Poor air quality can make asthma worse. Here's what to do about it if you have asthma.
Asthma is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. Learn all about asthma here.
Use this printable sheet to help manage your asthma.
Asthma flare-ups, or attacks, can be handled, but it's even better if you can prevent them from happening. Find out how to deal with flare-ups.
Find out if allergies can make a person's asthma symptoms worse.
Some people have asthma symptoms only during or after exercise. This is called exercise-induced asthma. Get some tips for coping with it in this article.
Poor air quality can make asthma worse. Here's what to do about it if you have asthma.
Use this printable sheet to help manage your asthma.
Use this weekly diary to keep a record of your asthma symptoms, peak flows, and the amount of medicine taken.
Here's steps to remove or minimize triggers at home that cause asthma flare-ups.
Sports and exercise are a good idea for people with asthma. But some activities are better than others - find out more.
The weather can affect your asthma symptoms. If you think weather may be triggering your asthma, here are some tips for dealing with it.
Find out what can make your asthma worse, and what to do about it.
Asthma flare-ups, or attacks, can be handled, but it's even better if you can prevent them from happening. Find out how to deal with flare-ups.
Asthma is more common these days than it used to be. The good news is it's also a lot easier to manage and control.
Two different types of medicines are used to treat asthma: long-term control medicines and quick-relief medicines. Read about how they work, and why people might need to take them.
Taking responsibility for your own health care means understanding things like prescriptions. Read our tips for teens on filling a prescription.
If you have asthma, you're more likely to be allergic to a pet than someone who doesn't have asthma. Find out what you can do.
Tips and advice for teens on refilling a prescription.
Lots of teens have asthma. Here are tips on keeping it under control so you can prevent (or manage) a flare-up at school.
Experts now know that breathing in someone else's secondhand smoke is bad for you. Find out what you can do about it.
Find out why smoking is a bad idea - especially for people with asthma.
If you have asthma, travel can seem less fun because there's always the worry that something unexpected may cause a flare-up. Here's how to avoid problems so you can concentrate on the fun.
An asthma action plan is a written plan that helps you take control of your asthma. Get the details in this article.
Inhalers and nebulizers are tools that help you get asthma medicine into the lungs. Find out how to use them.
Your eyes itch, your nose is running, you're sneezing, and you're covered in hives. The enemy known as allergies has struck again.
Eczema is a common skin problem among teens. If you have eczema, read this article to find out more about it and how you can deal with the skin stress.
Each day you breathe about 20,000 times. Find out more about the lungs and breathing process.
If you suffer from a chronic illness, you know it can be anything but fun. But you can become better informed and more involved in your care. Here are tips to help you deal.
Lots of teens have asthma. Here are tips on keeping it under control so you can prevent (or manage) a flare-up at school.
When something keeps the air from moving in and out of the airways in your lungs, it's called an airway obstruction.
The airways in your lungs are like tubes or straws.
An allergen is a medical word for anything that causes an allergic reaction.
Many people who have asthma have some kind of allergy, too.
All warm-blooded animals shed tiny flakes from their skin called dander.
Asthma is a problem with the lungs that causes the airways to swell and produce lots of thick mucus.
An asthma action plan is a set of written instructions that can help a person manage breathing problems.
When a person has a lot of trouble with wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath, it's called an asthma flare-up, or attack.
When a person breathes, air comes in through the nose or mouth and then goes into the trachea (windpipe). From there, it passes through the bronchial tubes, which are in the lungs.
A narrowing of the airways is known as bronchoconstriction.
Bronchodilators are medications commonly used by people with asthma.
Not all steroids are the bad, muscle-building kind that some athletes take illegally.
A cough is a reflex that helps your body clear your throat and lungs.
Dust mites are microscopic bugs that live in household dust.
Some people have asthma symptoms (such as coughing, wheezing, or trouble breathing) only when they're playing sports or being active.
Histamine - a chemical found in some of the body's cells - causes many of the symptoms of allergies, such as a runny nose or sneezing.
Many people have allergy-induced asthma, which means that their asthma symptoms are triggered by allergic reactions.
This is a way of treating allergies with a series of regular allergy shots.
An inhaler is a device that gets medicine directly into a person's lungs.
Many people with asthma need to take medication every day to control their asthma.
The term "lung function" refers to how well a person is breathing.
A nebulizer is an electrically powered machine that turns liquid medication into a mist so that it can be breathed directly into the lungs through a face mask or mouthpiece.
A peak flow meter can tell you how well your lungs are working.
During the spring, summer, and fall, plants release pollen (a fine powder that is carried by the wind from plant to plant in order to fertilize them).
Quick-relief medicines are asthma medicines that work fast to stop or prevent asthma symptoms.
A retraction is a medical term for when the area between the ribs and in the neck sinks in when a person with asthma attempts to inhale.
A spacer makes it easier to use an inhaler.
A spirometer is an instrument that doctors use to measure how well a person's lungs are working. To use one, a person breathes into a mouthpiece.
Sulfites are food preservatives that can cause breathing difficulties in some people with asthma.
An asthma trigger is anything that brings on coughing, wheezing, trouble breathing, and other symptoms in a person with asthma.
A wheeze is a high-pitched whistling sound made when air flows through narrowed airways in the lungs, usually when people breathe out.
This quiz can give you insight into things that might affect your self-esteem so you can learn how to build and protect it.
Everyone gets rejected at some point. Get some insight into your coping skills by taking this quiz for teens.
We all mess up at times. An apology tells someone that we're sorry for the hurt we caused — even if we didn't do it on purpose. But does an apology fix everything? And how should you handle it if someone apologizes to you? Find out here.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
Are you on the outside looking in or the inside wanting out? Find out how to deal with cliques in this article for teens.
Teachers can look out for you, guide you, and provide you with an adult perspective. Many are willing to answer questions, offer advice, and help with personal problems.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Breaking up means having an awkward or difficult conversation. Here are some ideas on what to say and how to say it - and why it's best to break up in person.
Spend time with people who are nice to you. Here's how to tell when someone is being nice, or being mean.
Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature — but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground. Find out how to make the right choices for you.
Rejection hurts. But it's impossible to avoid. Life is about going for things. And when we do, rejection is always a possibility.
School counselors can give you all sorts of tips and support on solving problems and making good decisions. But how do you meet with a counselor and what is it like? Find out here.
Because everyone's situation is different, there are no easy answers to accepting a stepparent. But here are some ideas to help you deal.
If you feel depressed, you need to reach out for help and support. Read our tips for teens on talking to parents about depression.
Whether it's an everyday issue like schoolwork or an emergency situation, these tips can help you improve communications with your parents and other adults.
If you just learned you're pregnant, you're not alone. You probably wonder how to tell your parents and how they'll react. Read our article for some tips.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Thousands of you filled out our friendship survey. Find out what some of you said about being a good friend.
Knowing what to say comes naturally for some people, but others need some help. Here’s advice for teens who want to learn how to get along with people.
Part of being a teen is developing your own identity -one that is separate from the identities of your parents. Read about why you and your parents seem to be constantly at odds.
Bullying has everyone worried, not just the people on its receiving end. Learn about dealing with bullies, including tips on how to stand up for yourself or a friend.
Just as IQ is a way of being academically smart, emotional intelligence (EQ) is a way of being people-smart. But unlike IQ, we can work on improving our EQ. Here are some tips.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good. Focusing on what's good in our lives can also be good for us. Find out how in this article for teens.
We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.
Optimists see the good in things -- and science has discovered that optimists can do better in life. The good news is, even pessimists can be more optimistic. Find out how.
Looking for a workout program that's easy to learn, requires little or no equipment, and soothes your soul while toning your body? Read about yoga - and watch our slideshow for some easy poses to try.
Yoga can help reduce stress because it promotes relaxation, which is the natural opposite of stress. These tips for teens can help you tap into yoga's stress-reducing benefits.
