Parent Corner: Raising Happy, Healthy Teens
By Doina Stefan, M.D.
Cascade Valley Arlington Pediatrics Clinic
 Doina Stefan, M.D. Cascade Valley Arlington Pediatrics Clinic |
The teenage years are a transitional time, as teens develop from children into young adults. As a parent, it's important to be aware of your teens' physical and emotional changes and to help them through these years.
If Only I Were...
Our culture influences how teens feel about themselves and their bodies, and many teens compare themselves to celebrities. If teens believe they look different from others or just don't fit in, body image and self-esteem may be negatively affected.
Poor body image and low self-esteem can lead to serious problems, such as eating disorders and depression. According to the National Mental Health Information Center, 90% of those suffering from an eating disorder are girls and women between the ages of 12 and 25. Eating disorders can lead to physical problems, such as anemia, infertility, an increased risk of heart failure and emotional distress. Another common disorder for teens is depression. The Mayo Clinic reports almost one in 10 children is affected. This condition can lead to drug and alcohol abuse and other high-risk behavior.
As a parent, focus on your teens' positive qualities and accomplishments. Encourage your teens to pursue activities that they enjoy and to form healthy relationships with friends and family. Most important, support open communication with your teens and seek counseling if you feel professional help is necessary.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
Acne is another issue your teenager may "face." It occurs when oil glands in the skin become overactcive, usually resulting from the onset of puberty and new hormonal activity. People react differently to hormones, so some people experience more acne problems than others. Bacteria on the skin feed off this material. If the bacteria enter the pores, white blood cells rush to the site and a pimple is the result.
Washing the face and skin is essential because it helps keep dirt and bacteria out of pores. This is especially important after sports practice or working out. To fight acne, some teens use over-the-counter products, and others visit their doctor for advice. Regular exercise and a healthy diet may also help.
Some teens may perceive their acne as more of a problem than it is, given their heightened awareness of their body image.
All the Right Moves
Regular exercise has a host of benefits. Encourage your teens to play basketball with friends, help out around the yard or join school sports teams. Regular exercise can:
- Help teens feel good. Chemicals called endorphins are released during and after exercise, helping boost mood.
- Improve body image and self-esteem.
- help prevent the development of health conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
Good nutrition is especially important for growing bodies. Encourage your children to ehlp with grocery shopping and meal planning and to prepare meals that contain a variety of foods.
But Everybody's Doing It
Teens tend to experiment with drugs or alcohol because they are curious, want to fit in or want to feel older. Talk to your teens about how these behaviors could get them in serious trouble with the law (not to mention you) or even hurt or killed in a car accident. Encourage them to say no to peer pressure.
If your teens want to attend parties where alcohol might be available, suggest checking out a movie with some friends or going to a concert instead. Keeping the lines of communication open and providing alternate activities may convince your teens to steer clear of dangerous situations.
As a mother and a pediatrician, I encourage parents to begin the practice of open communication early in their child's life. It is also beneficial to support their interest in hobbies and sports.
The Right Path
The teen years can be difficult. Understanding what your teens face can help you lead them in the right direction and help them grow up to become happy, healthy adults.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. It should not replace a visit with your health care professional. Call your doctor if you need more information or have additional questions.