Sleep Deprivation in Teens: A Common Problem

Teens on average need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep at night. But most don't get the amount of sleep they need. School, friends, homework, activities, television, and the computer may all have a higher priority for a teen than sleep. Sleep deprivation can have serious consequences for a teen's health and well-being.

When Your Teen Has an Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety is a normal part of life. But for some teens, anxiety can get so bad it causes problems in daily life. The good news is that anxiety can be treated to help relieve symptoms and help your teen feel better.

When Your Teen Is Diagnosed with Depression

Depression is a mood disorder. This means that the condition affects your child's mood and behavior. No one is exactly sure what causes depression. It is known that depression is associated with changes in levels of certain chemicals in the brain. These chemicals affect the ability to feel and experience pleasure.

Helping Your Teen Lose Weight

Does your teen weigh more than is healthy? Extra weight can cause health problems now and in the future. Being overweight can also cause emotional issues. Your child’s healthcare provider may have suggested that your child lose weight. Here are tips and suggestions to help your child meet that goal.

When Your Child Shows Signs of an Eating Disorder

An eating disorder is an intense focus on weight, appearance, and body image that causes abnormal eating patterns and changes in other behavior. Here's what you need to know about teens and eating disorders.

Common Breast Conditions in Teens

Puberty is the stage of adolescence when your child begins to develop physically into an adult. During puberty, a girl's breasts begin to grow. As the breasts develop, problems, like lumps or infections sometimes arise. These problems can be alarming. But they are common and rarely serious.

When Your Teenager Has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

PCOS is an imbalance of hormones. It affects the ovaries. The ovaries are the organs that store a woman's eggs. PCOS can also affect the rest of the body. PCOS can lead to serious health issues if not treated. Treatment can't cure the problem, but it helps reduce symptoms and prevent health problems.

Menstruation and Your Child: Talking About Periods

Menstruation can be a confusing and even embarrassing topic for girls and their parents to discuss. But it doesn't have to be. This sheet gives basic facts about periods. It also helps answer common questions a girl might have.