PGIO Posts
HomePGIO Posts

Author: PGIO

How Netflix’s Adolescence Exposes the Dangers of Toxic Online Culture-What Parents & Schools Must Do

Netflix’s drama Adolescence has sparked global discussions about the hidden dangers young boys face online. From social media bullying to the influence of incel ideation, this powerful series sheds light on how digital spaces shape adolescent behavior-and what happens when those influences turn toxic.

At Protect a Girl’s Image Organization, we recognize the urgent need to protect boys from harmful online content, equip parents with knowledge and create safe spaces for emotional growth. As the show highlights, boys are often drawn into negative digital spaces that distort their views on relationships, self-worth and masculinity. But with proactive parenting, education and community support, we can change this narrative.

The Rise of Online Toxicity: What Adolescence Teaches Us

The show follows Jamie, a 13-year-old boy accused of a violent crime. As the story unfolds, we see how:

✔️Social media bullying crushes his self-esteem.

✔️Toxic masculinity and incel culture distort his perception of women.

✔️A lack of emotional support leads him to seek validation in dangerous online communities.

Jack Thorne, the show’s creator, reveals that these toxic influences are often subtle and widespread, lurking in video games, social media and forums where boys feel unheard. This mirrors real-life struggles that many parents may not even be aware of.

Why Are Young Boys at Risk? The Role of Social Media & Incel Ideology

Former England football manager Sir Gareth Southgate recently warned about “callous, manipulative and toxic influencers” shaping young men’s worldviews. But the problem extends beyond famous figures like Andrew Tate-it’s embedded in everyday digital interactions.

⚫Incel culture encourages men/boys to blame women for their struggles.

⚫Gaming and social media algorithms expose them to harmful content.

⚫Lack of emotional guidance makes them vulnerable to radical ideas.

This is a crisis-and it’s happening in our schools, homes and communities. If we don’t act, we risk raising a generation of boys who feel isolated, angry and misunderstood.

Radical Solutions: How Parents, Schools & Communities Can Step in

Governments worldwide are discussing drastic measures, such as:

✔️Banning smartphones in schools to limit exposure to harmful content.

✔️Implementing a digital age of consent (like Australia’s under-16 social media ban).

✔️Stronger online regulations to filter out toxic influences.

But policies alone won’t fix this. We need grassroots solutions. Here’s how:

1. Digital Literacy for Youth

⚫Teach children how to critically asses online content.

⚫Encourage healthy discussions about relationships and self-worth.

⚫Introduce social media safety programs in schools.

2. Parental Awareness & Guidance

⚫Stay informed about what your child is consuming online.

⚫Foster open conversations without judgement.

⚫Set screen-time boundaries and monitor digital interactions.

3. Community Mentorship & Safe Spaces

⚫Encourage positive role models and mentors for young boys/men.

⚫Create support groups where boys can express emotions safely.

⚫Provide early intervention for at-risk youth.

Building Digital Resilience: How We Can Protect Our Children

At Protect a Girl’s Image Organization, we are committed to:

✅Raising awareness about the impact of digital toxicity.

✅Providing counselling and mentorship for young boys.

✅Advocating for policies that protect children from online harm.

But we need collective action. Schools, families and communities must work together to equip young people with the emotional tools they need to navigate today’s digital world safely.

👉What do you think? Should social media be restricted for children? Should schools ban smartphones? Let’s discuss in the comments!

If you’re a parent, teacher or concerned citizen, join us in creating safer spaces for the next generation. Visit our website to learn more about our programs and how you can help.

STOP TREATING THEM LIKE FRAGILE EGGS – IT’S TIME TO EMPOWER, NOT SHELTER!

We’ve all seen it. Parents, guardians, coaches – those who are supposed to guide and mentor young people – end up overprotecting them instead. They shield them from struggles, making them feel like they can’t survive on their own. But here’s the truth: overprotection isn’t love; it’s limitation.

At Protect a Girl’s Image Organization, we believe in empowerment over dependency. We are here to break the cycle of raising individuals who feel incapable, insecure and dependent on constant guidance. Instead, wea are nurturing strong, independent and self-sufficient people who can stand on their own.

Breaking the Cycle of Overprotection

Too often, young people are raised in environments where they are protected from failure instead of being prepared for it. They grow up without learning how to handle real-world changes — finances, decision-making, problem-solving — because they’ve always had someone doing it for them.

☑️Overprotection breeds dependency

☑️Dependency kills confidence

☑️Confidence fuels success

So why do we keep shielding young people instead of equipping them to take charge of their own lives?

Our mission is simple:

✅Stop treating them like they’ll break.

✅Teach them how to stand up after falling.

✅Show them they are capable of leading. building and thriving.

From Dependency to Independence

We’ve seen firsthand how mentorship, education and practical skills can transform someone’s future. Instead of handouts, we provide hand-ups — opportunities for individuals to learn, grow and take control of their lives.

Through community leadership programs, entrepreneurship training, and digital skills development, we are ensuring that the next generation isn’t just surviving — they’re thriving.

We challenge parents, teachers and mentors to:

✔️Encourage independence instead of fear.

✔️Let young people face challenges instead of avoiding them.

✔️Empower them with skills instead of keeping them dependent.

The world needs doers, leaders and problem-solvers. But we can’t raise them if we keep treating them like fragile eggs.

