What Parents Need to Know About Teen Health Risks.

Being the parent of a teen is almost as difficult as being a teen. The “Back-to-School Kit for Parents” gives parents a thorough look at the health risks faced by teenagers and helpful information on how to keep teens safe and healthy.

“Just because they’re no longer toddlers, parents shouldn’t think that ‘wellness visits’ to health care professionals are no longer necessary,” said Amy Niles, President and CEO of the National Women’s Health Resource Center (NWHRC). “In fact, teen health check-ups are an important way for parents and teens to learn about a variety of teen health issues, such as depression, obesity, drug abuse, and smoking, as well as learn when preventive health screenings, such as blood pressure and cholesterol testing should occur.”

The “Back-to-School Kit” provides a checklist for parents about the warning signs of depression and eating disorders, as well as tips to encourage teens to eat a balanced diet and get plenty of exercise, and make the most of their annual visit to a healthcare professional.

Parents also will appreciate the “New Trends in Teen Drug Abuse” section that discusses experimentation with and abuse of illicit drugs such as alcohol, ecstasy (MDMA), and methamphetamine; prescription pain relievers; inhalants; and over-the counter cough medicines containing dextromethorphan. An important component of the kit is “How to Raise Healthy, Drug-Free Teens,” a frank and informative question-and-answer article highlighting the views of leading experts in adolescent medicine.

“Parenting has never been more challenging,” said CHPA President Linda A. Suydam, D.P.A. “That is why this comprehensive material from NWHRC is so valuable, especially now as kids are starting a new school year full of new activities and friends. The ‘Back-to-School Kit’ helps parents navigate the at-times precarious terrain of providing guidance to teenagers, from recognizing eating disorders and medication abuse to encouraging positive behaviors and academic performance.”

For more information at http://www.healthywomen.org