Teen Health

Teen Health Care Services

There are many challenges unique to adolescents. To them, it may seem as though their entire universe is in upheaval. And it’s true: at no other time in our lives do so many critical aspects of who we are undergo such significant changes. Your teen is changing physically, emotionally, and behaviorally and often isn’t properly prepared to deal with the pressures of adolescence in the best possible way.

Some of the biggest risks and concerns your teen may be facing include:

• Anxiety and depression
• Behavioral issues, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Bullying
• Difficulty managing moods and emotions, which can lead to fights, worry, and strained relations with family and friends
• Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia
• Learning disabilities like dyslexia
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Obesity
• Poor choices to fit in or as the result of peer pressure
• Risky behavior that can result in accidents, injuries, sexually transmitted diseases, and pregnancy
• Substance use and abuse (alcohol and drugs, including marijuana and opioids)
• Suicidal thoughts
• Tobacco use (smoking, chew) and vaping

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the leading causes of death among teens 15-19 years old are accidents, suicide, and homicide.

Teen Health and Wellness

It’s normal to worry about your teenager. But you can’t be with them every second of every day. So, it’s important that you and they understand the importance of making good choices to maintain good health.

The best time to ensure your teen’s health and safety is before issues appear. Regular visits to the family medicine providers at North Texas Family Medicine in Plano can ensure that any worrying trends are noticed early enough to be appropriately addressed.

Health care services we offer our teenage patients include:

• Preventive care, including immunizations such as Gardasil® for HPV
• Acne treatment
• Treatment for menstrual disorders
• Physicals for sports, school, or camps
• Screenings for medical conditions or emotional challenges specific to their age
• Education and guidance on health-related topics such as how to:
  • Make healthy choices
  • Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and drugs
  • Prevent pregnancy (discuss abstinence and birth control options)
  • Prevent STDs
  • Seek help for mental health disorders
  • Manage periods
  • Stay safe
  • Improve family relationships
  • Get proper nutrition on-the-go

The teen years can be a tumultuous time, for parents as well as adolescents. But there’s a way to ensure you and your family remain as healthy and happy as possible. Regular visits to your family doctor are a big part of that plan.

Make sure your teen is getting appropriate medical attention and health care. Regular visits to a family doctor can help identify potential issues early on, as well as arm your child with the information and tools needed to deal with the physical, emotional, and behavioral changes common at this age. Call North Texas Family Medicine at (972) 599-2567 to schedule a visit. You can also request an appointment now.