Join Us in Empowering the Next Generation!

We’re working to build a future where people stand strong, not wait for rescue. A future where independence is the norm, not the exception.

Join us and let’s raise empowered, independent and fearless individuals together!

 

Breaking the Silence: Why Men’s Mental Health Support Matters More Than Ever

While mental health is the most essential requirement for well-being and high quality of life, mental illness has become an intractable menace in society.

Mental illness is a general term for a group of illnesses creating misery and affecting a person’s thoughts, perception, feelings and behavior. It is a vital aspect of overall well-being encompassing emotional, psychological and social aspects. Men may experience mental health issues differently than women and generally face barriers to seek help. This makes it more deadly and affects every activity of daily living, work, relationships, personal appearance and multiple health areas.

Types of Mental Health Issues in Men

1. PTSD

A common occurrence in men stemming from the witnessing of disturbing and/or dangerous events. These include: combat in war, violence, accidents, assault and natural disasters just to mention but a few. It can in turn result in: distrust, intrusive memories (i.e. frequent flashbacks and nightmares), emotional detachment/ numbness which makes it difficult to feel joy or connect with others, suicidal ideation, avoidance behaviors (including people, places or activities that were once a favorite or that remind them of the trauma.)

Approximately 60% of men ae affected by PTSD. Where women become jittery or anxious as a response, men tend to lash out and become aggressive or even take to abusing drugs and alcohol.

2. Depression

While this may be common in both sexes, it is important to look out for a variety of symptoms.

These include:

  • Sadness or irritability most of the time
  • Focusing becomes difficult
  • Oversleeping
  • Insomnia
  • Isolation even from those formerly close
  • Shifts in appetite
  • Somatic symptoms-They present in physical form such as: pain, fatigue. Usually have an underlying medical cause that may not be fully explained.
  • Guilt
  • Hopelessness
  • Poor self-worth
  • Suicidal thoughts and loss of interest in life are common place

3. Uncommon foci of attention in women but common in men:

  • Body image disorders or eating disorders
  • Counting calories and an excessive tendency to work out
  • Body Dysmorphia Disorder (BDD): paying an unusual high amount of attention to muscle development; extreme obsession with sex organ size, hair and skin

4. Bipolar Depression

Characterized with symptoms of depression together with mania. With the person becoming highly euphoric and feeling energetic.

Other symptoms include:

  • Being easily distractible
  • Excessive talking
  • Increased speed of thoughts and words
  • Wakefulness for consecutive days
  • Making grandiose plans
  • Engaging in risky behavior

Binge drinking is twice as common in men and alcohol is more frequently used in men before committing suicide.

Causes of Mental Health in Men

  • Separation
  • Divorce
  • Relationship Problems
  • Financial Stress
  • Pressures associated with workplace
  • Not having productive or paying work
  • Illness
  • Isolation
  • Becoming a Father
  • Drug and/or alcohol abuse

Challenges

  • Cultural Expectation

Socially constructed norms of masculinity coupled with expectations of being strong and self-reliant are becoming more and more insidious. More often than not, men are socialized to appear strong and suppress emotions. “Be a man!” they say. This contributes to a man keeping to themselves and reluctant to seek help and support. In turn, this causes them to exhibit outwardly directed behaviors. Instead of internalizing feeling like sadness and fear, they express them with anger and aggression.

  • Stigma

They feel that just as they would judge one of their own for describing such symptoms, they themselves will also be judged.

  • Difficulty Recognizing Symptoms

Having a hard time realizing and accepting the symptoms related to various mental health issues.

  • Workplace Culture

Internal communications should emphasize on the freedom of men to talk to their peers or those in safeguarding roles.

It is important to have information on posters and intranets including messaging around confidentiality and the lack of consequences.

Creation of well-being rooms.

Why Mental Illness in Men is Different

Men find it hard to speak mainly because they hate to admit weakness. Having to talk about how they feel and not being able to handle it, especially to a therapist is considered “a woman’s” thing and is equated to being too weak to handle their own problems. On the other hand, mental illness cannot simply be wished away neither can you ignore it and hope that things suddenly get better. If left unchecked, the symptoms become severe and eat at one’s ability to live a full normal life with productivity deteriorating. In some cases their sanity and their will to live are severely impacted and suicide starts to look very appealing.

How to Help

Encouraging men to bring up disturbing symptoms to trusted individuals and helping them find alternative ways to express feelings. Taking a time-out, practicing deep breathing or even simply counting to ten can go a long way.

Another helping factor is guiding them through stress management, encouraging self-care and healthy habits, which can be done while making arrangements for regular times away from stressful situations.

Teach them a healthier way to pass time while keeping a keen eye. This is to ensure they do not hurt themselves or others during acute episodes and helping them deal before they can learn to handle themselves without supervision.

Additional help if needed can be offered through our mental health professionals. Feel free to check through our contact details on our dashboard.

We are here for you and are ready to help. Our space is a safe space

Understanding and Coping with Postpartum Depression (PPD) and Baby Blues

Becoming a mother is a life-changing experience, but for many women, it comes with unexpected emotional challenges. While some new moms feel joy and excitement, others experience mood swings, anxiety, or even deep sadness. These feelings can be attributed to two conditions: baby blues and postpartum depression (PPD).

Baby Blues vs. Postpartum Depression: What’s the Difference?

