Y-H.U.G.S Healthy RELATIONSHIP program

Did you know according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) current data from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) highlights trends in unhealthy relationships and dating violence among youth, with a notable increase in incidents post-pandemic? In 2021, about 18% of high school girls reported experiencing sexual violence, and nearly 14% said they had been forced to have sex. For LGBQ+ students, the numbers were even higher, with 22% experiencing sexual violence, and 20% reporting being forced into sexual acts. These rates have shown an upward trend over the past decade, signaling a need for targeted interventions for both prevention and support. 

Y-H.U.G.S is a new healthy relationship program designed for youth (ages 10-19) in Washington, DC, and Prince George's County, MD. The Y-H.U.G.S empowers young people to build healthy relationships, prevent dating violence, and enhance impulse control, self-efficacy, resilience, and communication skills, emphasizing positive family formation and healthy sexual behaviors.  Y-H.U.G.S program includes 13 one-hour lessons focused on decision-making, communication skills, and safety in both sexual and general contexts. It can be offered in various settings, including schools, community organizations, faith-based groups, community centers, and social service agencies.