Teen Health
Dealing with teen health issues
The teenage years can be awkward, exhausting and troublesome for many families. Parents often have difficulty talking to their teenage sons and daughters, either because the parents do not know how to speak to their nearly-grown-up offspring or because their kids are uncommunicative – or in some cases, both.
Because of this, dealing with any teen health issue that may arise during this time can be complicated. But while getting teen health information through to kids can be tough, it is especially important during this time that they be made aware of specific health concerns.
Teen Health Issues
Weight control is an important teen health issue. These days, teenage obesity is a growing problem. Parents of a teenager with this problem should not lecture or enforce diets; instead, they should encourage the teen to visit a nutritionist. A nutritionist can help the teen learn teen-friendly eating habits that still allow room for common foods and treats.
On the flip side of the obesity coin, some teens suffer from eating disorders. Anorexia and bulimia are the most common. Parents of teens who are losing too much weight should take their teens to a medical doctor and to a teen mental health counselor for assistance. Teens need counseling in order to recover from diet disorders.
Sex and Drugs
No parent wants to learn that their teen is using drugs or having sex, but the reality is that many teens are doing one or the other – or both.
Parents who find out that their teen has been sexually active must speak with their teen. Lectures are not usually productive, nor is yelling – instead, parents should become information providers. Teens need to learn about birth control, and parents need to be open to the idea of their children using it. Parents should also tell teens about their own feelings and attitudes toward sex, as this can open a trusting dialogue.
As for using drugs, symptoms include a change in mood, problems with physical health and emotional teen problems. Many teens begin trying drugs to fulfill some type of emotional need they have inside. When discussing drugs, teens will often deny that they are users. Parents may need to eventually send teens to a counselor or a detox center to get proper help.