what we call the “deer woods” through mid-February, but even for us, after that, all eyes will turn toward the hope of seeds soon to be planted and blossoms to bud.

Banks fishing — Society demands results and satisfaction… now. Our kids are learning that harmful lesson from far too many places. Hunting and fishing, especially with a cane pole, teach my daughter Banks and her friends to be patient. All good things come to those who wait… and that is a virtue, after all.

My wife, Hannah, loves to garden. We plant a row crop garden with the tractor and back yard gardens in what most folks would call a watering trough. Our girls enjoy gardening too… especially our youngest, Banks and our oldest, Bay. The Middle Princess, her name is Cape, well… she loves to hunt… gardening, not so much.

Cape, a senior in high school, hunts more than I do these days. Bay, now a Junior at Ole Miss, will “go” hunting with me, though she doesn’t always carry her own gun. She goes just so we can spend time together… “she and I,” as Randy Owen once sang. Banks, an eighth grader, hunts with me regularly, too. And Randy is right… that time she and I spend together is “great and wonderful.”

Walt Merrell with grandfather — My grandfather, Marvin Merrell, was the first true outdoorsman I ever knew. All these years later, the trips we took and the stories that remain, still ring in the recesses of my heart. That sidewalk and boat house are Ebenezers Stones too…. I recently went back to that very house after years in absence, and the memories where joyfully overwhelming.

The girls’ grandfather, my dad, grew up in Sylacauga. He hunted quail more than anything as a child. Back then, quail were prevalent, and quail hunting was a favorite pastime of Alabama gentlemen hunters. His dad, though… my grandfather, was a deer hunter. In 1959 he killed what was then a massive buck – all eight basket points. I still have the deer mount hanging on the wall in my study. He signed his name and dated the plywood backing. It smells slightly of formaldehyde, and it looks like a fawn hanging next to some of the deer we have taken in more recent years. He killed that buck near Talladega… in the National Forest. It was a prize that is rumored to have made several newspapers at the time.

And though its small compared to more well-developed deer, it’s a prize to me today. Because of the memories it represents. Sometimes when I write about fishing adventures with my grandfather, or time spent at his Lay Lake cabin, I stare at the now 63-year-old relic… and recall catching bream or snapping turtles. For you see… that deer mount is not a trophy. To me, it’s something of an Ebeneezer Stone that reminds me of the things my grandfather taught me. Every time I see it, I think of him and the lessons I learned along the way.

I’ve been intentional through the years to Shepherd my girls into adulthood, by way of the great Outdoors. Fact is, every time we go hunting, or work in the garden, or any other outdoor adventure we have, they learn so much more about life than they do about anything else. And I want to teach them those life lessons, because others did the same for me…

What say you, all who are winter baron in the doldrums of a cold world? What seed do you plan to plant when the thaw comes? I pray its one that will bear fruit… for the harvest is plenty.

Let’s go…. Shepherding Outdoors.

-Walt Merrell

A Christian Outdoorsman who writes of his adventures with his family, with the hope that others might be inspired and encouraged to embrace God’s tapestry, otherwise known as the great outdoors, as a means of finding Common Ground. You can follow him at Shepherding Outdoors on FB, YT and IG and at shepherdingoutdoors.com. His most recent book is available at shepherdingbook.com. Read his faith story here.

December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

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The Home Front

Let’s talk about your home search. Have you stopped looking during the busy holiday season? Do you feel too tired of the search? If you have been on the fence about buying over the last year, let me tell you why this could be the best time for you to be looking and not pausing your search.

The holiday season is typically considered a “dead period” for house hunting. I know you feel like you have seen everything on the market already but there are still homes being listed for sale. This is the time of year when you could find a true diamond in the rough. Put your realtor to work! Trust me, I want to work hard for you. It is not only my job, but I love the challenge of finding the missing puzzle piece that is your perfect home. Your Facebook search won’t allow for all the upcoming listings that realtors have access to. We have an extensive network of professionals we work with that will only benefit you as a client. We have our thumb on the market in our area and we know what’s coming before any algorithm does.