Baby Blues

Up to 80% of new mothers experience baby blues within the first two to three days after delivery. Symptoms include:
✅ Mood swings
✅ Irritability
✅ Anxiety
✅ Crying spells
✅ Reduced concentration
✅ Sleep disturbances

The good news? Baby blues typically resolve on their own within two weeks without medical intervention.

Postpartum Depression (PPD)

Unlike baby blues, PPD is more severe and lasts longer. It affects about 1 in 7 new mothers and can develop anytime within the first year postpartum or even during pregnancy. Symptoms include:
❌ Intense sadness or hopelessness
❌ Severe anxiety or panic attacks
❌ Difficulty bonding with the baby
❌ Fatigue and loss of energy
❌ Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
❌ Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby

PPD can significantly impact a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby, so seeking help early is crucial.

How to Cope with PPD and Baby Blues

If you or a loved one is struggling, here are some practical ways to manage symptoms and promote recovery:

1. Prioritize Rest and Sleep

Sleep deprivation worsens mood swings. Ask for help with childcare and household tasks so you can get enough rest.

2. Seek Emotional and Social Support

Talking to your partner, family, or friends about your feelings can be therapeutic. Joining a support group for new mothers can also help you feel less alone.

3. Make Time for Self-Care

Engage in activities that bring you joy, such as:
✔ Taking a warm bath
✔ Reading a book
✔ Exercising or practicing yoga
✔ Meditating or deep breathing exercises

4. Eat a Balanced Diet

Poor nutrition can worsen mood swings. Eat a diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support emotional well-being.

5. Be Kind to Yourself

Motherhood is overwhelming, and perfection is not the goal. Allow yourself to feel what you feel without guilt.

6. Seek Professional Help

PPD is a medical condition that may require professional intervention. Therapy options include:
🔹 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change negative thought patterns.
🔹 Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and communication.
🔹 Psychotherapy: Offers personalized support for emotional healing.

The Impact of PPD on Relationships

PPD can put significant strain on relationships, even when the partner is supportive. If you or your partner are struggling:

✔ Learn about PPD to understand what’s happening
✔ Keep communication open and honest
✔ Avoid taking criticism or mood swings personally
✔ Postpone major life decisions (career, financial, or relationship) until recovery
✔ Share responsibilities to prevent resentment
✔ Make time for couple bonding
✔ Seek professional counseling if needed

How to Support a Mother (or Father) Experiencing PPD

If someone close to you is struggling with PPD:

✅ Be patient—recovery takes time
✅ Encourage open discussions about their emotions
✅ Listen without judgment and validate their feelings
✅ Help with household chores and baby care so they can rest
✅ Promote self-care—remind them to eat well, sleep, and engage in enjoyable activities
✅ Avoid body-shaming or pressuring weight loss
✅ Limit visitors if needed—allow them space to recover

Above all, remind them that they are not alone and that help is available.

Final Thoughts

Postpartum depression is real, common, and treatable. If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out for help—whether from family, friends, a support group, or a healthcare professional. Motherhood is a journey, and no one should walk it alone.

Breaking the Cycle: Poverty Eradication, Teenage Pregnancy, and the Role of Both Girls and Boys

Poverty and teenage pregnancy are critical challenges affecting both girls and boys. While much attention is given to empowering young girls, it is equally important to involve boys in conversations about responsibility, education, and economic empowerment. At Protect a Girl’s Image Organization, we believe that sustainable change happens when both genders are given the knowledge, resources, and opportunities to make informed choices.

The Link Between Poverty and Teenage Pregnancy

Poverty limit opportunities for education, healthcare, and employment, increasing the likelihood of teenage pregnancies. Both girls and boys face challenges that contribute to this issue, such as:

  • Lack of education – When boys and girls drop out of school due to poverty, they are more likely to engage in risky behavior that leads to early pregnancies.
  • Limited access to reproductive health knowledge – Many young people grow up without proper guidance on relationships, contraception, and personal responsibility.
  • Economic hardship and peer pressure – Boys from impoverished backgrounds may feel pressure to prove their masculinity through early sexual activity, while girls may feel compelled to engage in relationships for financial survival.
  • Cultural norms and gender roles – In many communities, girls bear the consequences of early pregnancies, while boys are often not held accountable.

The Consequences of Teenage Pregnancy for Both Boys and Girls

Teenage pregnancy affects both genders and has long-term social and economic consequences:

  • For Girls

  • School dropout, limiting career opportunities.
  • Increased health risks during childbirth.
  • Financial instability and emotional distress.

  • For Boys

  • Sudden financial responsibility without preparation.
  • Increased risk of dropping out of school to provide for a child.
  • Limited job opportunities due to lack of education or skills.

When boys are left out of the conversation, they may unknowingly contribute to the problem instead of being part of the solution.

How Protect a Girl’s Image Organization is Helping Both Boys and Girls

Despite the name, our approach focuses on empowering both genders to make informed choices, prevent teenage pregnancies, and break free from poverty.

1. Education and Awareness for Boys and Girls

We conduct school-based programs and community workshops to educate young people about reproductive health, financial literacy, and responsible decision-making.

2. Financial Empowerment for Families

We provide zero-interest loans to struggling families, reducing the economic pressures that lead to early marriages and risky behavior among both boys and girls.

