Top Health Concerns for Teenagers: A Pediatrician’s Guide to Adolescent Wellness

When your children become teenagers, your set of worries changes. No longer are you concerned about them falling down or sleeping through the night. Instead, you might worry about who they’re spending time with, if they’re driving safely, or experimenting with things they shouldn’t be.

Your goal is to raise your children to be independent of you, but as they develop that independence,  you never stop being concerned about their well-being. At Sima Stein, MD, in San Jose, California, board-certified pediatrician Dr. Sima Stein can help guide you through those bumpy adolescent years. Here, she shares the top three health concerns for teenagers and how to manage those concerns. 

Mental health

You’ve probably heard about the surge in adolescent mental health issues over the last decade. The rate of teenagers with a major depressive episode surged 150% from 2011 to 2021. However, even before the pandemic hit, rates of anxiety were already skyrocketing to alarming rates, rising 32% from 2016 to 2019.

At Sima Stein, MD, we’re aware of the many mental health issues facing teenagers. We set aside time at each visit, starting at age 12 or 13, to speak with your teen alone. Dr. Stein can spot red flags that may indicate your child has behavioral health needs, and she can make helpful recommendations. 

Nutrition and body image

Remember when you had control over your child's meals and snacks? As they get older and hungrier, you forfeit that control. It's vital to promote positive body messages and nutrition guidance without body or food shaming. About 20% of teens are obese, and out of the vast majority of high schoolers, 87%, don't get the USDA-recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. It's essential to provide support, guidance, and education for nutrition and body image. Dr. Stein can offer nutrition counseling or refer them to a specialist. 

Sexual health

Talking about sex with your teen may be uncomfortable, but it's necessary. It's also essential to start the sexual health conversation early rather than later. Let your child know it's ok to talk to you and ask questions. Teens are at a higher risk than adults of contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Dr. Stein offers a judgment-free environment for STD testing and treatment, birth control discussions, and sexual education information. 

If you have concerns about your adolescent, or if you're ready to schedule an annual wellness exam for your teen, call Sima Stein, MD, to make an appointment or request one online by clicking here.