|
|
Do you ever stop to think about it?We take it for granted, sometime we don't even give it a second thought….until we're feeling under the weather or having a few problems! Health seems invisible until it starts going wrong! You need to be aware of the issues that can affect your health and your life. |
Talking about health issues can be difficult because it's PERSONAL and we all know how it can feel when you have to talk to strangers or deal with really private things. Sometimes it can be really daunting even booking an appointment with doctor, never mind sitting and talking about your body, feelings or any other personal stuff. It can be as embarrassing as watching your Dad dance at a disco! This is why you need to find out about health information and get advice on who is the best and right person for you to speak to about any of you health issues or worries. This way, you will be more prepared and can feel more confident about dealing with uncomfortable situations!
Health information covers lots of different topics and you will start to see
that it is not straightforward. Many of the issues cross over with topics that
we have introduced in other articles. In other words, even problems you are
having with studying can affect you health if you are experiencing stress.
The first thing to think about is that health doesn't just mean physical issues.
Mental and emotional health is also very important. Mental health problems are
experienced by many people and often these people have been made to feel ashamed
or embarrassed. Now there is help and information available. It is important
to remember that many of us feel unhappy at times and that talking to someone
about how we are feeling can often help.
Some of the mental health related terms you might have heard of are depression,
stress, and more serious problems such as self-harm, anorexia, addictions or
schizophrenia. We will look at this area in more detail in future articles.
Other health issues might include sexual health including contraception, sexually
transmitted infections, relationships and so on. These all link to your own
health. This area in particular is often found to be quite difficult to ask
for advice on…..because it is so personal. However, sexual health information
can be extremely important in helping you to look after your physical and emot
ional health.
Other health issues you might already have an idea about include sun safety,
eczema, personal hygiene (looking out for bad breath and BO!), smoking and healthy
eating. These all help you to learn about keeping a healthy lifestyle. You might
think that all of this seems like something you don't need to worry about until
you reach your Aunty Betty's age and feel the urge to discuss every illness
you've had, at the top of your voice in the local post office….however, when
do you think most people start smoking, unhealthy eating, being offered drugs,
using deodorant, starting your periods and getting girlfriends and boyfriends?
I know it sounds like I'm joking…but seriously…you have to think carefully.
Any of the above health issues could affect you. You have to make your own choices
and sometimes we all make mistakes…..but DON'T make mistakes because you didn't
use the helpful information available.
In a future article we will also look at the National Health Service and related information. This may include seeing a doctor, using Accident and Emergency, prescriptions and so on. It's your service to, so make sure you know how to access it!
Like with other articles we can already see that there is so much to talk about
with this topic that we need more time. So watch out for future articles taking
some of the health issues discussed in more detail. Remember that there is lots
of information and advice available and you can access this through your Connexions
Adviser at school, college or your local centre. In relation to health issues,
we would recommend that you should speak to your GP / doctor regarding any urgent
or medical issues.
So good luck and be healthy and happy!
Jennie Glitherow
 |
|
 |