3. School Fee Assistance for Boys and Girls

By covering tuition costs for vulnerable students, we ensure both boys and girls complete their education and secure better futures.

4. Mentorship and Life Skills Training

We pair young boys and girls with mentors who guide them on topics like career choices, self-discipline, and healthy relationships.

5. Engaging Boys as Advocates for Change

We encourage boys to take responsibility in preventing teenage pregnancies by promoting respect, consent, and accountability in relationships.

How You Can Help: Join the Movement!

Creating a future free from poverty and teenage pregnancy requires a collective effort. Here’s how you can get involved:

✅Donate – Help us expand our education, mentorship, and support programs.

✅Volunteer – Become a mentor, speaker, or advocate for boys and girls.

✅Spread Awareness – Share this message on social media to help more people understand the role of both genders in breaking the cycle.

Final Thoughts

Poverty eradication and teenage pregnancy prevention are not just issues for girls – they affect boys, families, and entire communities. By empowering both genders, we can create lasting change and open doors for a brighter, more equal future.

Be part of the solution. Support our mission today!

🎇Donate Now

🎇Volunteer

🎇Learn More

Click the following links to follow us on our social media platforms and stay updated:

Instagram

Twitter

Threads

And to enjoy a more personalized experience, click here to read this piece written by one of our Peer educators. Enjoy!!!

A Surprise Visit Filled With Joy: Witnessing Gratitude in Action

At PGIO, we often see struggles, resilience and hope in the lives of those we serve. But this past weekend, we experienced something truly special — a surprise visit to a local church where some of our beneficiaries worship. What we witnessed was a powerful display of faith, gratitude, and joy that left us deeply inspired.

Finding Joy in Worship

As we stepped into the church, we were immediately embraced by an atmosphere of celebration and thanksgiving. The congregation was singing, clapping, and dancing — not because life was easy, but because they were grateful for what they had.

Many of these families face hardships, loss, and uncertainty, yet their faith in God remains unwavering. They weren’t dwelling on what was missing; instead, they rejoiced in His blessings. Their gratitude was contagious, reminding us that true happiness isn’t about material wealth but about a heart full of faith.

Called to Be More Than Good – To Be Godly

The visit reminded us of an important lesson: we are not just called to be good but to be Godly. True service isn’t just about giving — it’s about walking in humility, love, and faith.

Seeing the congregation’s trust in God, despite their challenges, renewed our own commitment to serving not just with resources, but with compassion and purpose.

Meeting the Community: A Moment of Connection

After the uplifting church service, we had the opportunity to meet and interact with the congregation, including our beneficiaries and their families. The warm smiles, heartfelt conversations, and shared prayers created a deep sense of connection and purpose.

Each handshake and embrace reinforced why we do what we do – because empowering communities isn’t just about providing aid, it’s about standing with them in faith and support.

Leaving With Full Hearts

As we left, we felt a profound sense of fulfillment and joy. We had come expecting to witness gratitude, but in the end, it was shared with us. Their resilience and faith serve as a beautiful reminder that hope is never lost when we put our trust in God.

Join Us in Making a Difference

At PGIO, we are committed to:

✅ Empowering families through education and financial support

✅Supporting orphaned children with love and resources

✅ Providing hope to communities in need

Would you like to be part of this mission? Every donation, volunteer effort, and prayer makes a difference.

If you’d like to have a visual of the experience, head over to our Instagram handle @PROTECTAGIRL and be inspired as we were.

 

Contact us though our contact information here on the website, or through our DMs on our social media handles @protectagirl.

To our beneficiaries and their community — thank you. Your faith and gratitude continue to inspire us every day.

Better Late Than Never: Love That Lasts Beyond Valentine’s Day

We know, we know –Valentine’s Day was almost a week ago but who says love is only meant for February 14th?! While the day came and went and the world has already moved on from the roses and chocolates, we are here to remind you that love isn’t just a one-day celebration. The need for compassion, kindness and generosity is never bound by a date.

At PGIO, we believe love is about helping those in need, empowering families, and giving hope to the vulnerable. Love is about showing up, not just on February 14th, but every single day. So yes, we are late to the Valentine’s party — but when it comes to making a difference, it is never too late. 

Love That Lasts Beyond a Day

💖Feeding a hungry child isn’t just for one day; Hunger doesn’t have a calendar.

💖Helping a struggling family doesn’t expire at midnight; They need support all year round.

💖Helping families overcome poverty; financial struggles don’t disappear after February 14th.

💖Fighting for justice and safety doesn’t come with a deadline; every day is a chance to protect and support victims of abuse; stand up for the vulnerable.

💖Giving hope isn’t seasonal; love is commitment, not a moment.

💖Ensuring children receive education; because knowledge is a gift that lasts a lifetime.

While Valentine’s Day might be over, love in action never goes out of style.

It is Not Too Late to Show Love

💌Sponsor a child’s education – Learning last far beyond a single day; give a child the opportunity to build a brighter future.

💌Donate to help a struggling family – Kindness has no expiration date; your contribution can change lives long after Valentine’s Day.

💌Volunteer your time – Your time and skills can make a lasting impact; Love is about showing up, even if you are late!

💌Share this message – It is never too late to inspire someone else to do good; spread the word and help raise awareness!

So here’s 🥂 to belated Valentine’s love that actually makes a difference. Because when it comes to kindness, better late than never–always!

If you simply believe in love in action, remember: compassion has no deadline.

💝Join us in making LOVE a daily commitment . Donate, volunteer or share this message today!

Spreading Joy: How Our CEO’s Birthday Brought Smiles to Beneficiaries.

At Protect a Girl’s Image Organization, we believe that true celebrations go beyond cakes and candles. They are about giving back to the community, spreading love, kindness and hope. This year, our CEO chose to mark her milestone birthday in a special way- by celebrating with the less fortunate and making a real impact. Instead of a lavish party and a gala-like dinner, we spent the day empowering families, giving back, sharing gifts, and creating beautiful and unforgettable memories with the beneficiaries we serve. This initiative reflects our core mission: helping orphans, supporting struggling families, and providing relief to vulnerable communities.

This heartfelt celebration was not just about giving gifts but mostly about fostering a sense of belonging and reminding those in need that they are seen, valued and loved.

 A BIRTHDAY WITH A PURPOSE

Rather than making the day about personal festivities, our CEO saw it as an opportunity to reinforce our mission of uplifting communities. The event was held at Kangai; Kirinyaga, bringing together 70 beneficiaries, including orphaned children, struggling families, and individuals who have benefitted from our programs.

From the moment we arrived, the air was filled with excitement. Laughter, music and heartfelt conversations set the tone for a day of joy and impact. Staff members and the CEO’s immediate family joined in, making it a true celebration of unity and compassion.

One of the most touching moments was witnessing children running up to greet our team with smiles. Some even requested opportunities to recite poems and verses. These small gestures of gratitude reminded us of the deep connections formed through philanthropy and community service. Definitely reminded us why our mission matters!

GIFTS, SMILES AND UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the celebration was the distribution of gifts. Our team prepared clothing, food packages and shoes ensuring that every beneficiary received something meaningful. The joy on their faces as they unwrapped their gifts was truly priceless.

We also organized engaging activities:

  • Storytelling sessions – where children shared their dreams and aspirations. Hearing them talk about their future goals: becoming doctors, pilots and engineers, was incredibly inspiring.
  • Interactive Games – which encouraged teamwork, laughter and fun. We danced together and connected and some of the older beneficiaries even helped organize the activities, showing leadership and community spirit.
  • Inspiring speeches – by our CEO, her husband and children, emphasizing hope, resilience and the power of giving back.

As the day progressed, a shared meal including cake cutting brought everyone together. Seeing children and families enjoying a hearty meal, sharing stories and laughter, helped us see the true meaning of social impact- not just through donations, but by fostering a sense of togetherness. It was a beautiful reminder that simple gestures can make a world of difference.

A SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO

Speaking at the event, our CEO expressed deep gratitude for being able to celebrate in such a meaningful way.

“Birthdays are a time of reflection, and I couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate than by sharing this day with the people who inspire us everyday. Giving back is not just a responsibility-it’s a privilege. These moments remind us that kindness, no matter how small, has the power to transform lives.”

Her words resonated with everyone present, reinforcing the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable community development.

One of the mothers at the event expressed her gratitude, saying:

“PGIO has given my children a future. Today, they have school supplies, warm meals, and hope. I will never forget this kindness.”

WHY GIVING BACK MATTERS: THE POWER OF SOCIAL IMPACT

This celebration was more than just a birthday-it was a humanitarian outreach initiative; it highlighted how nonprofit organizations and compassionate individuals can create real change.

As we packed up at the end of the day, we reflected on an important lesson: kindness multiplies. When we uplift one person, we uplift entire communities.

It is in these shared experiences that we truly understand the power of human connection.

JOIN US IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

This celebration was made possible by the generosity of our supporters-volunteers, donors and well-wishers who believe in our mission. If you’d like to be part of such impactful initiatives, here’s how you can help:

  1. Donate- Your contributions help us reach more people in need.
  2. Volunteer- Join our team and experience the joy of giving firsthand.
  3. Share Our Story- Help us spread awareness and inspire more people to give back.

Visit our social media pages: @protectaGirl to learn more and support our work.

TOGETHER WE CAN TURN EVERY OCCASION INTO AN OPPORTUNITY TO UPLIFT LIVES. BECAUSE TRUE HAPPINESS COMES FROM MAKING A DIFFERENCE.

Teenage Pregnancy: Causes and Effects

Teenage pregnancy

Adolescent pregnancy is described as the purposeful or inadvertent pregnancy of females between the ages of 13 and 17 after engaging in sexual activities. Regardless of whether these youths intend to become pregnant, the general public frequently views them as self-centered, apathetic, and unethical.

These young women have not yet achieved adulthood, and there are many different reasons why adolescent pregnancies occur.

Peer pressure, lack of knowledge about reproduction, and early sexual activity are a few factors that may contribute to teenage pregnancy. Although some teenage pregnancies are planned, the majority are not, and they have a lot of unfavorable effects on the teen mother, the child, as well as other family members and classmates. Teenage moms frequently lack the means to care for a child and are unable to maintain healthy behaviors throughout pregnancy in order to deliver a healthy child.

These young women frequently drop out of school before finishing it, starting a vicious cycle that could result in their child being pregnant at an early age as well.

