By Laura Bijnsdorp*Names are changed to protect the privacy of the individuals interviewed. Everyone has feelings of anxiety at some point in their life. Feeling anxious about certain events is … Read more
Fourteen and diagnosed with extreme social anxiety
Everyone needs someone they can rely on
Support, consistency and understanding. That is what children in foster care need most, says James Brooks, who grew up in a foster home. His advice: avoid that children have to … Read more
Teens sharing the mental imprint left by a hurricane
The book Hurricanes and Rainbows comprises a series of stories written by teenagers on Sint Maarten. The project, initiated by psychologist Caroline van Oost and the White and Yellow Cross … Read more
Personal Story: who is going to believe you?
“I washed the sheets,” was the line I remember hearing when I first started to suspect that my ex-husband was sexually abusing my daughter. “I am going to kill you,” … Read more
I have to keep pushing for my children
Despite the abuse Celia and her children experienced from her husband, for a long time she was unable to leave him. After nine years, she escaped to the Crisis Shelter … Read more
The power of grandma’s love and support
Column by Aisaiah Nunes My grandmother’s kindness and support have been a constant source of strength for me. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Growing up in … Read more
A teen mom’s resilience and growth
When Allia was 14 years old, she felt she might be pregnant. She initially pushed away that feeling, hoping it was not true. When she finally took a test, she … Read more
Neglect can lead to abuse
Alex, a child with disabilities, was sexually abused at school twice. Neither the school nor police intervened. Her parents are warning professionals working with differently-abled children to always be mindful. … Read more
‘Seek the help you need’
Afraid that her son would ruin his chances in life, Carmen lost her temper. Her children were put under protective custody. She is now working hard to get them back.