PSB Real Teen Issues: Expanded Edition

Over a year ago, I wrote a blog post about real teen issues due to some concerns about the content on Prep School Blues. Some viewers brought up that some of these characters may not be the best role models: smoking cigarettes and marijuana, consuming alcohol, engaging in sexual behavior, etc. So just to put any younger viewers (and their parents) at ease, I should remind you all that teen soaps are just a fantasy. While certain problems may seem glamorous in fiction, lots of real life teens face discrimination, substance abuse and the consequences of sex every day.

Here's some resources for anyone facing problems like the characters in Prep School Blues, expanded to include additional information inspired by the later story lines on the show:

Jack has to deal with his homosexuality, something not always accepted in certain more repressive communities. If you are facing discrimination for being gay, you are not alone. The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network works to bring respect and tolerance to young people across America. And there are plenty of other resources such as The Gay Youth Corner and organizations like OutProud for LGBT youth.

Larsen abuses several substances on a regular basis including alcohol, tobacco and marijuana. While this may seem cool, drug use can be very dangerous, especially for young people who don't have all the facts. For more information, visit the National Institute on Drug Abuse for Teens and The Partership for Drug Free America.

Gabrielle enjoys the attentions of boys around school, but actually having sex is a serious business. One out of three girls who has unprotected sex will become pregnant, even if they only do it once. Planned Parenthood offers details on contraception and options for unwanted pregancy. All sexually active people run the risk of contracting many sexually transmitted diseases including HIV and AIDS. The Center of Disease Control and Prevention provides a wealth of information on these potentially deadly illnesses. If you think you or someone you know may be at risk for STDS, you can find a testing center near you through with the National HIV and STD Testing Resources.

Fareed's suicide attempt could have resulted in a terrible tragedy if he had succeeded. However, many teens do make this awful mistake every year. The Trevor Project offers a round-the-clock helpline for suicidal teens. You can learn more about the symptoms of depression at Suicide Awareness Voices of Education. Problems at home can make teens feel they have no where to turn. Every year thousands of children are abused by family members and so-called friends. The National Center for Victims of Crime has excellent information and resources for victims of abuse and those who want to help.

Some call Cecelia crazy, but mental illnesses are no laughing manner. Issues with mental health can be serious problems that people struggle with for years. The National Institute of Mental Health offers up to date news on research and outreach in this ever expanding field of medicine. Also, for those in the United States Mental Heath America provides a community based network dedicated to helping Americans live healthier lives, while the National Alliance on Mental Illness has easy-to-understand information about mental illnesses, mental health care, diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

Rachel is a driven and independent girl focused on her education. Dedication to academics can make a difference in anyone's future. Schools in the USA can help you find out what college is right for you, while College Board features tools to help you compete in the application process.

Anyone's teenage years can be a rough time and the best way to get through it is to be informed!