20+
Years of weekly columns
Weekly Column · Observer-Reporter · Since 2005
Ask Mary Jo
A weekly column by Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski, published in the Observer-Reporter since 2005. Real questions. Honest answers. For teens and the people who care about them.
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Recent Columns
This Week in Ask Mary Jo
Browse the latest columns from Dr. Mary Jo Podgurski, published weekly in the Observer-Reporter.
Education & Life Decisions
Weighing the College Decision
Dr. Mary Jo explores the complex, deeply personal decision of whether college is the right path — offering thoughtful guidance for teens, parents, and educators navigating this important crossroads.
Community & Readers
Adult Readers Share Comments & Questions
Dr. Mary Jo shares heartfelt reader responses to last week's Teen Center column, plus answers two questions from adults about adolescents — on choosing a school district and navigating a moody 13-year-old.
Mental Health
Set Healthy Boundaries to Find Peace
Dr. Mary Jo explores how setting healthy boundaries is an act of self-respect and compassion — for teens and adults alike — and offers practical guidance for establishing limits that protect well-being.
Character & Values
Choosing Kindness Wins the Day
Dr. Mary Jo reflects on the power of choosing kindness in everyday interactions, sharing stories and strategies for teens and adults navigating a world that can feel unkind.
Education
Finding Your Way in High School
Navigating high school can feel overwhelming. Dr. Mary Jo offers compassionate advice for teens finding their footing academically, socially, and emotionally.
Health & Wellness
Teens Examine Food Additives
Teens at Common Ground Teen Center take a close look at food additives and what they mean for health. Dr. Mary Jo guides the conversation with facts and encouragement for mindful choices.
Health & Wellness
How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?
Dr. Mary Jo tackles one of the most common questions from parents and teens: how much screen time is healthy, and how can families find balance in a digital world?
Relationships
Understanding Teen Friendships
Friendships during adolescence are intense, complicated, and crucial. Dr. Mary Jo helps teens and parents understand the dynamics of teen friendships and how to navigate conflict with grace.
Mental Health
Talking About Anxiety With Teens
Anxiety is one of the most common challenges facing young people today. Dr. Mary Jo offers compassionate, practical guidance for teens and the adults who support them.
Community
Why Teen Centers Matter
Dr. Mary Jo makes the case for safe, supportive spaces for teens — and shares what makes Common Ground Teen Center a model for communities everywhere.
Education
Back to School Confidence
A new school year brings new opportunities — and new anxieties. Dr. Mary Jo shares strategies for building confidence and resilience as teens head back to school.
Relationships
Navigating Family Conflict
Family conflict is a normal part of life, but it doesn't have to be destructive. Dr. Mary Jo offers tools for teens and parents to communicate with respect and empathy.
Health & Wellness
Sleep and the Teen Brain
Why do teens need so much sleep — and why is it so hard for them to get it? Dr. Mary Jo explains the science and offers practical tips for better rest.
Character & Values
The Power of Gratitude
Gratitude is more than saying thank you. Dr. Mary Jo explores how cultivating a grateful mindset can transform a teen's outlook and strengthen relationships.
Mental Health
Recognizing Signs of Depression in Teens
Depression in teens can look different than in adults. Dr. Mary Jo helps parents and educators recognize the signs and take compassionate, effective action.
Community
Teens and Community Service
Giving back builds character, empathy, and purpose. Dr. Mary Jo shares how community service shapes teens into compassionate, engaged citizens.
About the Column
Ask Mary Jo has been a trusted resource for teens, parents, and educators since 2005. Dr. Podgurski answers real questions with compassion, honesty, and decades of experience as a nurse, educator, and advocate.
Visit the Full ArchiveAsk Mary Jo is published in the Observer-Reporter and shared through SW PA Teen Outreach. The featured selections above are recent topics from the ongoing column.
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