 

teen pregnancies in kenya causes and prevention

Causes of Teen Pregnancies

In certain cultures, early marriage and subsequent early pregnancies are a result of conventions and traditions. Pregnancy in these situations is permissible and almost always deliberate, yet they frequently occur in poor nations like India and Sub-Saharan Africa. But in wealthy nations, teenage pregnancies are mostly accidental and brought on by a variety of factors.

Drugs and Alcohol

Teenagers may frequently drink alcohol and use drugs at parties and other social events during adolescence with their pals. However, teens are unaware of the effects that drugs and alcohol have on their brains, particularly the consequences of binge drinking, which is the practice of ingesting enormous amounts of alcohol in a single sitting. Abuse of drugs and heavy drinking both increase the risk of unintended pregnancy. These chemicals significantly impair a teen’s capacity for rational thought and other cognitive functions, which raises the likelihood that they may engage in unprotected and risky sexual activity.

Low Socio-economic Status

Teenagers who become pregnant frequently come from low-income families. These youngsters frequently originate from impoverished households that lack the means to properly raise their children as they grow up. Due to the parents’ lack of commitment, these kids have poor educational ambitions and success rates as adults. These young children who were already predisposed to a bad environment lose motivation to perform in school and start forming relationships with teenagers who are going through comparable experiences. These teen populations are the ones who start to experiment with drugs and alcohol and perform poorly in school.

Low levels of familial connectivity are also related to low socioeconomic position. This means that the children and young people growing up in these families lack positive role models and mentors. Abuse is frequently common in these families with low socioeconomic positions, which puts kids at risk for dangerous situations. Adolescents are being cut off from their families, whether they are the victims of domestic abuse or witness it, which could result in bad decision-making. Adolescents who don’t feel connected to their families are more likely to turn to other disturbed youth who are going through the same things instead of confiding in the adults in their households.

These teenagers engage in unprotected and dangerous sexual behavior due to their lack of education and awareness about reproduction. These teenagers don’t research their alternatives or are aware of the various forms of contraception that are accessible. Even if teenagers have some sort of birth control, they are misusing it, rendering it ineffective when engaging in sexual activity. These teenagers simply have sexual relations at relatively young ages and may have several partners, which increases the likelihood of pregnancy.

Peer Pressure and Sexual Abuse

Another significant contributor to sexual assault is peer pressure, which frequently involves older male partners pressuring or coercing female partners into having sex. These young girls may feel compelled by fear to have unprotected intercourse without their consent.

In relationships, teenagers may experience peer pressure in a different way. They may feel pressured by their partner to engage in hazardous and unprotected sex in order to show their lover their “real sentiments” and “love.” In order to have unprotected intercourse and cause an unplanned pregnancy, the partner may manipulate the other.

Teenage pregnancy is also possible as a result of sexual abuse. Teen pregnancies later in life have been associated with early sexual abuse. Unfortunately, some kids have been sexually assaulted by adults—even family members—even before they reached puberty. Because they are afraid of being hurt by their predator, these young children frequently are unable to tell a reliable adult about the situation. These circumstances worsen the child’s effects as they approach puberty and raise the possibility of teen pregnancy.

Media Influence

Teen pregnancy is significantly influenced by the media, particularly programs like “Teen Mom” and “16 and Pregnant.” These programs frequently romanticize pregnancy and downplay its genuine challenges, which encourages these young women to get pregnant. Some adolescent girls get pregnant solely to enable them to drop out of high school or to compel their spouses to make a bigger commitment. Another factor contributing to some teen pregnancies is rebellion. A teen may choose to become a parent in order to demonstrate their independence and to feel like they have greater control over their lives. Through the advertising of these youngsters living more grownup lifestyles with greater responsibility and decision-making authority, these television glorify the concept of having a child.

Effects of Teenage Pregnancy

Mothers

Teen mothers who become pregnant while still, adolescents are much more likely to drop out of school due to their lack of motivation and commitment to completing their education. About 38% of female teenagers who give birth to a child before turning 18 finish high school by the time they are 22. This implies that a sizable portion of teen mothers won’t even complete high school, much less pursue post-secondary education. This results in these young females having jobs with extremely little pay or, worse still, unemployment since they lack the necessary skills for future employment.

Additionally, this results in subpar living conditions and the inability to keep their newborn child’s environment safe and clean. These young women frequently end up on welfare and are unable to provide for their children. In general, these young women are compelled to delay and cancel any future ambitions in order to raise their children.

Another problem with teen pregnancies is that the young mother frequently has to transition from one identity to another while taking on a parental role. These young moms experience a variety of bodily changes, such as those associated with puberty, as well as needing to adjust to how their bodies change throughout pregnancy and after giving birth.

Teenagers are frequently compelled to depend on their families for both financial support and emotional support while they struggle to raise a child. Teens who become pregnant may face rejection from their families and don’t even get any help from them since they don’t accept the pregnancy. In order to focus on their pregnancies, these young girls are frequently compelled to cut off communication with their friends and other members of their social circles.

Teenage mothers frequently lack the healthy habits necessary for a successful child-rearing process. Due to their increased health risks, these moms pose a threat to the development of their offspring. Young women are susceptible to conditions like anemia and high blood pressure, which can only occur during pregnancy. Because they are not properly informed about the process of raising children, these mothers frequently smoke and drink.

