Adolescence is supposed to be a time of growth, discovery, and change—but what if some changes raise unexpected concerns? Beneath the surface of this turbulent stage lies a range of challenges that often go unnoticed. So, what are some common health problems in adolescence—and how serious can they become? The answers may surprise you more than you think…
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What Are the Main Health Concerns for Teenagers?
During adolescence, teens face various health issues that can significantly affect their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Below are the main concerns at this stage:
| Mental health | Anxiety, depression, behavioral disorders; suicide is a significant cause of death. |
| Traffic accidents | Leading cause of death and disability among teens. |
| Violence | Includes bullying, dating violence, and other forms of interpersonal aggression. |
| Substance use | Involves alcohol, tobacco, and drug use, with physical and psychological consequences. |
| Sexual health | Risk of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). |
| Infectious diseases | Respiratory, gastrointestinal, and sexually transmitted infections. |
| Overweight and obesity | Result from poor diet and lack of physical activity, possibly leading to chronic diseases. |
| Skin problems | Acne is common due to hormonal changes. |
| Vision problems | Myopia is frequent during this period. |
| Musculoskeletal system | Includes scoliosis, kyphosis, and other orthopedic issues. |
| Chronic diseases | Type 1 diabetes, epilepsy, and lupus may first appear during adolescence. |
Addressing these issues with timely support promotes healthy development during this critical phase.
Acne and Skin Problems During Adolescence
Skin problems are especially common during adolescence due to hormonal changes that increase oil production and clog pores. Acne is one of the most frequent and emotionally distressing conditions at this stage.
Causes of Acne in Adolescence
| Hormonal changes | Boost oil production, clog pores |
| Genetics | Increases likelihood of developing acne |
| Stress | Triggers sebaceous glands |
Other Common Skin Issues
- Oily skin: Excess sebum makes skin appear shiny and prone to blemishes.
- Blackheads and whiteheads: Caused by buildup of oil and dead skin cells in pores.
- Rashes: May result from allergic reactions or cosmetic irritants.
These skin conditions can impact self-esteem, social life, and lead to anxiety. Teens benefit from clear guidance, emotional support, and medical attention when needed. Healthy skin supports a more confident and positive adolescence.
How Does Mental Health Affect Teenagers
Mental health plays a major role in the emotional, social, and academic development of teens. Issues like anxiety, depression, and stress are common and can alter behavior, confidence, and the ability to handle everyday challenges.
Anxiety
May cause insomnia, headaches, and digestive issues. Academic pressure, fear of failure, and social media use worsen symptoms.
Depression
Appears as ongoing sadness, irritability, or withdrawal. It affects motivation, school performance, and relationships. Untreated, it may lead to suicidal thoughts.
Stress
Too much stress disrupts focus, sleep, and mood. It often stems from family issues, peer pressure, or major changes like a global crisis. Without intervention, it can evolve into more serious emotional disorders.
Poor mental health can interfere with learning, relationships, and personal development. Family support, open communication, and timely professional care help prevent long-term consequences.
What are The Most Common Eating Disorders in Adolescence
Eating disorders are a major mental health concern during adolescence. The most common are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. These conditions affect both physical and emotional well-being and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Common Eating Disorders
| Anorexia nervosa | Extreme food restriction, intense fear of gaining weight |
| Bulimia nervosa | Binge eating followed by purging through vomiting or laxatives |
| Binge eating disorder | Uncontrolled overeating without compensatory behaviors |
These disorders can lead to metabolic imbalances, dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, and medical emergencies. Early detection, consistent family support, and professional treatment help with recovery.
How does Substance Abuse Affect Teenagers
Substance use in adolescence has serious effects on physical, mental, and social health. This stage, marked by identity formation and social pressure, can make teens more likely to take risks, including drug use.
Frequent or early drug use disrupts brain development and affects vital skills like:
- Memory
- Learning
- Decision-making
- Focus
- Problem-solving
It also increases the likelihood of unsafe behaviors such as unprotected sex, impaired driving, and exposure to violence.
Psychological and Neurological Effects
Long-term use may trigger serious mental disorders, including:
- Psychosis
- Schizophrenia
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia
These outcomes are often linked to early and repeated use of substances like marijuana, methamphetamines, and opioids.
Substance use can derail a teen’s future. Prevention starts with education, open family dialogue, and consistent emotional support.
Teenage sexuality: Risks and STI Prevention
Adolescence is a key period for developing a healthy sense of sexuality. Teens begin to explore intimate relationships and often have questions about their bodies, identities, and emotions. While most teens are not yet sexually active, it’s essential to provide clear information about anatomy, STIs, family planning, and respectful relationships.
Unplanned pregnancies and STIs remain major public health challenges. Even though most teens are aware of contraceptive methods, many don’t use them during their first sexual experience. Reasons include lack of preparation, misinformation, or even the desire to become pregnant.
Promoting sexual health means supporting overall well-being. Parents and caregivers should create safe spaces for teens to ask questions without fear or shame. Open conversations strengthen family bonds, help avoid risky situations, and give teens the tools to make informed choices.
Sources:
- Kanthi, E., & Johnson, M. A. (2021). Adolescence: An overview of health problems. Indian Journal of Continuing Nursing Education, 22(2), 148-163.
- Kim, Y., Richards, J. S., & Oldehinkel, A. J. (2022). Self-control, mental health problems, and family functioning in adolescence and young adulthood: between-person differences and within-person effects. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 51(6), 1181-1195.