When your kid enters puberty, they experience a dramatic change in theirphysical, emotional, and cognitive health. They also face unique challenges and are at higher risk for certain physical and mental health problems, which emphasizes the importance of continuous medical support.
As a parent and caregiver, finding the right support for your adolescent health can also be a challenge for you, but it should not be. Let’s discuss the importance of adolescent health and where you, as a parent, can find support for your adolescent health in Tuckahoe, New York.
Importance of Adolescent Health
Technically, adolescence is the period that starts at the age of 12 in girls and 14 in boys. It is when your child establishes new relationships on their own, develops learning behavior and social skills, and undergoes significant physical, social, and psychological transitions that can establish a pattern of behavior. These behaviors can be healthy or unhealthy.
Unhealthy or risky behaviors in adolescents can lead to various health problems. They may start abusing harmful substances such as drugs, alcohol, and tobacco and experience sexual health problems such as sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancies. Nutrition and weight issues are also common in adolescents.
Additionally, children are also at high risk for developing mental health disorders in their adolescent years. According to the National Institute of mental health, approximately one out of every six American children have a mental health disorder, which makes estimated 5 million children. And if that was not enough, it is also estimated that in a given year, proximately 20% of US kids will be diagnosed with mental disorders. In teens, hormonal levels change dramatically, making it tough for you as a parent to know whether their behavior is due to a mental health disorder or if it is a consequence of a hormonal change.
All this makes it necessary for your child to receive ongoing medical care, especially from a trained and skilled expert like a pediatrician, even when transitioning into adolescence.
Pediatricians As the Right Support for Your Adolescents’ Health
Pediatricians are a valuable resource when it comes to finding the right support for your adolescent’s physical and mental health.
With extensive experience, training, and education, pediatricians can address various physical and mental concerns specific to adolescents. They can assess and manage their medical conditions, provide preventive care, screen them for developmental, emotional, and behavioral issues, and offer guidance on healthy habits.
A pediatrician is familiar with your adolescents’ medical history, development, and specific health concerns. Their deep understanding of your individuals’ unique needs allows them to provide more personalized and targeted care.
If needed, pediatricians can also refer your adolescent to appropriate healthcare providers such as nutritionists, mental health professionals, or other specialists. Acting as a central point of contact in your adolescent’s healthcare team, your child’s pediatrician can coordinate care and ensure that different aspects of your adolescent’s health are comprehensively and coordinated. They can also offer necessary guidance and support to parents or caregivers, including strategies to promote the health and well-being of adolescents and their families.
Adolescent Health in Tuckahoe, New York
If you are in search of a highly trained and skilled pediatrician who can help your adolescent transition into adulthood with positivity and purpose, visit us here at Village Pediatric Group. Our board-certified pediatrician team up with you and your adolescent to promote their health and wellness so that they grow into strong and healthy individuals. We also allow our patients to discuss things that bother them in a safe and nonjudgmental environment. Our pediatricians also offer parents and kids helpful and interesting information about healthy lifestyle habits, common diseases, mental health problems, and behavioral health problems.
If you would like to know more about the services our pediatricians provide for optimal adolescent health, schedule a consultationtoday by calling us at (914) 771-7070 or filling out our online appointment request form now.
