Charlie Blue Brahm, MA
Arianna de la Mancha
September 30, 2025
The countdown is on for #HealthyTeen25! With the major changes and challenges our field is facing, this conference comes as a much-needed opportunity for connecting with each other and reconnecting with the heart of our work.
So, how can you prepare to make the most of it while taking care of yourself? Below, we share tips from our staff to help you feel present and grounded during #HealthyTeen25, whether it’s your first time attending or your tenth.
Ask for What You Need
One of the best things about being in a space full of sex educators? It’s literally our job to answer questions graciously. So don’t be shy about asking for help or directions. Healthy Teen Network staff (wearing the peach badges) are happy to help you out, or help you find someone who can. If it’s your first time attending our conference, asking other attendees who have been before can also be an informative way to connect.
Prioritize, and Pace Yourself
Let’s be real: You might not make it to every session you saved in your schedule. You won’t get to meet every interesting attendee (there are literally hundreds of us). That’s okay.
Taking time in advance to reflect on your intentions for the conference and check out the schedule will help you prioritize. You can add to your schedule any sessions that are most relevant for you and your work.
Our staff has learned from past conferences that taking breaks is non-negotiable. Step outside for fresh air. Go back to your room for 10 quiet minutes. Even if you’re the most extroverted educator out there, being “on” all day can be draining.
Whether you’re presenting, exhibiting, or attending sessions, you’re showing up in a big way just by being here. Give yourself grace to slow down, take a break, or say “not tonight” to evening plans.
Practical Outfits Are Key (Bonus Points If They’re Fun, Too)
Wearing something comfortable will help make sure you’re focused on content and connections, not your clothes.
Repeat after us: this is not the weekend to try new shoes, no matter how stylish. Whether you’re dashing between workshops, standing at an exhibit table, or dancing it out at our networking reception, your feet will be working overtime.
Additionally, bringing breathable layers will help you adjust to the sunny Atlanta streets, which can get up into the mid 80s in early October, as well as notoriously chilly hotel conference spaces. Did we mention that our conference t-shirts are a great base layer? Be sure to stop by and grab a fabulous In Solidarity t-shirt for $25 (cashless payments only).
That said, if fashion is your thing, bring it! Our staff has seen (and sported) some incredible outfits over the years. There’s space for all kinds of expression here.
The #HealthyTeen25 App Will Be Your Bestie
One of the best ways to set yourself up for a smooth, stress-free conference is by downloading and using the conference app! It’s free to use, and you can download it in advance by searching for “HealthyTeen25” in the app store. Instead of juggling printed schedules or searching for information, the app puts everything in one place—your sessions, your connections, and real-time updates.
With the conference app, you’ll be able to…
- Plan ahead. Browse sessions and activities, then add them to your personal schedule to map out each day in advance. Take this opportunity to plan breaks in between sessions or visits to exhibit tables.
- Find answers fast. Our handy FAQ section is built right in—and if you still need help, our team will be available at the registration desk.
- Build connections. Invite and chat with members in your contact list to spark conversations that go beyond the conference. There are chat features along with a QR scanner that allows you to view someone’s contact profile.
- Stay in the loop. The activity feed or “What’s Hot” keeps you updated on what’s happening in real time—and lets you share posts about what inspires you. Keep an eye out here for activity reminders in case you might’ve missed something in the schedule.
We’ve developed the conference app to support YOU and your experience. Our goal is to make it easier for you to plan ahead, stay informed, and focus on what really matters: learning, networking, and making the most of your time at the conference.
In short: We’re all in this together, and we can’t wait to learn alongside you.
See you in Atlanta! 💜
