Routine Checkup, Teens: Care Instructions
Being a teen can be exciting and tough. Some teens feel the effects of stress, such as headaches or an upset stomach. Reaching out to others for support and taking care of your health can help.
Doing fun things can lower stress. Try listening to music, drawing, or writing in a journal. You could also hang out with friends.
If you're feeling a lot of stress, anxiety, or sadness, try talking to a counsellor. They can help you find ways to feel better.
Exercise most days. You could do things like dance, ride a bike, or play a sport.
Limit your screen time. This includes smartphones, video games, and computers.
Be careful online. Avoid sharing personal information, like your phone number, address, or photo.
Eat healthy foods, and drink water when you're thirsty. Add fruits and vegetables to meals and snacks. Limit soda pop and energy drinks.
Get enough sleep. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night.
Go to a trusted adult with questions about sex. Not having sex is the safest way to prevent pregnancy and STIs (sexually transmitted infections). If you have sex, use condoms and birth control.
Say "No thanks" to vapes, tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor.
Think about safety if you're around guns. Guns should always be stored locked up, unloaded, with ammunition locked up away from the guns.
Get help if you're thinking about suicide or self-harm. Call Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868. Go to the Kids Help Phone website at https://kidshelpphone.ca for more information.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Current as of: October 24, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