With interest rates dropping recently, and at least three predicted rate drops throughout 2024, this is the time to strike! If you have been in the market for a home and have done all the things i.e. pre-approval, have your budget set, know your wants vs needs, and hired a realtor with knowledge of your desired area… do not wait any longer! In the next 8-10 weeks, we will most likely have a repeat of the last year. We will have less inventory than we need and too many buyers. If you were in that boat last year, let’s avoid having to live through lost opportunities again. Reach out to me today and let’s start 2024 in your new home!

From my home to yours, let’s go house hunting!

-Kasey Owens

Realtor, EXIT Realty Cahaba

[email protected]

205-913-6368

www.EXITRealtyCahaba.com

December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

The Home Front

Did you know…

Electrical injuries account for 1,000 deaths each year.
30,000 shock incidents occur each year.
20% of all electrical injuries occur in children.

When is the last time your home had an electrical safety evaluation?

Thaxter Pittman, owner of Total Power Electric, founded his company on the principle of keeping your home safe with solutions you can depend on. Total Power Electric offers a full range of electrical services including electrical repairs, installations, and replacements.

As a family man, Thaxter can relate to his customers prioritizing safety in their homes. He and his wife have been married for over 16 years. Together, they have 4 children. Thaxter is a devout Christian who stepped out on faith to start his company with over 18 years of electrical experience. This is why Thaxter understands with something so important as the safety of you and your loved ones, it is important to choose the right electrical company to put your mind at ease as you go into the New Year. Total Power Electric is an electrical company with technicians that have over a decade of electrical experience to help ensure your family and home are safe for the New Year.

Good electricians know the importance of electrical safety. For this reason, Total Power Electric will perform a free safety inspection of your home. Having an electrical checkup is a highly valued service offered by Total Power Electric. Too often electrical issues are overlooked until there is already a problem. This can not only become expensive but also dangerous. Safety evaluations check the efficiency of your home’s electrical devices to ensure your home is as safe as possible for you and the ones you care about most.

Pittman’s company name gives a nod to his initials, T. P., and serves as a reminder that God is in Total Power of his business and his life.

Common Electrical Hazards found during safety evaluations:

Outdated smoke detectors that can lead to your home catching fire in the middle of the night without you knowing.
Not having GFCIs in the right location that can lead to electrical shock hazards.
Lack of Surge Protection. Surge Protectors protect your electrical equipment from power surges or “spikes” that can cause significant damage to your electronic devices, equipment and appliances and can lead to fire sparks.

If you would like to let Total Power Electric keep your home safe or if you have any other electrical needs, call them at 205-855-9297. You can also book online at www.totalpwrelectric.com. †

December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Special Feature

Did you know that the Magic City has a locally owned delivery service? Kats Delivery Inc, which operates under trade names Kats and The TakeOut Bham, was founded in 2014 after owner Maurice Mercer saw a need.

Mercer first witnessed the need after his mother, the late Kathryn Jenkins, RN MSN retired UAB nurse, was diagnosed with Scleroderma, an autoimmune disability that limited her ability to do even the most normal of day-to-day activities, including her grocery shopping. While Mercer lived close enough and was able to shop for his mom, the former UAB charge nurse began to think of those who did not have the support she did. This inspired him to create Kats Delivery and Mercer named the business after his mother.

Since 2014, Kats has grown to serve many clients in cities across Alabama including Clanton and Troy. In addition, in December 2021, Kats acquired Birmingham staple, The TakeOut Bham, which was originally founded in 2010. Kats primarily services areas I-65 South Hoover- Shelby County. The TakeOut Bham services downtown Birmingham, Jefferson County, and Highway 280 East into Shelby. While Kats began as a grocery delivery company, the company has expanded its services to include on-demand restaurant delivery, catering delivery, and white label meal prep delivery.

Kats has been recognized as the 2019 Shelby County Small Business of the Year. In 2021, Mercer was also nominated for the CEO award given by the Birmingham Business Journal. Kats is always looking for responsible and professional drivers. Most of the current drivers have over one year tenure but several have three to four years. “It is important to have reliable professional drivers,” Mercer said, adding, “All professional drivers looking to add to their gig opportunities should visit our website and join our team.”

