Public Health, Occupational Health and Epidemiology Conference

Adolescent and young adult health draws attention to the particular physical, mental, and social needs of those individuals aged between 10 and 24 years. These individuals experience dramatic physical transformations as well as intellectual, emotional, and social maturation and establishment of their identity; aspects that bear long-term implications for their overall health and well-being. Public health initiatives for adolescents and young adults seek to support preventive care, intervene in risky behaviors, and influence healthy lifestyle choices.

Mental health is also an integral part of adolescent and young adult wellbeing. Many mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, have their first onset during adolescence, thus requiring early intervention. Comprehensive access to mental health services counseling, peer support groups, and education exposes young persons to a set of tools for coping with emotional challenges and building resilience. The other key strategy for advancing youth mental health is the decrease in stigma associated with mental illness and greater openness of communication.

Preventive care combined with risk-reduction behavior forms the backbone of adolescent health programs. Adolescents are at a heightened risk for engaging in behavioral practices that have long-term health consequences, such as substance use, unsafe sexual behaviors, and inadequate nutrition. Public health programs focus on educating the young on how these behaviors will lead to outcomes, safe practices in order to reduce the risks involved, and lifestyle choices in healthy habits. Education on sexual and reproductive health is also included, providing the youth with information that would enable them to make informed decisions and gain the necessary health services.

Health education aimed at the young adult population encompasses personal responsibility and informed choices. Nutrition, physical activity, and chronic disease prevention programs promote healthy adolescent and young adult health habits in support of long-term health. Access to appropriate health care services also includes having screenings for preventable conditions and immunizations so diagnosis can be made earlier in case there are potential health problems.

Adolescent and young adult health initiatives constitute a crucial step in ensuring the smooth transition of youths into adulthood. Public initiatives do help sustain youths to grow into healthy, happy adults by promoting their mental well-being, reducing risk behaviors, and encouraging healthy choices.