Doctor’s Appointment In Adolescence – I’m A Mom
Medical consultation in adolescence requires continuous follow-up. Although it is a phase in which there is generally good health, there are situations related to behaviors that require attention and the provision of adequate information.
Medical consultation in adolescence
The spine, posture and other matters
A doctor’s appointment in adolescence can be an inexhaustible source of questions, since there are so many interests that arise at this stage that we could spend hours and hours talking with teenagers.
These are subjects to be addressed and, at times, also a reason for concern, from posture and changes in the spine to issues related to nutrition and concentration in studies.
What are the characteristics of teenagers?
As for health care, we should not forget that teenagers often have a feeling of invulnerability that makes them think that nothing bad can happen to them. So they postpone medical appointments except when they feel really sick.
Adolescence as a problem
It is not good to stigmatize and consider adolescence as a problem. In general, there is a significant number of adolescents and young people who study, work, respect the rules and are a source of creativity and positive transformations.
Adults play a decisive role when it comes to helping them, always remembering that we are their parents, teachers or counselors, not their friends. The choice of partner and profession, as well as the search for identity, are crucial elements.
Medical consultation in adolescence: once, twice or three times a year?
The recognized Scientific Societies in Adolescent Health in Spain, for example, recommend at least two appointments a year with a professional who has recognized experience in adolescent health.
It is important that professionals are specially trained so that they can ask open-ended questions that contribute to the adolescents’ sense of confidence.
Motivational interviewing is also an appropriate resource that, in the hands of experts, can contribute to achieving a better relationship that continues over time.
parents in consultation
Parents always play a key role. However, the way to accompany children must be different in childhood, adolescence and when they become young adults. Thus, both professionals and the family must contribute to the progressive development of autonomy.
Confidentiality in medical consultations in adolescence
Confidentiality means that the information shared in the consultation, in general, will only remain in this scope. However, it is important to clarify from the outset that, although there is the intention to protect your confidentiality, it can be ‘broken’ if there is any situation that puts the health of this adolescent or young person at risk .
In that case, with the consent of the teenager, this will be informed or the young person will be helped to share this information with the parents.
to keep in mind
When children enter adolescence, it is not uncommon to see and hear that parents must often stop caring for them. This could not be more wrong, since teenagers need parental attention and monitoring, but in a different way: helping them so that they can develop as autonomous beings.
Conclusion
Adolescence is an inspiring phase that includes positive transformations. And, in this sense, the support given by adults can generate substantial changes in the lives and projects of adolescents.
