Sue Thotz, Director of Outreach at Common Sense Media, talks to Medicinal Media about AI companions, teen loneliness, and what it means to bring your true self to the tech before it tells you who you are.

AI companions are already embedded in teens' daily lives. But can a chatbot actually be a friend? Tammy Danan reports on what the research shows, what experts say, and what real connection offers that technology never can.

The mental health challenges facing foster youth are real and well-documented. And so is the difference that consistent, trauma-informed support can make.

If you’ve ever been scolded for doodling: You were right all along. Science is finally catching up.

Like a caterpillar, teens need the cocoon before they can emerge transformed. The space to become a new version is something everyone deserves, and everyone can protect.

Living with ADHD can mean many things are true. It can be chaos, clarity, and resilience, all wrapped together.

Friendship breakups hurt like love — sometimes worse.

Live performance reminds us of our shared humanity.

Smiling boosts health, connection, and authentic joy.

Movies can heal, connect, and inspire deep empathy

Students talk honestly and openly about depression, seeking help, values and tech, and more in our peer-to-peer support series

The surprising brain benefits of embracing true silence

Rebuilding meaning when it feels like there’s none

How art restoration efforts support healing for fire survivors in Los Angeles

Astrology offers structure, connection, and gentle self-reflection.

Our latest collaborators at Peace In Schools bring us mindful meditation in the classroom

Missing out could be the best thing on the menu

Balancing screens and schoolwork for student success.

Indigenous creators bridging ancestral wisdom with digital connection.

Rediscovering imagination with journal role-playing games