Kats has managed to maneuver and survive the pandemic. Mercer stresses the importance of supporting local businesses and Alabama-based businesses. Throughout the years as a business owner, Mercer has never wavered in his faith. As a believer, Mercer has even lost customers and couriers as a result of sharing his faith. “My faith is what has sustained us these nine years,” he says, adding that he knows God has a plan for him and the customers he serves. “We are grateful for our long-term customers who continue to stick by us over the years.” Birmingham Christian Family readers who visit www.KatsDelivery.com can use code BC2024 or www.TheTakeOutBham.com use code 2024BC for $10 OFF your next purchase. †

December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

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Parenting Points

As the calendar turns to January, Christians worldwide celebrate Epiphany, a festival that marks the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles. Traditionally observed on January 6, Epiphany is a time of reflection and rejoicing as we commemorate the visit of the wise men to the baby Jesus, signifying the revelation of Christ’s light to the world.

Epiphany symbolizes the extension of God’s salvation to the Gentiles, emphasizing the truth seen throughout the Scriptures that Jesus came not only for a particular group but for all people. Guided by a star, the wise men from the East journeyed to find the newborn King. The star led them to Bethlehem, where they encountered the child Jesus and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Epiphany allows our families to reflect on the story of the wise men and the guiding light of the star, pointing them to Jesus. In this season, your family can use the story of the wise men to reflect how we can also be lights pointing people to Jesus. Here are four ideas.

1. Star Gazing. Spend an evening stargazing with your family. Reflect on the star that guided the wise men and discuss how Christ’s light guides your lives.

2. Gift of Light. Light candles as a family, symbolizing the light of Christ. Discuss how this light dispels darkness and represents the presence of Jesus in your home.

3. Gifts of Service: Encourage family members to give the gift of service. Discuss ways you can extend kindness and help to others, mirroring the generosity of the wise men.

4. Sharing the Light. Brainstorm some people you know who do not yet have a relationship with Jesus. Spend some time praying for an opportunity for you to point your light on Jesus by sharing about Him.

Epiphany not only looks back at the historical event but also invites us to look forward. It prompts us to consider how we, like the wise men, can seek and recognize the presence of Christ in our lives in the coming year and share the light of Jesus with others. As we begin a new year, Epiphany reminds us that the light of Christ continues to guide us. The wise men’s journey reminds us of the joy of discovering and worshiping the Savior. We are also reminded how God calls us to be the light pointing all peoples from all places to the hope we have in Jesus.

-Dr. Ben Birdsong

Missions Minister at Christ Church Birmingham

Writer and Speaker

www.benbirdsong.com

February 25, 2024December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

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Money Matters

Managing your finances and investing for your future are important tasks — and they can be challenging, but you don’t have to go it alone. Many people benefit from working with a financial advisor, someone who knows their needs and goals and makes appropriate recommendations. If you’re considering getting some help, here are some questions to consider.

Have you worked with people like me? All of us are unique individuals. Yet, you do share certain characteristics with others — age, income, family situation, and so on. You might feel comfortable knowing that a financial advisor has worked with people like you and can readily understand and appreciate your needs and specific goals. The more information you can provide about yourself upfront, the better your chances of finding a good match.

Do you have a particular investment philosophy? Some financial advisors follow a particular investment style, while others might focus on specific investments or categories. There’s nothing inherently wrong with these types of approaches, but you might be better served by working with someone who takes a broader view — one that emphasizes helping clients meet their goals over any philosophy or strategy.

How will you communicate with me? Open and frequent communication are key to a successful relationship with a financial advisor. So, you’ll want to know what you can expect. Will you have annual or semi-annual reviews of your accounts? In between these reviews, can you contact your advisor at any time with questions you may have?

How do you define success for your clients? Some investors track their portfolios’ performance against that of a specific market index, such as the S&P 500. But, these types of benchmarks can be misleading. For one thing, investors should strive for a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other investments, whereas the S&P 500 only tracks the largest U.S. stocks. When you talk to potential financial advisors about how they define success for their clients, you may want to look for responses that go beyond numbers.

How are you compensated? Financial advisors are compensated in different ways — some work on commissions, some charge fees, and some combine fees and commissions. There isn’t necessarily any best method, from a client’s point of view, but you should clearly understand how a potential advisor is compensated before you begin a professional relationship.

These aren’t the only questions you might ask a potential financial advisor, but they’ll give you a good start. When you’re trusting someone to help you with your financial goals, you want to be completely comfortable with that individual, so ask whatever is on your mind.

Watch the video below to find more information on questions to ask financial advisors.

