“Mothers play a critical role in the family, which is a powerful force for social cohesion and integration. In essence, the mother-child relationship is vital for the healthy development of children and in their journey to independence."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Vaping is quickly becoming an epidemic due to the ease of accessing and hiding vapes. This trendy, but risk-taking activity, is causing significant peer pressure and there is mounting evidence that long-term repeated use of e-cigarettes will cause lung injury and respiratory symptoms."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Consent must be mutual and freely given. An informed decision made without pressure, guilt or threats. There must a clear understanding of what is about to happen. Without consent, sexual activity is an offence and against the law, and it must be given every single time."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“The transition from primary to secondary school is a significant time of change. It comes with a number of mixed feelings. So much is changing and they’re about to start a whole new set of subjects, meet new people, create new friendships and take on new challenges."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“A formula in dealing with adolescents is force equals resistance. Sometimes it just isn’t possible to stop them doing whatever it is they want to do. Regardless of everything, all you want is for them to come home safe, so start the conversation today!"

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Children who spend more time with their fathers during adolescence, usually have better social skills and a higher self-worth than those who do not. Fathers need to get in there and be involved, even if they get pushed away. Being persistent and present is important."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“The Coronavirus has turned our lives upside down and asked us all to navigate a ton of uncertainty about what happens next. These changes are confronting, creating a perfect storm for a rise in anxiety, depression and substance abuse problems amongst young people."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Some young people remain in denial as to the seriousness of the situation, but the truth is, Coronavirus continues to present a risk to the whole community. There’s a concern that many young people think it is business as usual."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Research shows there are specific risk factors that increase the likelihood of teenagers developing a mental health problem. Some are set in stone, and others are modifiable. It can impact their ability to function and perform normal activities."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Disappointment is a normal, though difficult, part of growing up and can be a tricky emotion to deal with at any age. How your children learn to respond to disappointment will determine its impact on their future achievement and happiness.”

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

“Parents shouldn’t avoid talking about the coronavirus. Not talking about something can actually make young people worry more. Take the opportunity to convey the facts and set the emotional tone. Help your children feel informed and reassured.”

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

"It’s no secret that the end of school can be a huge source of anxiety for both students and parents alike. Final year students suffer from high-level anxiety or stress, with many also suffering from depression."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

"Starting at a new school is a big deal! Your child is going to meet lots of new people and be thrown into new situations. That’s bound to make them feel lots of different emotions."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

"Studies show an increase in mental health problems among survivors immediately after a major disaster. Children especially are vulnerable to experiencing feelings of loss of safety, fear or apprehension following exposure to images seen on TV, the internet or in newspapers."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

"Some psychologists worry that fears around the projected impacts of climate change may lead to a learned helplessness or hopelessness. ‘Eco-anxiety’ has begun to emerge in pre-schoolers, primary and secondary students."

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg