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International Youth Day, observed every year on 12 August, is an opportunity to recognise the contribution of young people and draw attention to the issues that affect their lives, wellbeing and future. The United Nations has observed International Youth Day since 2000.

For parents and families, it is also a useful reminder that young people's health needs attention throughout the transition from childhood to adolescence and adulthood.

Good health during these years is not simply about treating illness. It includes supporting physical development, mental wellbeing, healthy lifestyle habits, preventive healthcare and early identification of concerns.

Why Youth Health Matters

Adolescence is a period of significant physical, emotional and social development. Young people gradually become more independent and begin making decisions that can influence their health in the years ahead.

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that around 1 in 2 (52%) young people aged 15–24 were living with at least one selected long-term health condition in 2022. Anxiety, asthma and depression were among the most common selected conditions among Australians aged 0–24.

AIHW also reports that mental health and behavioural conditions contributed the greatest burden among young people in 2024.

These figures highlight why youth healthcare should include both physical and mental wellbeing.

Physical Health During Adolescence

Young people continue to grow and develop throughout adolescence. Regular attention to physical health can help identify concerns and encourage healthy habits.

Important areas include:

Nutrition

A balanced diet provides the nutrients needed for growth, energy and everyday activities. Families can encourage healthy eating habits by offering a varied diet and creating positive attitudes towards food.

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity supports physical fitness and overall wellbeing. Encouraging young people to participate in activities they enjoy can make healthy movement a natural part of everyday life.

Sleep

Sleep is an important part of healthy development. Consistent sleep routines can support physical wellbeing, concentration and emotional health.

Preventive Healthcare

Healthcare should not only happen when a young person becomes sick. Regular health discussions, appropriate vaccinations and preventive care can help support wellbeing as children move into adolescence and adulthood.

Mental Health Is Youth Health

Mental wellbeing deserves equal attention.

Young people may experience pressure related to school, exams, university, work, friendships, relationships, social media or changes within their family. While occasional stress is a normal part of life, persistent changes in mood or behaviour may need attention.

Parents may notice:

• Withdrawal from family or friends
• Persistent sadness or irritability
• Changes in sleep
• Changes in appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Loss of interest in usual activities
• Increased anxiety or worry
• Changes in behaviour or school performance

These signs do not necessarily indicate a mental health condition. However, if concerns persist or interfere with everyday life, speaking with a GP can help determine whether further assessment or support is appropriate.

Healthy Habits Can Start Early

The habits developed during childhood and adolescence can influence health throughout life.

Young people can be encouraged to:

• Eat a balanced diet
• Stay physically active
• Maintain healthy sleep routines
• Limit excessive recreational screen time
• Avoid smoking and vaping
• Make informed decisions about alcohol
• Build supportive relationships
• Talk about emotional concerns
• Attend appropriate health checks
• Keep vaccinations up to date

The goal is not perfection. It is helping young people develop practical habits they can maintain as they become adults.

When Should Parents Consider Speaking to a GP?

Parents do not need to wait for a health concern to become severe before seeking professional advice.

A GP may be able to help when a young person has:

• Persistent physical symptoms
• Recurring infections or illness
• Breathing difficulties
• Significant changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep difficulties
• Developmental concerns
• Ongoing anxiety or stress
• Significant behavioural changes
• Difficulties managing an existing condition
• Concerns about vaccinations
• General concerns about physical or emotional wellbeing

If symptoms are severe, sudden or potentially life-threatening, seek urgent medical care.

Supporting Young People at Home

Parents can play an important role in helping young people look after their health.

Keep Communication Open

Young people may be more willing to discuss concerns when they feel listened to rather than judged.

Encourage Healthy Routines

Regular meals, physical activity, sleep and time away from screens can help create a balanced lifestyle.

Take Changes Seriously

A noticeable change in mood, behaviour, sleep or daily functioning should not automatically be dismissed as simply “part of growing up.”

Encourage Healthcare Confidence

As children become teenagers and young adults, help them gradually understand their own health, medications, appointments and healthcare needs.

This can help them become more confident in managing their health independently.

Children's and Youth Healthcare at AFMDP

At Aspley Family Medical & Dental Practice (AFMDP), children's healthcare is approached as more than treatment for individual illnesses.

The practice provides family-centred healthcare for infants, children and adolescents, including growth and developmental assessments, immunisations and vaccinations, acute illness care, chronic condition management, nutrition and lifestyle advice, and behavioural and mental health support.

AFMDP also highlights monitoring physical growth, motor skills, speech and language development, and social and emotional development as part of children's health care.

For families, having access to ongoing primary healthcare can provide an opportunity to discuss concerns as a child grows and their health needs change.

International Youth Day: A Reminder to Listen to Young People

International Youth Day is not only about celebrating young people's achievements. It is also an opportunity to listen to their experiences and consider what they need to stay healthy and thrive.

Good youth healthcare means recognising that physical health, mental wellbeing, development, relationships and lifestyle are connected.

For parents, one of the most valuable things they can do is create an environment where young people feel comfortable talking about their health and seeking help when they need it.

Building Healthier Futures Starts Today

Young people are the adults and community members of tomorrow. Supporting their health today can help establish a stronger foundation for the future.

From regular healthcare and vaccinations to nutrition, physical activity, sleep and mental wellbeing, every part of a young person's health deserves attention.

This International Youth Day, let's encourage young people to understand their health, speak openly about concerns and make informed choices about their wellbeing.

If you have concerns about your child's or young person's health, AFMDP's family-focused healthcare team in Aspley can help you discuss the next appropriate step.