Breathing and meditation techniques can have subtle but powerful effects on everything from stress to sports performance. Try these four techniques.
People feel and do their best when they experience at least 3 times as many positive emotions as negative ones. This article offers ideas on how to build these powerful emotions.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good, it can be good for you. These 3 steps can help you start feeling more appreciative of the good things in your life.
Feeling grateful for what we have (instead of obsessing about what we don't) can help us get more out of life. This worksheet is designed to get you thinking about gratitude.
Mindfulness helps people do their best at things, whether that's focusing on a task or getting along with others. This article for teens has details on practicing mindfulness so you can make it work for you.
Being mindful helps people do better in just about every part of life, like focusing on homework or feeling less stressed out. This article for teens has 5 exercises to practice building mindfulness skills.
Positivity is fun to practice – as well as a great way to learn more about yourself. This worksheet is designed to help you explore 10 common positive emotions.
People feel and do their best when they experience at least 3 times as many positive emotions as negative ones. This article offers ideas on how to build these powerful emotions.
Choosing your mood means being in control of it instead of feeling like it's controlling you. Here are tips on how to create the right mood to help you succeed at what you're trying to do.
Just as IQ is a way of being academically smart, emotional intelligence (EQ) is a way of being people-smart. But unlike IQ, we can work on improving our EQ. Here are some tips.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good. Focusing on what's good in our lives can also be good for us. Find out how in this article for teens.
We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.
People who do a good job of managing emotions know that it's healthy to express their feelings, but that it matters how they express them. Get tips in this article for teens.
Scientists are learning that positive emotions have a powerful effect on our brains and bodies, helping us feel, and act, our best. Let this article help you tap into the power of positive emotions.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
Emotions help us relate to other people, know what we want, and make choices. Even "negative" emotions are useful. Find out how to understand emotions and use them effectively.
We all face grief at some point. Here are 5 ideas that might help you cope when someone you love has died.
All over the world, people are staying home due to coronavirus (COVID-19). Social distancing is something we all can do to make a big difference. It's not easy, but these tips can help.
It can be hard to understand, but people who cut themselves sometimes do it because it actually makes them feel better. They are overflowing with emotions - like sadness, depression, or anger - that they have trouble expressing.
Do you wonder why you fly off the handle so easily sometimes? Do you wish you knew healthier ways to express yourself when you're steamed? Check out this article for help with dealing with anger.
If someone close to you has died, you probably feel overwhelmed with grief. Read about some things that might help you cope.
Depression is very common. For more information about depression and feeling better, check out this article.
Fear is a normal human reaction that protects us by signaling danger and preparing us to deal with it. Get the facts about fears and phobias and what causes them.
If you need mental health care but don't think you can afford it, you're not alone. Get tips on finding low-cost or free mental health care in this article for teens.
Getting help with emotions or stress is the same as getting help with a medical problem like asthma or diabetes. This article explains how therapy works and how it can help with problems.
If you've been cutting and you want to stop, here are some approaches that might help you.
Spend time with people who are nice to you. Here's how to tell when someone is being nice, or being mean.
Rejection hurts. But it's impossible to avoid. Life is about going for things. And when we do, rejection is always a possibility.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that affects some people and appears at the same time each year.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
We all feel overwhelmed by difficult emotions or situations sometimes. Here are the warning signs of suicide and ways to get help.
Everyone feels a little nervous and stressed before a test. And a touch of nervous anticipation can actually help keep you at peak performance. But for some people, this normal anxiety is more intense.
Severe depression can cloud a person's thinking and lead some people to think that life isn't worth living. But severe depression can be treated. Find out what to do and how to get help in this article for teens.
Because of all the changes taking place in your life, you may feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster. Find out more about bad moods and why you have them.
There's no one reason why people get depressed - many different things can play a role. Find out more about the things that can trigger depression.
This meditation helps us feel connected to and grateful for the people in our lives. Listen as we guide you through this meditation.
Breathing exercises help us slow down and relax. Let our audio recordings coach you through 3 simple breathing exercises: finger-count breathing, smiling breath, and belly breathing.
Unwind after a long day at school with this yoga routine for teens.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
Joining a club or team is a fun way to try new things, meet people, and be active. Learn more about the basics and benefits of getting involved.
Writing a report? Studying for a test? Having problems at school? Get tips and advice.
Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.
In this video series, teens talk about their experiences with bullying, stress, family life, managing health problems, staying fit, eating right — and what it means to be in love.
Volunteering gives you an opportunity to change lives, including your own. Get ideas on things you can do and tips on getting started in this article for teens.
Did you ever wonder what all those complex body systems do? Use this medical library to find out about basic human anatomy, how it all functions, and what happens when things go wrong.
Find out about the mysterious, life-sustaining fluid called blood.
Our bones, muscles, and joints form our musculoskeletal system and enable us to do everyday physical activities.
If the brain is a central computer that controls all the functions of the body, then the nervous system is like a network that relays messages back and forth to different parts of the body. Find out how they work in this Body Basics article.
Most people think digestion begins when you first put food in your mouth. But the digestive process actually starts even before the food hits your taste buds.
Hearing is their main job, but it's not all your ears do. Find out all about them in this body basics article for teens.
The endocrine system influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. It is instrumental in regulating mood, growth and development, metabolism, and sexual function, among other things.
Although your eyes are small, their structure is incredibly complex. Find out how they work in this body basics article.
Why do girls get periods? What goes on when a woman gets pregnant? What can go wrong with the female reproductive system? Find the answers to these questions and more in this article for teens.
The heart and circulatory system (also called the cardiovascular system) make up the network that delivers blood to the body's tissues.
See how the joints work.
The immune system is made up of special cells, proteins, tissues, and organs that defend people against germs and microorganisms.
The kidneys perform several functions that are essential to health, the most important of which are to filter blood and produce urine.
Each day you breathe about 20,000 times. Find out more about the lungs and breathing process.
What makes up a guy's reproductive system and how does it develop? Find the answers to these questions and more.
Your body gets the energy it needs from food through a process called metabolism. Get all the facts on metabolism in this article.
Did you know that your mouth is the first step in the body's digestive process? Or that the mouth and teeth are essential for speech? Learn about the many roles your mouth and teeth play.
Our skin protects the network of tissues, muscles, bones, nerves, blood vessels, and everything else inside our bodies. Hair and nails are actually modified types of skin.
The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that helps keep bodily fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections.
Insomnia can be a big problem for teens. Read our tips on getting a good night's sleep.
Many people think of guys as being carefree when it comes to appearance. But guys spend plenty of time in front of the mirror. And some worry just as much as girls do about their looks.
Backpacks help you to stay organized. They're also better for carrying school supplies than messenger or other shoulder bags. But can they cause health problems?
Sleep problems can keep some teens awake at night even when they want to sleep. If that sounds like you, find out what you can do.
Most small cuts, scrapes, or abrasions heal on their own. Here are tips for teens on how to treat cuts at home - and when to get medical help.
Earbuds are basically a tiny pair of speakers that go inside the ears. They're fine at low volumes, but they can cause permanent hearing loss if not used properly. Find out what's safe (and not) in this article for teens.
Finding it hard to fit in fitness? Try these simple exercises for teens.
Teens need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. But you might not be getting it. Here's why - and tips for getting more shut-eye.
Puberty causes all kinds of changes in your body - and some may not make you feel very desirable. Read this article for information on dealing with greasy hair, perspiration, and body hair.
A toenail is ingrown when it begins to break through and grow into the soft skin of the toe. Find out more about ingrown toenails.
Experts now know that breathing in someone else's secondhand smoke is bad for you. Find out what you can do about it.
Here are some practical, everyday tips on making exercise and healthy eating work for you instead of feeling like it's the other way around.
There's a lot more to taking care of your teeth than breath mints and mouth sprays. Read this article to learn the facts on flossing, how to give plaque the brush-off, and much more.
Even if you're lucky enough to have perfect vision, taking care of and protecting your eyes is vital to keeping your peepers perfect. Learn all about how to take care of your baby blues (or browns or greens) in this article.
When it comes to pads and tampons, there are lots of choices. It may take some experimenting before you find what works best for you. Here are some tips.
Sending and receiving messages late at night can disrupt your sleep and leave you tired and unfocused when it's time for school.
Sometimes it may seem like your skin is impossible to manage, especially when you find a huge zit on your nose or a cold sore at the corner of your mouth. Here are ways to prevent and treat common skin problems.
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be a major problem, especially when you're about to snuggle with your sweetie or whisper a joke to your friend. The good news is that bad breath often can be easily prevented.
Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.
If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.
Get tips for fending off the flu in this article for teens.
There's a 97% chance that someone you know will need a blood transfusion. Blood donors — especially donors with certain blood types — are always in demand. Find out what's involved in this article for teens.
Fainting is pretty common in teens. The good news is that most of the time it's not a sign of something serious.
News reports on health and medicine can be confusing —and sometimes downright scary. How do you know what is important and accurate?
Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself.
Medicines can cause problems if they get into the water supply or the wrong hands. Find out how to dispose of old or unused meds safely in this article for teens.
Did you know that the most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands? If you don't wash your hands frequently, you can pick up germs from other sources and then infect yourself.
Taking charge of your own health care is a big step, and it can be a little overwhelming. Here's a quick crash course on insurance for teens.
Health insurance has a language all its own. This article for teens explains what some key terms mean.
Taking responsibility for your own health care means understanding things like prescriptions. Read our tips for teens on filling a prescription.
Missing out on shots puts you at more serious risk than you might think. That one little "ouch" moment protects you from some major health problems.
Visit our center on managing your medical care for advice on how to get involved in taking charge of your health and choosing the right health care providers.
Tips and advice for teens on refilling a prescription.
Genes play an important role in how we look and act, and even in whether we get sick. This article gives the lowdown on genes, genetic disorders, and new research into gene therapy.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Each time you hop up on a doctor's exam table, somebody makes a note in your medical records. There may come a time when you need your medical information, so find out how to get it and how it's protected.
If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.
Adolescent medicine doctors are specialists who have extra training in the medical and emotional issues that many teens face.
Just getting braces and have no idea what to expect? Had braces for a while but wonder what's going on in there? Whatever your situation is, you're not alone: millions of teens have braces.
Doctors use several different types of allergy tests, depending on what a person may be allergic to. Find out what to expect from allergy tests.
Here's a quick look at what may happen before, during, and after an operation or procedure.
About 5 million people a year get blood transfusions in the United States. This article explains why people need them and who donates the blood used.
Blood might look the same and do the same job, but tiny cell markers mean one person's body can reject another person's blood. Find out how blood types work in this article for teens.
Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells. Find out how chemo works and what to expect when getting treatment.
You deserve medical care from someone who helps you feel comfortable and understood. Get tips on finding the best doctor for you.
Because EHRs improve how well your doctors talk to each other and coordinate your treatment, they can enhance your medical care. Get the facts on electronic health records.
If you need mental health care but don't think you can afford it, you're not alone. Get tips on finding low-cost or free mental health care in this article for teens.
Medicines can cause problems if they get into the water supply or the wrong hands. Find out how to dispose of old or unused meds safely in this article for teens.
Girls should get their first gynecological checkup between ages 13 and 15. Find out what happens during a yearly gyn visit -- and why most girls don't get internal exams.
Taking charge of your own health care is a big step, and it can be a little overwhelming. Here's a quick crash course on insurance for teens.
Health insurance has a language all its own. This article for teens explains what some key terms mean.
This video shows what it's like to get an IV.
Visit our center on managing your medical care for advice on how to get involved in taking charge of your health and choosing the right health care providers.
Need to get a blood test? An MRI? These videos show what happens in 10 of the most common medical tests.
Physical therapy helps people get back to full strength and movement - and manage pain - in key parts of the body after an illness or injury.
Lots of images may come to mind when you think of plastic surgery. This special type of surgery involves a person's appearance and ability to function.
You're probably used to answering your doctor's questions - not asking your own. But it's your body, so you should be able to ask your doctor questions about anything you'd like. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Figuring out health care is part of becoming an independent adult. Here are tips for teens on what that involves, and how to choose your own doctor.
Your best resource for health information and advice is your doctor - the person who knows you, your medical history, and accurate medical information to answer your questions.
If you're a guy, you may be wondering why the doctor needs to do a testicular exam. Find out in this article.
Doctors recommend that all teens get vaccinated against the flu. Here are the facts on flu vaccines.
Here's a basic look at what each kind of anesthesia does.
Medicines can cure, stop, or prevent disease; ease symptoms; or help in the diagnosis of illnesses. This article describes different types of medications and offers tips on taking them.
You probably can't wait to get back to your normal activities, but it takes a while for a limb that's been in a cast to finish healing. Here's what to expect.
Knowing what to expect with surgery before you get to the hospital can make you less anxious about your surgical experience - and less stress helps a person recover faster.
Scheduled for a hospital stay? Knowing what to expect can make it a little easier.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
How well a wound heals depends on where it is on the body and what caused it – as well as how well someone cares for the wound at home. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
Acanthosis nigricans is a darkening and thickening of the skin that can be a sign of other medical conditions. Find out more.
Blisters, calluses, and corns can be uncomfortable, but they're also pretty common and easy to prevent. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
Wondering whether you should pierce one of your precious parts? Read about what to expect.
This article is all about bruises, including why they happen, how to make them go away faster, and why they turn all those funny colors.
Scars from acne can seem like double punishment - first you had to suffer through the pimples, now you have marks to remind you. Is there anything you can do?
There's no sure way to prevent acne. But these tips might help reduce the number and severity of your breakouts.
Cellulite is the lumpy look ("cottage cheese") commonly found on the thighs, stomach, and butt. It's due to collections of fat that push against the connective tissue beneath the skin.
Cold sores (also known as fever blisters) are pretty common and lots of people get them. So what causes them and what can you do?
Most small cuts, scrapes, or abrasions heal on their own. Here are tips for teens on how to treat cuts at home - and when to get medical help.
If you're worried about dandruff, you're not alone. Dandruff can start in puberty, and lots of teens and adults live with it. Learn how to control it.
Eczema is a common skin problem among teens. If you have eczema, read this article to find out more about it and how you can deal with the skin stress.
You can buy dozens of products for getting rid of unwanted hair. How do they work? And how do you use them?
Did you know that the most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands? If you don't wash your hands frequently, you can pick up germs from other sources and then infect yourself.
Lice aren't dangerous, but they do spread from person to person easily. They can also be hard to get rid of. Find out how to prevent lice -- and what to do if someone you know has them.
Hives cause raised red bumps or welts on the skin. They're pretty common and usually not serious. Find out what to do about hives in this article for teens.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Tanning beds are no safer than the sun -- and may be even more dangerous. Read this article to get the details, and to find out what is safe when it comes to getting that golden glow.
A toenail is ingrown when it begins to break through and grow into the soft skin of the toe. Find out more about ingrown toenails.
Melanoma is different from other skin cancers because it can spread if it's not caught early. Find out how to lower your risk of getting melanoma and how doctors treat it.
The skin rash molluscum contagiosum isn't a big deal. Find out what to do about it in this article for teens.
Follow these shaving tips for guys and get a quick, easy, and painless shave.
Your skin is usually fairly elastic, but when you grow or gain weight really quickly (like during puberty), you may get fine lines on your body called stretch marks.
The sun can do a lot more than just give you a warm summer glow. Get the facts on sun and skin damage - and what you can do to protect yourself and still look tan.
What's the safest way to get a tattoo? Does it hurt? What can go wrong? Knowing the facts will help you decide whether a tattoo is a good idea for you.
Sometimes it may seem like your skin is impossible to manage, especially when you find a huge zit on your nose or a cold sore at the corner of your mouth. Here are ways to prevent and treat common skin problems.
Vitiligo is a loss of skin pigment that causes white spots or patches to appear on the skin. It's not medically dangerous, but it can affect a person's appearance. Find out more.
Most warts are easy to treat and are rarely cause for alarm. Read this article for more information on warts and how to get rid of them.
Almost every teen gets acne at some point. This article addresses common questions and concerns about acne and tells you what you can do about it.
Find out about the mysterious, life-sustaining fluid called blood.
Our bones, muscles, and joints form our musculoskeletal system and enable us to do everyday physical activities.
Most people think digestion begins when you first put food in your mouth. But the digestive process actually starts even before the food hits your taste buds.
The endocrine system influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. It is instrumental in regulating mood, growth and development, metabolism, and sexual function, among other things.
Although your eyes are small, their structure is incredibly complex. Find out how they work in this body basics article.
Why do girls get periods? What goes on when a woman gets pregnant? What can go wrong with the female reproductive system? Find the answers to these questions and more in this article for teens.
The heart and circulatory system (also called the cardiovascular system) make up the network that delivers blood to the body's tissues.
The immune system is made up of special cells, proteins, tissues, and organs that defend people against germs and microorganisms.
The kidneys perform several functions that are essential to health, the most important of which are to filter blood and produce urine.
Each day you breathe about 20,000 times. Find out more about the lungs and breathing process.
What makes up a guy's reproductive system and how does it develop? Find the answers to these questions and more.
Your body gets the energy it needs from food through a process called metabolism. Get all the facts on metabolism in this article.
Did you know that your mouth is the first step in the body's digestive process? Or that the mouth and teeth are essential for speech? Learn about the many roles your mouth and teeth play.
Our skin protects the network of tissues, muscles, bones, nerves, blood vessels, and everything else inside our bodies. Hair and nails are actually modified types of skin.
The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that helps keep bodily fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections.
Genes play an important role in how we look and act, and even in whether we get sick. This article gives the lowdown on genes, genetic disorders, and new research into gene therapy.
Anemia is common in teens because they undergo rapid growth spurts, when the body needs more nutrients like iron. Learn about anemia and how it's treated.
Every student finds it hard to stay on top of schoolwork sometimes. So what happens when you have to miss a lot of school? This article for teens offers tips and advice.
Get the basics on cancer and cancer treatments in this article.
Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells. Find out how chemo works and what to expect when getting treatment.
It's unusual for teens to have cancer, but it can happen. The good news is that most will survive and return to their everyday lives. Learn about how to cope if you or someone you know has cancer.
Melanoma is different from other skin cancers because it can spread if it's not caught early. Find out how to lower your risk of getting melanoma and how doctors treat it.
More than half of all people with cancer are treated with radiation therapy. Get the facts on radiation therapy, including what it is, what to expect, and how to cope with side effects.
Side effects of cancer treatment can include flu-like symptoms, hair loss, and blood clotting problems. After treatment ends, most side effects go away.
Thrombocytopenia is when someone has too few platelets in their bloodstream. Many things can cause it and most can be treated.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Nearly 1 in 5 deaths in the United States is related to tobacco. Are you ready to kick the habit?
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
It's hard to know how to respond when someone you love — someone your own age — is diagnosed with cancer. Here are some thoughts on dealing with feelings and helping your friend.
Experts now know that breathing in someone else's secondhand smoke is bad for you. Find out what you can do about it.
Smoking is on the decline, but some people are still lighting up. Why? The answer is addiction. Find out more in this article for teens.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Because of all the changes taking place in your life, you may feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster. Find out more about bad moods and why you have them.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Blood might look the same and do the same job, but tiny cell markers mean one person's body can reject another person's blood. Find out how blood types work in this article for teens.
Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells. Find out how chemo works and what to expect when getting treatment.
The HPV vaccine can help protect against the virus that causes genital warts and may lead to some kinds of cancer. Find out more in this article for teens.
The testicular self-examination (TSE) is an easy way for guys to check their own testicles to make sure there aren't any unusual lumps or bumps - which are usually the first sign of testicular cancer.
Taking responsibility for your own health care means understanding things like prescriptions. Read our tips for teens on filling a prescription.
Tanning beds are no safer than the sun -- and may be even more dangerous. Read this article to get the details, and to find out what is safe when it comes to getting that golden glow.
More than half of all people with cancer are treated with radiation therapy. Get the facts on radiation therapy, including what it is, what to expect, and how to cope with side effects.
Tips and advice for teens on refilling a prescription.
Side effects of cancer treatment can include flu-like symptoms, hair loss, and blood clotting problems. After treatment ends, most side effects go away.
Stem cells can develop into cells with different skills, so they're useful in treating diseases like cancer.
If your doctor prescribed steroids as part of your treatment for an illness, don't worry. It's not the illegal, doping scandal kind of steroid. Get the details in this article for teens.
The sun can do a lot more than just give you a warm summer glow. Get the facts on sun and skin damage - and what you can do to protect yourself and still look tan.
Knowing what to expect with surgery before you get to the hospital can make you less anxious about your surgical experience - and less stress helps a person recover faster.
We all get worried or nervous about things. Here are 5 ways to control anxiety.
It's important to take action against depression - it doesn't just go away on its own. In addition to getting professional help, here are 5 ways to feel better.
When your body changes, so can your image of yourself. Find out how your body image affects your self-esteem and what you can do.
When chemotherapy and other treatments attack cancer cells, they can affect some of the body's healthy cells too. As a teen, you'll want to know what this can mean to your fertility.
If you've just finished a long hospital stay, you may have questions about reconnecting with friends and family. Get answers in this article for teens.
Do you wonder why you fly off the handle so easily sometimes? Do you wish you knew healthier ways to express yourself when you're steamed? Check out this article for help with dealing with anger.
It's unusual for teens to have cancer, but it can happen. The good news is that most will survive and return to their everyday lives. Learn about how to cope if you or someone you know has cancer.
If you suffer from a chronic illness, you know it can be anything but fun. But you can become better informed and more involved in your care. Here are tips to help you deal.
Depression is very common. For more information about depression and feeling better, check out this article.
Fear is a normal human reaction that protects us by signaling danger and preparing us to deal with it. Get the facts about fears and phobias and what causes them.
Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.
It's hard to know how to respond when someone you love — someone your own age — is diagnosed with cancer. Here are some thoughts on dealing with feelings and helping your friend.
There's good stress and bad stress. Find out what's what and learn practical ways to cope in this article.
Whether it's an everyday issue like schoolwork or an emergency situation, these tips can help you improve communications with your parents and other adults.
When your sibling has a serious illness, you may find yourself juggling some pretty intense and confusing emotions. Here are some ways to take care of yourself during this stressful time.
Because of all the changes taking place in your life, you may feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster. Find out more about bad moods and why you have them.
A basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a group of blood tests that provide doctors with clues about how the body is working. Find out why doctors do this and what's involved for teens.
This common blood test helps doctors gather information about a person's blood cells and how they're working. Find out why doctors do this test and what's involved for teens.
This group of blood tests provides doctors with clues about how the body is working. Find out why doctors do these tests and what's involved for teens.
This test measures the speed at which red blood cells fall to the bottom of an upright glass test tube. Find out why doctors do it and what's involved for teens.
If your liver isn't working properly, it can affect your overall health. Find out why doctors do liver function tests and what's involved for teens.
A magnesium test looks at levels of the mineral magnesium in a person's blood. Find out why doctors do this test and what's involved for teens.
A phosphorus test looks at levels of phosphorus in a person's blood. Find out why doctors do this test and what's involved for teens.
Girls should get their first gynecological checkup between ages 13 and 15. Find out what happens during a yearly gyn visit -- and why most girls don't get internal exams.
The testicular self-examination (TSE) is an easy way for guys to check their own testicles to make sure there aren't any unusual lumps or bumps - which are usually the first sign of testicular cancer.
Need to get a blood test? An MRI? These videos show what happens in 10 of the most common medical tests.
A Pap smear is a medical test that helps doctors figure out if there are any problems with a girl's cervix. Find out what happens during a Pap smear.
If you're a guy, you may be wondering why the doctor needs to do a testicular exam. Find out in this article.
Every student finds it hard to stay on top of schoolwork sometimes. So what happens when you have to miss a lot of school? This article for teens offers tips and advice.
If you've just finished a long hospital stay, you may have questions about reconnecting with friends and family. Get answers in this article for teens.
Writing a report? Studying for a test? Having problems at school? Get tips and advice.
If the brain is a central computer that controls all the functions of the body, then the nervous system is like a network that relays messages back and forth to different parts of the body. Find out how they work in this Body Basics article.
How can you tell if you have a concussion? What should you do? And what's going to happen with sports and school? The facts are all on this site for teens.
Alex plays high school football, track, basketball, and lacrosse. He's had two concussions. Here, he talks about his experience and what he learned.
All body parts take time to heal, even brains.This article for teens has tips on what doctors often recommend to help people heal from a concussion.
A concussion can affect you at school because it's a type of brain injury. Doing schoolwork and being in a classroom can sometimes make things worse. Here's what to know about school and concussions.
As long as people play sports, there will be concussions from time to time. Find out how to protect yourself and what to do if you get a concussion playing sports.
Metabolic syndrome is a signal that someone could be on the road to serious health problems. Find out more in this article for teens.
Your body gets the energy it needs from food through a process called metabolism. Get all the facts on metabolism in this article.
A couple of pounds of extra body fat are not a health risk for most people. But when people are severely overweight, it can cause health problems.
If you suffer from a chronic illness, you know it can be anything but fun. But you can become better informed and more involved in your care. Here are tips to help you deal.
It's perfectly normal for people with diabetes to feel sad, angry, confused, upset, alone, embarrassed, and even jealous. After all, these are natural emotions that everyone feels from time to time. But how can you cope?
Sure, you've heard of diabetes. But how much do you really know about what it's like to have it? Read our tips on helping a friend with diabetes.
You probably spend more than a third of your waking hours at school. Chances are you'll need to check your blood sugar levels or give yourself an insulin injection during that time. So what do you do?
When your sibling has a serious illness, you may find yourself juggling some pretty intense and confusing emotions. Here are some ways to take care of yourself during this stressful time.
A diabetes educator and dietitian chose these recipes, but they're not just for people with diabetes. Almost anyone looking for nutritious meals and snacks can enjoy them.
If you have diabetes, your doctor may have recommended keeping track of how many carbohydrates (carbs) you eat. But what exactly are carbs and how do they affect your blood sugar?
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
Dining out is probably a part of your social scene. If you have diabetes, you can pretty much eat the same foods as your friends and family. You just have to keep track of what you eat and enjoy certain foods in moderation.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
People with diabetes don't need to be on strict diets, but do need to pay attention to what they eat and when. Crack open the cookbooks and surf to your favorite recipe website because it's time to plan meals that you love!
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
People who have diabetes may hear or read a lot about controlling, or managing, the condition. But what is diabetes control and why is it so important?
The endocrine system influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. It is instrumental in regulating mood, growth and development, metabolism, and sexual function, among other things.
Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose, a sugar that is the body's main source of fuel. In type 1 diabetes, glucose can't get into the body's cells where it's needed.
Teens with type 2 diabetes have to pay close attention to what they eat and do.
Weight can influence diabetes, and diabetes can influence weight. Managing weight can really make a difference in a person's diabetes management plan.
Thinking about your diabetes a little bit now — and taking some steps to prevent problems — can make things easier down the road.
For people with diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels is important. Having a blood sugar level that's too high can make you feel lousy, and having high blood sugar levels a lot can be unhealthy.
If you have diabetes, you can use this printable sheet to record your blood glucose levels.
The things you do now could help prevent diabetes later, depending on the type of diabetes. Here's the scoop on diabetes prevention.
People who have diabetes may hear or read a lot about controlling, or managing, the condition. But what is diabetes control and why is it so important?
Taking care of your diabetes includes knowing when to call a doctor and get medical help.
Being sick is no fun for anyone. For people with diabetes, being sick can also affect blood sugar levels.
Taking responsibility for your own health care means understanding things like prescriptions. Read our tips for teens on filling a prescription.
This step-by-step graphic shows how to give an insulin injection.
To keep your diabetes under control, stay healthy, and prevent future problems, you need to keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range. To do that, check and track those levels regularly.
Has your doctor told you to lose weight? Get ideas on food, fitness, and staying motivated. We've also got weight management tools and recipes designed just for teens.
Taking medicines is a major part of staying healthy if you have diabetes because they help you keep your blood sugar levels under control.
Metabolic syndrome is a signal that someone could be on the road to serious health problems. Find out more in this article for teens.
Tips and advice for teens on refilling a prescription.
You probably spend more than a third of your waking hours at school. Chances are you'll need to check your blood sugar levels or give yourself an insulin injection during that time. So what do you do?
Teens with diabetes can exercise and play sports at the same level as everyone else, so whether you want to go for the gold or just go hiking in your hometown, diabetes shouldn't hold you back.
People with type 1 diabetes need to follow a treatment plan to manage their diabetes and stay healthy and active.
People with type 2 diabetes need to follow a plan to manage their diabetes and stay healthy and active.
These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.
Find out what the experts have to say.
For people with diabetes, controlling blood sugar levels is important. Having a blood sugar level that's too high can make you feel lousy, and having high blood sugar levels a lot can be unhealthy.
When blood glucose levels drop too low, it's called hypoglycemia. Very low blood sugar levels can cause severe symptoms that need to be treated right away.
It takes all of your team members — you, your parents, doctors, certified diabetes educators, dietitians, and mental health pros — to help you take care of your diabetes.
Sometimes the immune system makes a mistake and attacks the body's own tissues or organs. This is called autoimmunity.
Beta cells are cells that make insulin, a hormone that controls the level of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood.
Blood glucose level is the amount of glucose in the blood.
A blood glucose meter is a small, portable machine that's used to check how much glucose (a type of sugar) is in the blood (also known as the blood glucose level).
For a teen with diabetes, a bolus is a dose of insulin taken to handle a rise in blood glucose.
Most of the nutrients in food fall into three major groups: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
Many people with diabetes use carbohydrate ("carb") counting to estimate the amount of carbohydrate in the foods they eat.
Certified diabetes educators are health care professionals who specialize in treating people with diabetes.
Diabetes mellitus (sometimes called "sugar diabetes") is a condition that occurs when the body can't use glucose (a type of sugar) normally.
Many people with diabetes use a food-balancing program called the exchange meal plan to guide what they eat each day.
The body uses fat as a fuel source, and fat is the major storage form of energy in the body.
Fatty acids are the building blocks of the fat in our bodies and in the food we eat.
Glucagon is a hormone that raises the level of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood.
Glucose is the main type of sugar in the blood and is the major source of energy for the body's cells.
The glycemic index measures how fast and how much a food raises blood glucose levels.
When the body doesn't need to use the glucose for energy, it stores it in the liver and muscles. This stored form of glucose is made up of many connected glucose molecules and is called glycogen.
The glycosylated hemoglobin test shows what a person's average blood glucose level was for the 2 to 3 months before the test.
Hormones are chemical substances that act like messenger molecules in the body.
Hyperglycemia occurs when the level of glucose in the blood is higher than it should be.
Hypoglycemia occurs when the level of glucose in the blood is lower than it should be.
Insulin is a hormone that lowers the level of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood.
Although researchers are testing other ways to give insulin, it's only available now in a form that must be injected just under the skin.
An insulin pump is an insulin-delivering device that's used by some people with diabetes.
Insulin resistance occurs when the body doesn't respond as well to the insulin that the pancreas is making and glucose is less able to enter the cells.
The pancreas contains clusters of cells that produce hormones. These clusters are known as islets.
Ketoacidosis is a severe life-threatening condition requiring immediate treatment.
When fats are broken down for energy, chemicals called ketones appear in the blood and urine.
The kidneys are a pair of organs that are found on either side of the spine, just below the rib cage in the back.
Nephropathy is a medical term for kidney disease.
Neuropathy is a medical term for disease of the nervous system.
The pancreas is a long, flat gland that lies in the abdomen behind the stomach.
A pediatric endocrinologist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of children with diseases of the endocrine system, such as diabetes and growth disorders.
A person with polydipsia drinks excessive amounts of fluid.
A person with polyphagia eats excessive amounts of food.
A person with polyuria makes large amounts of urine.
Retinopathy is the medical term for disease of the retina.
A urinalysis is a laboratory examination of a person's urine.
Quick action is essential during a serious allergic reaction. It helps to remind yourself of action steps so they become second nature if there's an emergency. Here's what to do.
Your eyes itch, your nose is running, you're sneezing, and you're covered in hives. The enemy known as allergies has struck again.
Doctors use several different types of allergy tests, depending on what a person may be allergic to. Find out what to expect from allergy tests.
Asthma is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. Learn all about asthma here.
Visit our Asthma Center for information and advice on managing and living with asthma.
People who have celiac disease, a disorder that makes their bodies react to gluten, can't eat certain kinds of foods. Find out more - including what foods are safe and where to find them.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disease for doctors to diagnose — and even fully understand. Find out more about this often misunderstood condition.
Find out if allergies can make a person's asthma symptoms worse.
Eczema is a common skin problem among teens. If you have eczema, read this article to find out more about it and how you can deal with the skin stress.
Living with an egg allergy means you have to be aware of what you're eating and read food labels carefully. Here are some tips for teens who have an egg allergy.
Doctors are diagnosing more and more people with food allergies. Knowing what to expect and how to deal with food allergies can make a big difference in preventing serious illness.
Taking precautions and carrying meds are just part of normal life for someone who has a food allergy. Here are some tips on how to make travel also feel perfectly routine.
With food allergies, preventing a reaction means avoiding that food entirely. But sometimes allergens can be hidden in places you don't expect. Here are tips on living with a food allergy.
Hives cause raised red bumps or welts on the skin. They're pretty common and usually not serious. Find out what to do about hives in this article for teens.
Asthma is more common these days than it used to be. The good news is it's also a lot easier to manage and control.
Milk is in all kinds of foods, even things like baked goods. So what should a person who's allergic to milk do?
People who have HIV might feel alone and frightened at times. More than anyone, they need good friends like you to lean on and trust.
Although food allergies are more common than ever, people who have them may feel different or embarrassed. A good friend can really help.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Peanuts are one of the most common allergy-causing foods, and they often find their way into things you wouldn't imagine. Learn the facts on living with a nut or peanut allergy.
Poison ivy can grow anywhere, from the woods to your backyard. This article for teens has tips on how to avoid the plant and what to do if you get a rash.
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is when someone takes medicines every day to lower his or her chances of getting HIV.
Psoriasis causes skin cells to build up on the surface of the skin where they form itchy, red areas and thick scales. Find out how to deal with psoriasis, and what causes it, in this article for teens.
A person with severe allergies can be at risk for a sudden, serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This reaction can seem scary, but the good news is it can be treated.
Shellfish allergies can be serious - and shellfish can appear in some surprising foods and products. Read about shellfish allergy and what to do when a reaction is severe.
Find out why smoking is a bad idea - especially for people with asthma.
This video shows what it's like to get a spirometry test.
Stem cells can develop into cells with different skills, so they're useful in treating diseases like cancer.
Thrombocytopenia is when someone has too few platelets in their bloodstream. Many things can cause it and most can be treated.
Anemia is common in teens because they undergo rapid growth spurts, when the body needs more nutrients like iron. Learn about anemia and how it's treated.
These videos show what's involved in getting a blood test and what it's like to be the person taking the blood sample.
Blood might look the same and do the same job, but tiny cell markers mean one person's body can reject another person's blood. Find out how blood types work in this article for teens.
There's a 97% chance that someone you know will need a blood transfusion. Blood donors — especially donors with certain blood types — are always in demand. Find out what's involved in this article for teens.
People with sickle cell disease need good friends who understand and can help them get through tough times. This article for teens helps you learn what you can do to be that friend.
Sickle cell crisis is when sickled cells clog small blood vessels, causing extreme pain and other symptoms. Learn more, including how to help prevent a crisis and what to do if one does happen.
Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder that makes red blood cells change shape and cause health problems. Find out more in this article for teens.
Stem cells can develop into cells with different skills, so they're useful in treating diseases like cancer.
Thrombocytopenia is when someone has too few platelets in their bloodstream. Many things can cause it and most can be treated.
At a certain point, you'll no longer be able to see your childhood doctor. Here are tips for teens on making a smooth switch to adult sickle cell care.
Find out what the experts say.
When people have Von Willebrand disease, their blood doesn't clot properly. Many teens with VWD have such mild symptoms that they never know they have it.
If the tendon just above your heel becomes swollen or irritated due to overuse, it can lead to a painful condition called Achilles tendonitis. Find out how to treat it - and prevent it.
A sprained ankle is a very common injury that happens when the ligaments that support the ankle get overly stretched or torn. Find out how to avoid ankle sprains and what to do if you get one.
ACL injuries can happen in active and athletic kids when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, resulting in a torn ligament.
Blount disease is a growth disorder that affects the bones of the lower leg. It causes bowing of the leg below the knee, which gets worse if it's not treated.
Bones are tough stuff - but even tough stuff can break. Find out what happens when a bone fractures.
A broken collarbone is one of the most common types of broken bones. Find out how it can happen - and how to treat and avoid fractures.
A buckle or torus fracture is a type of broken bone. One side of the bone bends, raising a little buckle, without breaking the other side of the bone. Teens don't usually get this type of fracture.
Bursitis, an irritation of the small fluid sacs that provide cushioning in some joints, is often caused by sports-related injuries or repeated use of a particular joint.
This article for teens has tips on taking care of a cast so it keeps working as it should.
Ira has cerebral palsy (CP), but it doesn't interfere with his love of sports or his dream of being a broadcaster. Check out this video.
A comminuted fracture is a type of broken bone. The bone is broken into more than two pieces.
Female athlete triad is a combination of three conditions: disordered eating, amenorrhea (loss of a girl's period), and osteoporosis (a weakening of the bones).
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that causes pain in a person's muscles, joints, and other soft tissues. Find out how doctors tell if a person has fibromyalgia and what can be done to treat it.
A broken bone requires emergency medical care. Here's what to do.
A greenstick fracture is a type of broken bone. The bone cracks on one side only, not all the way through the bone.
A groin strain is when one or more of the muscles in the inner thigh gets stretched, injured, or torn. Find out what to do for groin strains.
A hamstring strain happens when one or more of the muscles in the back of the leg gets stretched too far and starts to tear. Find out how to treat hamstring strains in this article for teens.
Most hip pointer injuries can be easily treated and heal in their own time. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
Broken bones have an amazing ability to heal. New bone forms within a few weeks of the injury, although full healing can take longer.
See how the joints work.
Learn about juvenile idiopathic arthritis, a specific kind of arthritis that usually occurs in kids and teens younger than 17.
Caroline loved sports. But when an ongoing knee injury kept her from playing the sports she loved, she discovered new interests. Read her story.
Your spine, or backbone, normally curves forward gently as it runs up your back. Sometimes, though, someone's back can be rounded too far forward, which is a condition known as kyphosis.
Lupus is a disease that affects the immune system. Learn how lupus is treated, signs and symptoms, how to support a friend who has it, and more.
MCL injuries happen when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, causing a torn ligament.
The key to healing meniscus tears is not to get back into play too quickly. Find out what meniscus tears are and how to treat them.
Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is an overuse injury that can cause knee pain in teens, especially during growth spurts. Learn more.
Sometimes a bad cut that gets infected can lead to even worse things, like a bone infection called osteomyelitis. The easiest way to protect yourself is to practice good hygiene.
Overuse (or repetitive stress) injuries happen when too much stress is placed on a part of the body, causing problems like swelling, pain, muscle strain, and tissue damage.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (or runner's knee) is the most common overuse injury among runners, but it can also happen to other athletes who do activities that require a lot of knee bending.
In teens, biceps tendonitis is usually an overuse injury that causes tendons in the upper arm to be swollen or irritated. Most cases heal on their own if you follow a few guidelines from your doctor.
Quadriceps contusions are common in sports that have a lot of direct contact or a chance of collisions or wipeouts. Find out what to do if you get one - and how to avoid them.
Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) happen when movements are repeated over and over, damaging a bone, tendon, or joint.
Scoliosis makes a person’s spine curve from side to side. Large curves can cause health problems like pain or breathing trouble. Health care providers treat scoliosis with back braces or surgery when needed.
Some teens with scoliosis wear a brace to help stop their curve from getting worse as they grow. Find out more about how scoliosis braces work and how long people wear them in this article for teens.
Sever's disease, a common heel injury, is due to inflammation (swelling) of the growth plate in the heel. While painful, it's only temporary and has no long-term effects.
Shin splints are pain on the inner part of the shinbone, often from running or another high-impact activity. They get better with rest.
This growth-related injury is more common in teens who play sports that require a lot of running or jumping. Find out why it happens - and what you can do to avoid and treat it.
A good, stable connection at your hip joint is what lets you walk, run, make that jump shot, and shake it on the dance floor. But in some teens – particularly those who are obese – the hip joint is weakened by slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE).
A spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that's done to stabilize or straighten the bones in the back. It can help some teens with scoliosis.
Steven was diagnosed with SMA when he was 3. Here's a look at his life today and why he says, "When someone tells you you can't do something, don't be afraid to try something new."
A splint is a support device that keeps an injured area from moving. Doctors often use splints to hold bones and joints in place so they can heal after a fracture.
Sprains and strains are common injuries, especially for people who play hard or are into sports. Find out what they are and how to recuperate from one.
It's not always easy to tell if you have a stress fracture, and stress fractures can get worse quickly. This article explains how to prevent and treat them.
Find out what the experts have to say.
If you tore your ACL, you might need this surgery to fix it. Find out what's involved.
You probably can't wait to get back to your normal activities, but it takes a while for a limb that's been in a cast to finish healing. Here's what to expect.
Cerebral palsy is one of the most common developmental disabilities in the United States. It affects a person's ability to move and coordinate body movements.
Ira has cerebral palsy (CP), but it doesn't interfere with his love of sports or his dream of being a broadcaster. Check out this video.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disease for doctors to diagnose — and even fully understand. Find out more about this often misunderstood condition.
How can you tell if you have a concussion? What should you do? And what's going to happen with sports and school? The facts are all on this site for teens.
Alex plays high school football, track, basketball, and lacrosse. He's had two concussions. Here, he talks about his experience and what he learned.
All body parts take time to heal, even brains.This article for teens has tips on what doctors often recommend to help people heal from a concussion.
Seizures are a common symptom of epilepsy, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Learn all about epilepsy, including what to do if you see someone having a seizure.
Fainting is pretty common in teens. The good news is that most of the time it's not a sign of something serious.
Almost everyone gets headaches. So how do you know if a headache is just a passing pain or something more?
Does the thought of Lyme disease make you worry about enjoying the great outdoors? Here's some information to help you lower your risk for Lyme disease.
Lyme disease can be treated if it's caught early. Find out what causes it, how it's treated, and how to prevent it.
If you've ever had a migraine, you know that these headaches can cause severe pain and other symptoms. Read about migraine causes, treatments, prevention tips, and lots more.
A concussion can affect you at school because it's a type of brain injury. Doing schoolwork and being in a classroom can sometimes make things worse. Here's what to know about school and concussions.
As long as people play sports, there will be concussions from time to time. Find out how to protect yourself and what to do if you get a concussion playing sports.
Strokes are more common in older adults, but teens can have one too. This "brain attack" happens when blood flow to the brain stops, even for a second.
A tic is a sudden, repetitive movement or sound that some people make, which can be difficult to control.
Tourette syndrome affects the body's brain and nervous system by causing tics - repeated, uncontrollable movements or involuntary vocal sounds.
There's no one reason why people get depressed - many different things can play a role. Find out more about the things that can trigger depression.
Find out what the experts have to say.
When chemotherapy and other treatments attack cancer cells, they can affect some of the body's healthy cells too. As a teen, you'll want to know what this can mean to your fertility.
Get the basics on cancer and cancer treatments in this article.
Visit our Cancer Center for teens to get information and advice on treating and coping with cancer.
Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells. Find out how chemo works and what to expect when getting treatment.
It's unusual for teens to have cancer, but it can happen. The good news is that most will survive and return to their everyday lives. Learn about how to cope if you or someone you know has cancer.
Melanoma is different from other skin cancers because it can spread if it's not caught early. Find out how to lower your risk of getting melanoma and how doctors treat it.
It's hard to know how to respond when someone you love — someone your own age — is diagnosed with cancer. Here are some thoughts on dealing with feelings and helping your friend.
More than half of all people with cancer are treated with radiation therapy. Get the facts on radiation therapy, including what it is, what to expect, and how to cope with side effects.
Stem cells can develop into cells with different skills, so they're useful in treating diseases like cancer.
If your doctor prescribed steroids as part of your treatment for an illness, don't worry. It's not the illegal, doping scandal kind of steroid. Get the details in this article for teens.
People who have celiac disease, a disorder that makes their bodies react to gluten, can't eat certain kinds of foods. Find out more - including what foods are safe and where to find them.
Cholera is an intestinal infection that mostly affects people in tropical regions. Find out more about cholera in this article for teens.
Constipation is a very common problem that usually happens because a person's diet doesn't include enough fluids and fiber. In most cases, making simple changes can help you feel better.
Crohn's disease is a condition that causes parts of the intestine (bowel) to get red and swollen. It can be challenging to deal with, but many teens find that they're able to feel well and have few symptoms for long periods of time.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that causes the body to produce mucus that's extremely thick and sticky. It mainly affects the lungs and the pancreas, causing serious breathing and digestive problems.
Besides extra calories, teens with cystic fibrosis have some specific nutritional needs. Find out more.
This sample meal plan for teens with cystic fibrosis provides a day's worth of meals that add up to about 3,750 calories.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease doesn't just affect old people who eat too much while watching TV. Active, healthy teens can have GERD too.
A hernia is an opening or weakness in the wall of a muscle, tissue, or membrane that normally holds an organ in place. Learning to prevent hernias isn't hard to do - check out these tips.
Indigestion is just another name for an upset stomach. It usually happens when people eat too much or too fast, or have foods that don't agree with them.
Inflammatory bowel disease is an ongoing illness caused by an inflammation of the intestines. There are two kinds of IBD: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Some teens get stomachaches and diarrhea often. Read about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common intestinal disorder that affects the colon.
If you have lactose intolerance, you're not alone. Millions of Americans have the condition. Check out these tips on dealing with lactose intolerance.
Lots of different problems can cause similar kinds of stomach pain - not all of them related to the digestive system. Here are some clues about what could be going on.
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that happens only in the colon. It causes the inner lining of the colon to get red and swollen with sores called ulcers.
Doctors once thought that stress, spicy foods, and alcohol caused most stomach ulcers. But ulcers are actually caused by a particular bacterial infection, by certain medications, or from smoking. Read all about ulcers.
