Welcome! We are so glad you’ve chosen to explore how to strengthen your relationships with young people. This section offers clear definitions of some key terms you’ll see throughout the site. Whether you’re a caregiver, an educator, or an advocate for youth, these shared definitions help ensure we have a common language as we learn together.
adolescence: The period between childhood and adulthood, typically defined as between 10 and 19.
BIPOC: Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
coping mechanism/coping strategy: A method for dealing with stress, difficult feelings, challenges, or changes. Coping mechanisms that support overall health and well-being might include spending time with friends, physical movement, being in nature, music, or creative expression. Some coping mechanisms can harm health and well-being, such as vaping and other substance use, excessive screen time, aggression, or self-harm.
ENDS: Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems are devices that deliver nicotine by heating a liquid to produce a chemical aerosol or vapor (rather than by burning tobacco) and include e-cigarettes, vape pens, mods, and other devices.
vapes/vaping: In this program, “vaping” or “vapes” refers specifically to the use of devices that contain nicotine and does not include devices used to consume THC (the active component in marijuana) or other substances. However, the principles and strategies shared in this training may also support young people in exploring a range of healthy coping strategies, including those that serve as alternatives to other forms of substance use.
LGBTQ+: An umbrella term that is used to describe a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity and stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, and more.
mental health: Refers to emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how individuals make and keep relationships, express feelings, make decisions, and manage the stresses, challenges, and joys of life. It is also deeply connected to physical health: mental health can affect physical health, and physical health can impact mental health.
modeling: Showing or demonstrating a behavior, skill, or way of thinking so that others can learn from it.
nicotine: A chemical found naturally in tobacco plants that is highly addictive and affects the brain and body.
protective factor: A strength, asset, or support that helps reduce risk and promotes well-being, especially during challenging times.
trusted adult: Someone a young person can rely on to create space for vulnerability, growth, and connection.
young person/young people: Describes people ages 11 to 24.
validation: Recognizing, accepting, and affirming someone’s thoughts, feelings, or experiences, whether or not you agree with them.
