Happy New Year! This month, the “Take Charge of Your Health Today” page focuses on research being done in our local area about the positive health outcomes of social support and connections. Jennifer R. Jones, MPH, CTSI community engagement senior coordinator, and Esther L. Bush, president and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh, discussed this topic.
JJ: Good afternoon, Ms. Bush. Happy 2018! Can you believe that this year celebrates seven years of the “Take Charge” page feature and our interviews?
EB: Time goes so fast, Jennifer! We’ve covered many health and research topics throughout the years. The kick-off to a new year motivates many people to make resolutions or changes in their lifestyle or behavior. Some people may want to quit smoking, organize their closet or spend more quality time with loved ones. Some people may want to eat healthier, spend more time outside, exercise more or watch their budget and save money. The list could be endless!
JJ: That’s exactly right, Esther. I have personal goals to do many of the things you just listed. Our January page focuses on social support. To accomplish goals and resolutions, we need other people. Research shows that social support can have positive outcomes. As Dr. Ana Radovic discusses, there are many types of support we can give to and get from others.
EB: I’m really glad Ana outlined the different types of support. I don’t think I’ve ever had it explained in that way. It makes me look at the song “Lean on Me” in a new way! Our December page was on cyberbullying, and I appreciate that the SOVA websites are safe places for adolescents and their parents to share their feelings and to learn more about depression and anxiety. The holidays, while joyous, are difficult times for many people.
JJ: I agree, Esther. The SOVA websites are one of many ways that those suffering can find a supportive community. We also worked this month with another expert on social connections. What is awesome about Dr. Alison Culyba’s research is that she is working with local Pittsburgh adolescents to understand what protects youths. Her work will look at the tangible pieces of social support and mentorship to design interventions that positively affect youths as they grow into adults.
EB: You always provide the most fascinating and new research. I’m so proud of this partnership and what we’ve all created together. I know that each month I learn something new or think about my health in a different way. This year we will continue to disseminate health and research to Courier readers.
JJ: Thank you, Esther, for your time and energy to make these pages empowering to readers. From all of us at the Urban League, CTSI, the University of Pittsburgh, UPMC Center for Engagement and Inclusion and the New Pittsburgh Courier, we thank you for reading this page. We wish you and your loved ones a happy and healthy new year. If anyone has questions or would like to suggest a health topic, please e-mail partners@hs.pitt.edu. Our team is more than willing to come to your organizations, schools and churches to answer questions and engage in meaningful conversations.
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