Between teachers at school, friends and peers, media exposure and their healthcare provider, today's youth are bombarded with messages about their health. And, often times, these messages are factually inaccurate, incomplete or conflict one another. These Conversation Starters provide a way to begin conversations with youth in a way that is simple and straightforward.

We know that today’s youth are tomorrow’s adults. But we may not recognize that they are currently forming relationship norms for the future. The prevalence of cyber bullying and teen dating violence is climbing at bewildering rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in four adolescents report verbal, physical, emotional or sexual abuse from a dating partner each year.

Delaying Parenthood

Teens should understand it is okay not to have sex. In fact, abstinence is a great idea, especially if they want to avoid pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).  Of course there are all kinds of birth control methods that - when used carefully, correctly and consistently - can reduce the risk of pregnancy and decrease the risk of STIs.

What is HIV?

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV attacks the body's immune system which fights against infections. A person who has HIV can feel healthy for many years; they do not know they have HIV unless they get a special blood test.