Teenagers face a variety of lifestyle changes as they enter high school and leave their childhood behind. Children at this age often feel as if they can take on adult issues, but they are still too immature to completely understand the implications of their actions. Weight issues, issues related to sex, and depression and suicide are issues that face many teenagers. Parents are encouraged to learn more in order to help their teen know the issues and make the right choices.
Sex
Sex can be one of the most confusing decisions that a teenager will make. Kids Health reports that parents are responsible for talking about sex with their teenager to make sure she knows what the implications of being sexually active are. Teenagers who are going to have sex must also be educated about birth control options. Many parents are uncomfortable with the idea of their teenager having sex, but they must take responsibility to seek out appropriate birth control options to ensure that their teenager does not face an unexpected pregnancy. Kids Health also emphasizes the importance of speaking with teens about the dangers of sexually transmitted diseases. Ensuring that teens have access to condoms will prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases while also preventing pregnancy, says Kids Health.
Depression And Suicide
The teenage years can bring a great deal of angst and confusion as children transition from being children and head towards adulthood. Kids Health reports that some sadness and mood swings are normal for teenagers, but a constant state of sadness and inability to approach life with happiness may signal depression. Ongoing depression can become a risk factor for suicide and Kids Health strongly recommends that if parents suspect that their teen is depressed that they seek out professional help immediately. Healthy Children reports that approximately 250,000 teenagers attempt to commit suicide each year, and that approximately 2100 of them are successful. These statistics emphasize the need to know your child and recognize symptoms of depression before it is too late.
Weight And Body Image
Body image is a particularly important issue to teenagers because they rely so heavily on their peer relationships and care deeply about what others think of them. Kids Health indicates that many teenagers are unsatisfied with the way they look because they are not able to live up to the standards that society has created regarding what is attractive. As teenagers find ways to fit in with their peers they will likely experiment with different hair styles, fashion statements and makeup techniques, says Kids Health. Parents are encouraged to allow their teen to seek out appropriate ways to boost self-image, including weight concerns. Providing access to a variety of healthy foods and encouraging teenagers to exercise will help with body image issues, says Kids Health. Parents can also help by saying positive things and building their child up. If problems persist, Kids Health recommends seeking out the help of a professional.
