December 2023
Teenagers: Answering the Top Three Questions Our Providers Get Asked Most Often
Welcome to our guide, where we address the three most frequently asked questions our providers receive! We always enjoy seeing our teens and pre-teens in the office for their well-checks, but we understand that questions often arise outside of these visits.
1: Why do providers want to meet with a teen on their own during their well check?
Teens may have sensitive questions about body changes they are noticing, drugs or sexual activities they or their friends are engaging in, bullying or mental health struggles they haven’t shared with anyone yet. Having time for a conversation with their provider that is confidential and allowing teens independence and privacy is an important part of development.
2: What is the purpose of a ‘well check’?
We can help remind you of healthy habits that may have dropped off during the year and ways to recharge and make changes to your current habits. We also treat acne, check in on mental health, and give clearance for sports when you need your sports physical filled out during the year. Getting to know your pediatrician over the years will increase your comfort and ability to ask questions as you get older and are taking charge more of your health.
3: What are some reliable resources for Teens?
AMAZE - Age appropriate puberty and sex education videos
All Birth Control Options | Types Of Birth Control | Learn More (bedsider.org)
Young Men's Health (youngmenshealthsite.org)
Understood - For learning and thinking differences
Marijuana | Young Men's Health (youngmenshealthsite.org)
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - Call. Text. Chat. (988lifeline.org)
Know the Risks: E-cigarettes & Young People | U.S. Surgeon General’s Report
Colorado Crisis Hotline:1-844-493-8255
Trevor Lifeline (for LQBTQIA+ youth): 1-866-488-7836
or Text “Trevor” to 1-202-304-1200