Blog Archive | Playbl

March 24, 2026

The “Mute Button” Myth: Why Youth Self-Medicating with THC is a Hidden Crisis

Have you noticed a student or your own child reaching for a vape or an edible to “calm their nerves” or just “get through the day” ? It’s easy to dismiss this as a typical teenage phase or just a bit of peer pressure, but the science tells a different story. For many young […] More >

February 25, 2026

Parent’s Conversation Guide: Talking About THC

This guide is designed to help you navigate a conversation with your child after watching the video together. The goal is to move from judgment to curiosity, using proven therapeutic techniques to keep the dialogue open and honest. Before You Start The Setting: Choose a neutral time (like a car ride or […] More >

January 26, 2026

Do Phone Bans Actually Work?

A lot of schools are moving toward phone bans, and the data is starting to show impact. It’s not just about “behavior”—it’s about brain power. A 2025 study by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) analyzed districts in Florida after the state implemented a “bell-to-bell” ban in 2023. •Academic gains come slowly. […] More >

December 17, 2025

Youth Vaping: What School and Community Leaders Need to Know

Youth vaping remains one of the most urgent—and often misunderstood—public health challenges facing schools and communities today. While awareness has grown, many educators, health leaders, and community organizations are still navigating how to respond effectively, often without consistent, actionable data to guide decisions. More >

November 19, 2025

Beyond the Buzz: What Happens When Someone “Greens Out” on THC

When too much THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is consumed too quickly, it can cause a person to feel acutely ill—a phenomenon commonly called "greening out." To understand this reaction, we need to look at how THC impacts three major systems: the brain, heart, and stomach. More >

October 22, 2025

Vaping: The Facts Your Teenager Isn’t Hearing (6 Questions You Need to Ask)

Before you start a conversation with your teen about vaping, it helps to understand what they’re facing—and how to approach it. This article shares the latest data, practical conversation tips, and real examples to help you talk so your teen will actually listen. More >

September 29, 2025

Beyond Suspension: Restorative Approaches to Address Student Vaping

School leaders across the country are facing a significant challenge: how to effectively address the widespread issue of student vaping without resorting to suspensions that can disrupt a student’s education and may not address the root of the problem. A growing number of districts are recognizing that a purely punitive approach is often ineffective and […] More >

August 28, 2025

Separating Youth Vaping Myths & Facts

There are many harmful effects and associated risks of youth vaping. One of the most important ways for students, families, clinicians and educators to collectively tackle the critical health challenges caused by youth vaping is through education and being able to separate the common myths from the truth. Complete this True/False quiz to test […] More >

July 29, 2025

Unpacking Nicotine Pouches: The “Tobacco-Free” Trap

When we talk about nicotine pouches, the first thing to understand is what they don’t contain: tobacco leaf. This distinction is crucial because it often leads to a dangerous misconception that these products are harmless. Nicotine, a highly addictive chemical, is naturally present in the tobacco plant. The plant also produces a host of other […] More >

June 25, 2025

Navigating Summer: Understanding and Preventing Youth Substance Use

Navigating Summer: Understanding and Preventing Youth Substance Use and Addictive Behaviors Get ready for summer with essential tips to help students navigate the upcoming break safely and responsibly. As we approach the end of the school year, it’s crucial to prepare students for the unique challenges ahead. From increased free time to new social environments, […] More >