Adolescence is a critical period for the development of healthy lifestyle habits, and families play a key role in influencing the choices that adolescents make regarding food and exercise. Dr. Sarah Rashid, Consultant Community Medicine and Wellness in Charge at Primary Healthcare Corporation (PHCC)’s Rawdat Al Khail health center, emphasizes the importance of problem-solving, clear communication, and developing alternatives when it comes to promoting healthy behaviors in adolescents. Flexible behavior control within families is crucial for effective functioning and setting standards for behavior while allowing for some flexibility.
Factors that adolescents consider important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle include the influence of friendships, the use of mobile applications for health tracking, and the level of autonomy granted by parents in making food choices. Adolescence, which spans from ages 10 to 19, is a time of rapid physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth. It is a crucial period for laying the foundations of good health and creating opportunities for positive changes in lifestyle habits. Dr. Rashid highlights the challenges that young people face during adolescence, including identity formation, adapting to school and social expectations, and making decisions about their future.
Studies have shown that exposure to stressful situations during adolescence, such as school violence or cyberbullying, can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms and behaviors, such as increased consumption of harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol. Adolescents who experience school violence or cyberbullying may also have higher levels of anxiety and depression, as well as low self-esteem. Dr. Rashid emphasizes that the habits and behaviors acquired during adolescence can have long-lasting effects on future health and disease risk, as poor dietary choices and the development of chronic diseases during this period may persist into adulthood.
Promoting autonomy, clear communication, and problem-solving skills within families can help adolescents make healthier choices when it comes to food and exercise. Parents are encouraged to set standards for behavior while allowing for some flexibility to accommodate the unique needs and preferences of their adolescent children. Adolescence is a time of significant growth and change, both physically and emotionally, and providing support and guidance during this period can lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habits. By fostering a supportive and open environment within the family, parents can help their adolescent children navigate the challenges of adolescence and make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