– Laci P Graul, CRPS™

Financial Advisor

205-573-0228

www.edwardjones.com

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Money Matters

During the month of January, Pelham’s Benefield & Hamner, CPA offers these four simple steps to make your tax filing easier this year.

Make a file or area to gather all tax information together as you receive it throughout the month.
Make sure your contact information is correct with your tax preparer.
Request your annual prescription report from your pharmacy if claiming medical deductions.
Check your driver’s license to make sure the date has not expired.

-Benefield & Hamner, Certified Public Accountants

206 Huntley Pkwy, Pelham, AL 35124

205-621-4033, www.cpabh.com

December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Happy new year 2024. Hanging white paper number with confetti on

Encouraging Word

Beginning a new year, you normally do two things. You look back by remembering, reviewing, and reflecting. You then look forward as you resolve to focus on what goals need to be set and what steps need to be taken to be productive and successful. In Joshua 1:5-9, we are given four ingredients to success: God’s Promise, God’s presence, our preparation; and God’s provision.

1. God’s Promise. Joshua 1:5 tells us that God promises to be with us and He will never fail us or forsake us. God promises to empower us and give us victory as we encounter various tests, trials, tribulations, and temptations. We need to be aware of God’s promises and activate them.

2. God’s Presence. Joshua 1:5-9 teaches us that we always have God’s presence. God is omnipresent and His Holy Spirit comes to dwell in the life of the born-again Christ follower. John 14:16 says the Holy Spirit will be with the Christian forever. I Corinthians 6:19 says, the believer’s body is a temple (dwelling place) of the Holy Spirit.

3. Our Preparation. Joshua 1:6-9 gives us four areas that we need to focus on. We are to:

Be strong – able to withstand pressure and show determination.
Be courageous – moral strength; not deterred by danger, fear, or adversity.
Observe (obey) – very attentive; to comply with.
Be focused – determined; and committed.

4. God’s Provision. Joshua 1:7-8 teaches the importance of Scripture. We need to read, meditate, receive, believe, apply, obey, and live it. II Timothy 3:16, 17 and Psalm 119:11, 105 tell us the value and necessity of Scripture.

As we begin a New Year let us make use of God’s promise, God’s presence, God’s provision, and the need for our preparation. May you have a very blessed 2024.

-Tony Cooper

Director Emeritus of Jimmie Hale Mission

www.jimmiehalemission.com

January 17, 2024December 28, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Legal Matters

If the state will provide a method for distributing assets after one’s death, why even bother making an estate plan? Alabama has intestacy statutes in its code, and they provide a method for the orderly transition of assets to a person’s heirs. It costs money to make an estate plan. It takes time. More than that, making an estate plan forces a person to consider the shape of the world when they are no longer in it, which is not something everyone wants to consider. Not everyone is interested in brooding on their own death and having to pay to do so.

Control. Control is the answer to the question in the previous paragraph. An estate plan provides an individual with a degree of control over their own affairs while alive, and allows an individual to maintain some control of their property even after death.

An estate plan typically includes at least three documents: a durable power of attorney, an advanced directive, and a will.

A durable power of attorney allows someone to designate an agent who may act on their behalf. The power of attorney document may specify when an agent may act and what actions the agent may take.

An advanced directive allows a person to make decisions about end-of-life care. It is the document where a person can state whether or not they wish to be kept alive by artificial means, specify the types of care and feeding that they wish to receive, and make similar decisions. It allows individuals to make those decisions for themselves, rather than waiting until something happens that forces the decision on a family member or health care worker.

A will allows an individual to specify who, or what, will receive their property, after the individual’s death. Further, when a will is written to work in conjunction with a trust, a will allows an individual to exercise a degree of control over their property potentially for many, many years to come.

Thus, when considering whether or not to create an estate plan, ask yourself three questions. First: “Do I wish to exercise a degree of control over my affairs if I am incapacitated?” Second: “Do I wish to exercise a degree of control over my end-of-life medical care?” Third: “Do I wish to exercise a degree of control over my property after my death?” Your answers to those questions will guide whether or not you choose to make an estate plan and will help guide the type of estate plan that you may choose to create.

Watch the video below to learn more about what happens when someone dies without a will.

–Mitchell McNaylor

McNaylor Law, LLC

Shelby County, Ala.

205-419-7377

[email protected]

Unpacking the Teenage Brain

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