Physical Development

Most young women have completed their growth and pubertal development by this age.
Some young men may continue to grow during this stage until puberty is completed.

Social and Emotional Development

Young adults begin to transition out of their parent’s home and may begin to prepare for their future (further education, marriage or a job/career).

Mental Development

Young adults become more concerned about their future.
They begin to use critical thinking and think about the needs of others.

School Issues

Many young adults prepare to attend college, learn a trade or get a job after graduation from high school.
Discuss your interests and career choices with your parents, guardian or close friend.

STAY SAFE

Young adults are naturally curious about sex. Be sure to get accurate information about sex. Friends may not always be the source of accurate information. Delaying sexual involvement could be the most important decision you can make.
Don’t use alcohol or other drugs. Never get in a car with a driver who has been drinking. NEVER!
Do not list personal information on the internet.
Helmets and protective gear should be worn while riding a bike, skateboarding or roller blading.
Seatbelts in the car are a must. They save lives. Always put yours on any time you get into a car.

STAY HEALTHY

Visit your doctor for a well check every year.

Fever

Fever is a normal response to illness. You may take acetaminophen to relieve any discomfort. Please call our office for an appointment if your fever lasts more than 72 hours or there are symptoms that concern you.

Vaccines

Keep vaccinated on the schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and your doctor. Check with your insurance company before each well visit. Ask about deductibles, maximum benefits and if they pay for ANY PART of the cost of vaccines.
Vaccines were due at 11 years of age (Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis, Meningitis, HPV). A meningitis booster is due between 16-18 years of age. Young adults in high risk categories and/or with chronic health conditions may have additional vaccine recommendations. Discuss this with your doctor.

Smoking

Do not smoke or use any other tobacco products. Consider stopping if you do smoke.

Hands

Don’t forget to wash your hands frequently. It is one of the most important things you can do to stay healthy.

Nutrition

Drink skim, ½% or 2% milk.
Young adults require 1,300 mg per day of calcium (4 servings of milk or dairy).
Eat 3 regular meals each day.
Limit pop, sugared drinks and juices. Avoid energy drinks.
Focus on “healthy eating” not dieting.
Limit fast food meals. Make healthy choices, including fruits and vegetables.
If you want to lose weight, increase your physical activity and take weight off slowly. Everyone should get at least 30 to 60 minutes of moderate intensity exercise every day.
Make sure the diet program you choose is healthy.

Dental Health

Brush with a soft toothbrush after each meal. Floss daily.
Have regular dental visits.

Sleep

Try to get about 8 hours of sleep each night.

Skin Protection

Limit your time in direct sunlight. Apply sunscreen (SPF 30) and reapply frequently.
If needed, insect repellents with a DEET concentration of 30 % or less may be used.

Adapted from Bright Futures Guidelines for Health Supervision of Infants, Children, and Adolescents—Third Edition: Joseph F. Hagan, Jr. MD, FAAP; Judith S. Shaw, RN, MPH, EdD; and Paula Duncan, MD, FAAP