It genuinely interferes with the developmental tasks that should be happening during adolescence to have a child at these crucial years. These young mothers’ new status as expectant mothers prevents them from fully developing a sense of self. Teen years are primarily for forging relationships with others and coming to terms with oneself, and peer and social interactions are also stressed or even broken. Teen mothers may experience sadness as a result of all of these issues and feel cut off from their families and friends. The likelihood of the teen mother committing suicide rises as a result of these depressive symptoms.

To elaborate, teen mothers frequently struggle to find financial assistance and social support from their child’s father. The teen father will occasionally be present for the entire procedure, but occasionally he won’t. Due to the lack of available assistance, resources, and child care, there is frequently considerable relationship stress and discontent if the father stays in the picture. There is an increase in disagreement, which could result in separations, making the woman a single parent, or even physical assault. These young women frequently do not receive prenatal care or regular examinations for their growing child due to a lack of financial resources, thus they are unaware of any health issues for their child.

Many of these teen mothers are not in good health, which increases their risk of labor complications. In addition, these young women frequently have unsafe abortions, which result in the deaths of many young women and their unborn children.

Child

Due to the mother’s lack of resources, the kid of a teen mother is very likely to live in poverty. In many instances, the birth of this child effectively marks the start of an endless cycle. Many of the difficulties the mother faced as a child are likely to be faced by the child as well. For instance, it is possible that the child would grow up in very bad circumstances and in poverty. They most often lack a father figure, so they have fewer role models and are more prone to confide in other kids who are going through the same thing. These kids do not make much of an effort to succeed academically, thus compromising their chances of success.

Additionally, these children struggle socially and find it difficult to establish friends, which hinders the development of healthy relationships during an important period of adolescence. Poor relationship formation can be related to the child’s economic and educational deprivation. Due to a lack of parental involvement and supervision, the kids are more likely to drop out of high school and fall into drug and alcohol abuse. It is extremely likely that the cycle will continue to occur.

When compared to those born to adults, youngsters are frequently also more prone to have health concerns. They are probably mentally challenged and prone to behavioral problems. The children’s health will suffer from their anticipated underweight and preterm birth, which could potentially result in infant mortality.

Prevention and Support for Adolescent Parents

Teenage pregnancies are related to a number of unfavorable problems, but there are also some qualities that may make these teenagers more appropriate for parenthood.

Family and Peer Support

Having the support of their parents and continuing their social connections with their peers can help teen mothers become more resilient. Having those relationships throughout and after pregnancy, as well as all of that support, has a big impact on how a mother will act and adjust to her new role in life. Additionally, if the mother completes high school rather than dropping out, this is another protective factor that boosts teen mothers’ resilience. The support of the adolescent mother’s own mother is, by far, the most crucial element. The teen’s mother can be very supportive in terms of emotional support, financial assistance, and assisting her daughter with the newborn’s caregiving duties.

Education/Knowledge

It’s critical that kids and teenagers have a trustworthy adult they can confide in from an early age. Teen pregnancy is significantly less likely if you have an approachable, educated adult or role model in your life. Parents frequently forget to explain the human body’s anatomy to their kids, despite the fact that doing so and educating kids while they are still young greatly reduces the risk of teen pregnancy.

Both a healthy environment and a strong self-image are necessary for children to grow up. Parents’ unwavering love and support for their children is necessary to help them make better decisions about their future sexual behavior. Having parental affection means that these teenagers won’t feel unwelcome by parents who are incredibly passive and uninvolved.

Open communication and spending time with kids can help prevent teen pregnancies. Every time they need something, kids and teenagers should be able to go to their parents and ask for their help. Strong communication between a child and parent is essential. These youngsters make better selections regarding their sexual behavior and are more likely to use birth control or other forms of contraception.

 

Teen Drug Abuse: How To Tell Whether Your Kid Is Addicted To Drugs.

Teen drug abuse is much more common than most parents would like to believe. As children reach their teenage years, they become more likely to embark on a journey of self-discovery. This might involve experiences that involve experimenting with various drugs, from marijuana to cocaine.

While some kids are simply succumbing to peer pressure, others use drugs to self-medicate from stress and other painful emotions to better their mental health. Others turn to prescription drugs, to improve their performance at school.

As a parent, you want to keep a watchful eye on your children. Educate them about drug use, so they understand the consequences involved.

how to know your child is abusing drugs

Common Drugs Abused by Kids

As a parent, it’s important aware of the substances that teens are most likely to abuse. Commonly abused drugs include:

  • Alcohol
  • Marijuana
  • Prescription medications
  • Ecstasy
  • Cocaine

Many kids will become curious about drugs and will experiment with them. Others succumb to peer pressure and try alcohol or drugs to fit in. It’s vital that schools and parents talk to teens about various drugs, and warn them about the severity and potential consequences of alcohol or drug use. Awareness, education, and preventative measures may be the key to preventing teen drug and alcohol abuse.

Drug use among teenagers is much more common than most parents believe. Teen substance abuse statistics can be quite shocking to some parents. In fact, 86% of high schoolers know someone who smokes, drinks, or experiments with drugs even on school days. Abuse and addiction are not uncommon.

