Teens today have it tough. They’re pressured to become better adults, but they’re also told to enjoy their childhood. They don’t know where they belong, and finding a balance is hard.
This pressure can manifest itself in all sorts of ways. Some teens may need to dress a certain way or have the latest and most expensive gadgets. Others may need to act tough or extraordinary or engage in risky behaviors to fit in.
These risky behaviors are some of the reasons why most teenagers end up in the hospital. Find out the common reasons they end up needing medical care and what you can do to prevent it.
Accidents
Picture this. Your teenage son is riding his skateboard, not paying attention to where he’s going. As a result, he doesn’t see the rock in his path and trips, falling headfirst onto the pavement. He sustains a concussion and is rushed to the hospital.
This scenario is not uncommon. Teens are likelier to be involved in an accident than any other age group. It’s also one of the main reasons they visit the dentist.
A few physical accidents here and there can knock off a few teeth, and some of them require replacing. Physical accidents are one of the main reasons why teenagers aged as early as 17 get tooth implants. It has become a necessary dental procedure for those who have practically lost their permanent teeth because of risky teenage behavior.
Teens are more likely to be in accidents for several reasons. For one, they’re still growing, and their bodies are not yet fully developed. This means that their coordination and balance are not as good as adults. They’re also more likely to take risks and engage in risky behaviors.
To prevent your teenager from being involved in a physical accident such as the one mentioned above, you need to talk to them about the dangers of taking risks. Explain to them that their bodies are not yet fully developed and that they’re more likely to get hurt if they engage in risky behaviors.
You should also set rules and boundaries, such as not allowing them to skateboard in the street or ride their bike without a helmet. Finally, and most importantly, you need to lead by example. If you want your teenager to be safe, you need to be safe too.
Mental Health Issues
It’s not just physical accidents that can land a teenager in the hospital. Mental health issues are also common among this age group.
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders among teenagers. It’s estimated that about 3% of children and teens have been diagnosed with depression, and many more live undiagnosed.
Teens with depression may feel hopeless, worthless, and helpless. As a result, they may lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, withdraw from friends and family, and have difficulty concentrating or making decisions. They may also change their eating and sleeping patterns and may engage in risky behaviors.
Left untreated, depression can lead to severe consequences, such as self-harm, substance abuse, and even suicide. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among teenagers.
If you’re worried your teenager may be depressed, it’s essential to talk to them about it. Let them know you’re there for them and want to help. You should also encourage them to see a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is another common reason why teenagers end up in the hospital. Teens may use drugs or alcohol to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, or other problems. They may also use substances to fit in with peers or to feel more grown-up.
Whatever the reason, substance abuse can lead to severe consequences. For example, teens who abuse drugs or alcohol are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex and driving under the influence. They’re also more likely to suffer from academic problems, legal trouble, and mental health issues.
Substance abuse can also lead to physical consequences, such as liver damage, brain damage, and overdoses. In addition, drug overdoses are one of the leading causes of death.
To prevent your teenager from abusing drugs or alcohol, you must talk to them about the risks. Explain to them that substance abuse can lead to serious health problems. You should also set rules and boundaries, such as not allowing them to use drugs or drink alcohol. Finally, and most importantly, you need to be a good role model. If you don’t want your teenager to abuse drugs or alcohol, you shouldn’t.
Teenagers visit the hospital for various reasons, some of which are preventable. By talking to your teenager about mental health, the dangers of taking risks, and setting rules and boundaries, you should be able to prevent most of these things from happening.
