In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, the conversation focuses on teen dating violence, healthy relationship-building, and the impact social media can have on young relationships. Andrea Carroll, Adolescent Health Coordinator at Youth Services of Tulsa, joins Saralyn Miller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Clinical Trainer with the Child Abuse and Trauma Services (CATS) program at FCS, and Nakesha Johnson, Youth Care Coordinator with CATS, to discuss the warning signs and behaviors that can quietly normalize unhealthy relationships during adolescence.

Together, they explore how emotional abuse, digital monitoring, and codependency can show up as control in teen relationships, both in person and online. The episode also highlights the importance of prevention education and healthy boundary setting as guests share practical ways to support young people before harmful patterns become more serious.

Support and stay connected to us. First, be sure to hit that subscribe button wherever you're listening to us. Subscribing ensures you never miss an episode, and it's absolutely free. It also helps us continue bringing you quality content.

Consider leaving us a review. Your reviews not only make our day, but they also help others discover the podcast and join our community.

Share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone who might find it interesting. Word of mouth is a powerful way to grow our podcast family, and we truly appreciate your support.

We're always eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for future episodes. Visit www.okstateofmind.com for all of our episodes. You can also email us at communications@fcsok.org with any episode ideas or questions. We'd love to connect with you.

Thank you once again for accompanying us on the journey. Until next time!

In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, the conversation turns toward a modern influence that touches every age group: screen time and digital content. Jessica Wrest, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, joins Dr. Stevan Lahr, and Rachel Roberts, Public & Government Affairs Manager at Family & Children’s Services, to unpack how constant access to devices is shaping mental health, behavior, and emotional well-being. Together, they explore how screens are no longer just tools—but environments that influence how we think, feel, and cope.

The group examines how screen use triggers chemical responses in the brain, reinforcing habits that can mirror addictive patterns. They discuss how early exposure impacts children’s ability to self-soothe, regulate emotions, and build attention spans, while also acknowledging that adults face similar challenges through “doom scrolling,” sleep disruption, and reduced real-world connection. Rather than focusing solely on limiting screen time, the conversation shifts toward understanding the quality of content, the importance of balance, and how digital habits can either support or undermine mental health.

The episode also highlights practical, real-world strategies for navigating a screen-saturated culture. From creating intentional boundaries and improving sleep hygiene to modeling healthy behavior for children, the team emphasizes that change doesn’t require eliminating technology—it requires awareness and small, consistent adjustments. The conversation lands on a hopeful takeaway: when individuals and families become more intentional with their digital habits, they can protect their mental health while still benefiting from the connected world around them.

Support and stay connected to us. First, be sure to hit that subscribe button wherever you're listening to us. Subscribing ensures you never miss an episode, and it's absolutely free. It also helps us continue bringing you quality content.

Consider leaving us a review. Your reviews not only make our day, but they also help others discover the podcast and join our community.

Share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone who might find it interesting. Word of mouth is a powerful way to grow our podcast family, and we truly appreciate your support.

We're always eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for future episodes. Visit www.okstateofmind.com for all of our episodes. You can also email us at communications@fcsok.org with any episode ideas or questions. We'd love to connect with you.

Thank you once again for accompanying us on the journey. Until next time!

In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, the conversation centers on the mental health needs of older adults—one of the fastest-growing yet least visible populations in our communities. Eileen Bradshaw, President & CEO of Life Senior Services, joins Kaitlin Foster, Vice President of Adult Outpatient Services at FCS, and Tom Taylor, Chief Development Officer at FCS, to challenge common misconceptions about aging, isolation, and help-seeking.

Together, they explore why older adults are less likely to seek mental health care, how symptoms often show up physically instead of emotionally, and why grief, depression, and anxiety can compound after repeated life losses. The episode also highlights the critical role of caregivers, the emotional weight of retirement and identity shifts, and how community partnerships between Life Senior Services and FCS are helping seniors access support without fear or stigma.

Support and stay connected to us. First, be sure to hit that subscribe button wherever you're listening to us. Subscribing ensures you never miss an episode, and it's absolutely free. It also helps us continue bringing you quality content.

Consider leaving us a review. Your reviews not only make our day, but they also help others discover the podcast and join our community.

Share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone who might find it interesting. Word of mouth is a powerful way to grow our podcast family, and we truly appreciate your support.

We're always eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for future episodes. Visit www.okstateofmind.com for all of our episodes. You can also email us at communications@fcsok.org with any episode ideas or questions. We'd love to connect with you.

Thank you once again for accompanying us on the journey. Until next time!