Teen health and wellbeing

A guide for parents and carers supporting teenagers through key health-related topics. These pages cover a wide range of issues relevant to young people aged 11 and up, aiming to promote informed choices and emotional resilience.

Drugs and alcohol

A guide to help you know the facts and be more confident about talking about drugs and alcohol.

Eating right and healthy weight

We are surrounded by information about food and nutrition but often we often need help to encourage our children to make the right food choices.

Gambling and gaming

This page helps parents understand how gaming can sometimes feel like gambling for teenagers. It explains why this can be a problem, what signs to look out for, and gives easy tips to help keep young people safe and make good choices online.

Sexual health and contraception

It is a good idea to start talking to your teenager about sexual health and contraception before your teenager becomes sexually active.

Vaping

This page explains why vaping is harmful for young people and gives advice on how to get help to stop.

First aid guide for teenagers

As you grow more independent, knowing basic first aid can help you stay safe and support others in emergencies. Whether you're at home, school, or out with friends, these skills can make a real difference.

Teen mental health

Talking to your young person about their mental health can feel like walking into a lion's den. Find more information below on how can you best approach the subject.

Immunisation for teenagers

Immunisations for teenagers and young people. Explains the HPV, Td/IPV and MenACWY vaccinations given to young people in school years 7 to 13.

Puberty

Puberty usually happens between the ages of 8-16. Not everyone goes through it at the same time though as we’re all different.

Skin and acne

Teenage skin can be a source of stress - for both young people and their parents. As hormones surge during puberty, many teens experience oily skin, clogged pores and breakouts.

Teenage brain development

The teenage years are a time of rapid growth - not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. Understanding what’s happening in the brain can help you support them more effectively and respond with empathy when challenges arise.

Being active 11+

This page explains why regular physical activity is important for teens and offers simple tips to help them stay active every day.

Periods

Most girls start their periods when they're about 12, but they can start as early as 8, so it's important to talk to girls from an early age to make sure they're prepared.

Emotional health and wellbeing directory

Services and resources to support the emotional health and wellbeing of children and young people. Designed to help services, organisations and community partners find the right help, at the right time for children, young people and families.