To get a further understanding of drug use among teens, take a look at the following teen drug abuse statistics:

  •    5.9% of 12th graders in a survey conducted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse used marijuana on a daily basis
  •     16.6% of 12th graders had been binge drinking, which involves drinking more than 5 beverages on one occasion
  •     27.8% of 12th graders had used e-cigs in the past year
  •     74.8% of 8th graders start off using e-cigs with only flavoring inside but eventually progress to ones with cannabis oil
  •     2.0% of 12th graders misuse prescription drugs, like Vicodin

According to statistics, illicit drug use among teens has started to drop. Fewer and fewer teens abuse heroin and methamphetamine. The studies also show that more and more teens try drugs and drink, as they progress through high school. Prescription drug abuse is also much more common than most parents would like to believe.

Of all the drugs involved, marijuana appears to be the most popular. 71% of surveyed teens did not view cannabis use as harmful although 64.7% would disapprove of smoking weed on a regular basis. Drug and alcohol abuse rates have been rising in these areas. By knowing these statistics, parents will have a better idea of the drug abuse warning symptoms to look out for.

Symptoms and Warning Signs of Teen Drug Abuse

While you may suspect that your kid is doing drugs, it’s not always easy to recognize drug abuse warning signs. Answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to the following symptoms and warning signs of drug addiction to get a better idea regarding whether your kid needs professional help via an addiction treatment program.

Tally up the amount of ‘yes’ answers you have to get a final score. Compare your final score with the results to get a better idea of the amount of influence that drugs and alcohol may have on your child. These warning signs may help you make a more informed decision.

  1. Has your child ever craved alcohol or drugs?
  2. Do you see a drop in school or home performance because of drug use or alcohol? This may include missing classes or having an unexplained drop in grades.
  3. Has your child started to hang out with new friends due to drugs or alcohol?
  4. Has your child started to isolate himself or herself because of drugs or alcohol?
  5. Do you feel that your child is neglecting his or her family and friends?
  6. Has your child lost friendships due to suspected drug use?
  7. Have you caught your child trying to hide drugs or alcohol from you?
  8. Has your child ever complained about withdrawal symptoms, like insomnia or headaches?
  9. Have you noticed your child engaging in reckless and risky behavior when on drugs or alcohol?
  10. Do you notice significant behavior changes, especially ones related to self-care and appearances?

You should get a final score between 0 and 10. Check out the results below to see whether your kid is addicted to alcohol and drugs or struggles with substance use disorders.

Quiz Results

0 Points

If you answered no to all questions, then you likely don’t have little to worry about. You might have noticed a bottle of beer or even found some marijuana in your kid’s room; however, it is unlikely that their drug use has become an addiction.

While one-time drug use will not lead to addiction, it may be the first step to addiction. It’s a good idea to sit down with your kid to look at the side effects and consequences involved with each drug.

1 to 3 Points

If you’ve answered yes to 1 to 3 questions, there’s a chance that your kid is addicted to drugs, or — at the very least — on the trajectory to addiction. He or she may be beginning to develop a dependence on various substances. Continuing drug use can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

It’s much easier to seek help now through various addiction treatment plans. The withdrawal symptoms tend to be minor, and there’s less of a chance of psychological dependence.

4 to 6 Points

If you’ve answered yes to 4 to 6 questions, your child may be struggling with moderate drug addiction. His or her use of narcotics may have elevated to abuse. Get your child checked out by a doctor to determine whether the drug use has caused any health issues.

7 to 10 Points

If you’ve answered yes to 7 to 10 questions, your child has likely developed a severe drug or alcohol addiction. There’s a good chance that they will experience withdrawal symptoms when getting sober. If they’ve developed psychological dependence, they may also be more likely to relapse.

The intensity of the withdrawal symptoms will depend on the drug they’ve been abusing, the length of drug use, and the dosage that they’ve taken. In most of these cases, a residential drug treatment program will be able to best offer the intimate care that’s needed.

Other Signs of a Drug Addiction

There are other physical signs and symptoms that may emerge depending on the type of drug that your child is abusing. Other signs of drug use and addiction include:

  • A change in appetite
  • Delayed reaction time
  • Paranoia and anxiety
  • Poor concentration and memory
  • Red eyes or a flushed appearance

Some types of drug use are easier to spot than others. For example, alcohol and marijuana use can be quite obvious.

 

What to Do If Your Kid Is Struggling with an Addiction

addiction treatment

If your kid is addicted to drugs, prepare to take action. Gather evidence to support your claims, and then stage an intervention. Discuss your concerns with your child, and educate them about the dangers involved with continuous teen drug abuse and use. Prolonged use can damage their physical and mental health.

Depending on the extent and severity of the withdrawals, quitting may be possible at home. Close parental supervision and discipline may be all that’s needed to stop drug and alcohol use for good.

If quitting results in the emergence of withdrawal symptoms, professional help, and addiction treatment may be necessary. Rehab will provide the resources and medical detox programs necessary to help your kid get sober. Substance abuse treatment can be incredibly effective.

 

Get Help for Your Kid as Soon as Possible

Teen addiction statistics have been on the rise for substances like marijuana and alcohol. It’s important to realize that your kids can be susceptible to addictions and alcohol and drug use. If you notice changes in his or her behavior and appearance, pay attention to their actions to get a feel for their drug use and health.

In the event that they have been abusing various substances, don’t hesitate to speak to one of our counselors to determine whether there’s an abuse treatment that will suit his or her needs. It’s better to contact us sooner rather than later. We can help work you through the various options that are available, and even assess your child’s condition and situation to determine whether he or she would benefit from rehab.