Adolescent health : we have a long way to go

We would like to reflect on some of the health issues that impact on adolescents and young people. Though the majority of adolescents and young people experience very good mental and physical health (AIHW 2003) in comparison to other age groups, adolescence can be a period of high risk taking and habit forming behaviour, both of which can have long-term ramifications on health and wellbeing. During adolescence, health behaviours and patterns are set, and thus many health problems that will cause problems in later life are established (NSW Health 1999). Significant numbers of adolescents and young people are affected by difficulties including mental health issues, alcohol abuse, suicidal ideation or behaviour, behavioural problems, unintended pregnancy, substance misuse, eating disorders and obesity, infectious diseases, decreasing physical activity, disability and injury resulting from motor vehicle accidents, and increased risks of skin cancers arising from lack of sun protection. These difficulties can affect all aspects of life and can place young people at risk of considerable life adversity with ramifications for years to come (Jackson & Mannix 2003).