This video shows what it's like to get an upper GI test.
Humans, animals, and even plants can have albinism, a condition that gives people a kind of pale appearance. Find out more about albinism here.
A dwarf is a short-statured person whose adult height is 4 feet 10 inches or under. Find out what happens when a person has dwarfism and why some people are born with it.
Emily was adopted from Russia, where she was born with a type of dwarfism. In this video, she talks about her life philosophy and how she overcame the many hurdles she faced.
This genetic condition only affects guys and is also called "XXY." It can affect a guy's ability to learn and his sexual development, but doctors can treat it. Find out more.
Metabolic syndrome is a signal that someone could be on the road to serious health problems. Find out more in this article for teens.
Genes play an important role in how we look and act, and even in whether we get sick. This article gives the lowdown on genes, genetic disorders, and new research into gene therapy.
Turner syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects about 1 in every 2,500 girls. Learn more about the condition and how doctors treat it.
Lots of people wonder if they have hypoglycemia, but the condition is not common in teens. Get the facts on hypoglycemia.
Find out what the experts say.
When people have Von Willebrand disease, their blood doesn't clot properly. Many teens with VWD have such mild symptoms that they never know they have it.
The things you do now could help prevent diabetes later, depending on the type of diabetes. Here's the scoop on diabetes prevention.
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disease for doctors to diagnose — and even fully understand. Find out more about this often misunderstood condition.
Our Diabetes Center provides information and advice for teens about treating and living with diabetes.
A dwarf is a short-statured person whose adult height is 4 feet 10 inches or under. Find out what happens when a person has dwarfism and why some people are born with it.
In most cases, teens who are small are just physically maturing a bit more slowly than their friends. Occasionally, though, there's a medical reason why some kids and teens stop growing. Find out about growth problems and how doctors can help.
Sure, you've heard of diabetes. But how much do you really know about what it's like to have it? Read our tips on helping a friend with diabetes.
People with type 1 diabetes need to follow a treatment plan to manage their diabetes and stay healthy and active.
Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose, a sugar that is the body's main source of fuel. In type 1 diabetes, glucose can't get into the body's cells where it's needed.
People with type 2 diabetes need to follow a plan to manage their diabetes and stay healthy and active.
Teens with type 2 diabetes have to pay close attention to what they eat and do.
Arrhythmias are abnormal heartbeats usually caused by an electrical "short circuit" in the heart. Many are minor and not a significant health threat, but others can indicate a more serious problem.
Atrial septal defect, or ASD, is a heart defect that some people are born with. Most ASDs are diagnosed and treated successfully with few or no complications.
Doctors use cardiac catheterization to gather information about the heart and blood vessels as well as treat certain heart conditions. Find out what's involved.
When someone has coarctation of the aorta, that person's aorta (the major blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart to the body) is narrowed at some point.
This video shows what it's like to have an electrocardiogram (EKG for short).
An echocardiogram (also called an echo or cardiac ultrasound) uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. See why doctors might order this test for teens.
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is more common in adults, but it can happen at any age. Learn what it is and how to treat it.
Ventricular septal defect, or VSD, is a heart condition that a few teens can have. Find out what it is, how it happens, and what doctors do to correct it.
Bedwetting can be embarrassing and upsetting for teens, but there are effective ways to correct the problem and scientists are constantly developing new treatments.
Hematuria is pretty common, and most of the time it's not serious. Find out what causes blood in the urine and what to do about it.
With glomerulonephritis, tiny filtering units in the kidneys stop working properly, causing problems like too much fluid in the body and swelling. Most of the time it can be treated. Find out more.
Hemodialysis is the type of kidney dialysis that doctors use most to take over the kidneys' job of filtering the blood. Find out more in this article for teens.
Sometimes, the kidneys can't do their job properly. In teens, kidney disease is usually due to infections, structural issues, glomerulonephritis, or nephrotic syndrome.
Kidney stones mostly happen to adults, but sometimes teens can get them. Find out what kidney stones are, how to treat them, and ways to help prevent them.
If the kidneys stop working, a person will need either dialysis or a transplant. Get the facts on kidney transplant in this article for teens.
This medical treatment helps people with kidney failure. It can be done at home, often overnight, to take over the kidneys' job of filtering blood. Find out more in this article for teens.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common reasons that teens visit a doctor. Learn about the symptoms of UTIs, how they're treated, and more in this article.
ADHD is a medical condition that affects how well someone can sit still, focus, and pay attention. This article for teens has the basics on ADHD.
Medicine doesn’t cure ADHD. But it does help boost a person's ability to pay attention, slow down, and have more self-control. This article for teens has details on how ADHD medicines help.
There's no quick fix for ADHD. But taking medicine and working with counselors can help. This article for teens has tips for handling school and relationships.
Autism spectrum disorder can make communicating and interacting with other people difficult. Find out more.
Therapy is part of the treatment for most people diagnosed with ADHD. This article is for teens who want to know what to expect from therapy and how it works for ADHD.
Dyslexia is a learning disability in which people have difficulty learning to read, even though they are smart enough and are motivated to learn. Learn more about dyslexia and how to deal with it.
Asthma is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. Learn all about asthma here.
Visit our Asthma Center for information and advice on managing and living with asthma.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that causes the body to produce mucus that's extremely thick and sticky. It mainly affects the lungs and the pancreas, causing serious breathing and digestive problems.
Besides extra calories, teens with cystic fibrosis have some specific nutritional needs. Find out more.
Teens with cystic fibrosis have some specific nutritional needs. Here's how they can meet those needs.
An incentive spirometer is a way to do breathing exercises to help with healing after surgery or to manage an illness. This article explains how to use an incentive spirometer.
An incentive spirometer is a way to do breathing exercises to help with healing after surgery or to manage an illness. This article explains how incentive spirometry works.
This video shows what it's like to get an X-ray.
If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.
These videos show what's involved in getting a blood test and what it's like to be the person taking the blood sample.
This video shows what it's like to get a CAT scan.
Doctors use cardiac catheterization to gather information about the heart and blood vessels as well as treat certain heart conditions. Find out what's involved.
This video shows what it's like to have an electrocardiogram (EKG for short).
An echocardiogram (also called an echo or cardiac ultrasound) uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. See why doctors might order this test for teens.
This video shows what it's like to get an IV.
Find out what the experts have to say.
This video shows what it's like to get an MRI.
Visit our center on managing your medical care for advice on how to get involved in taking charge of your health and choosing the right health care providers.
A spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that's done to stabilize or straighten the bones in the back. It can help some teens with scoliosis.
This video shows what it's like to get a spirometry test.
Stem cells can develop into cells with different skills, so they're useful in treating diseases like cancer.
This video shows what it's like to get a strep test.
This video shows what it's like to get an upper GI test.
This video shows what it's like to get a urine test.
This video shows what it's like to get an X-ray.
Canker sores are fairly common, and they usually go away on their own without treatment. Read this article for teens to find out more, including tips on what to do about the pain.
Gum disease doesn't just happen to people your grandparents' age - it can happen to teens too. Get the details here.
A peritonsillar abscess is an area of pus-filled tissue at the back of the mouth, next to one of the tonsils. Find out how it happens and what to do.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be a major problem, especially when you're about to snuggle with your sweetie or whisper a joke to your friend. The good news is that bad breath often can be easily prevented.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
We use the words "oveweight" and "obese" a lot, but they actually have medical meanings. Find out how doctors diagnose these conditions and what they mean for a person's health.
Acanthosis nigricans is a darkening and thickening of the skin that can be a sign of other medical conditions. Find out more.
One of the biggest questions guys and girls have as they grow and develop is whether they're the right weight. One place to start is by learning about body mass index, or BMI.
Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood. The body needs some cholesterol, but too much can be a problem. Discover more about cholesterol in this article for teens.
If a person is struggling with extra weight, it can add to the emotional ups and downs of being a teen. Get some tips on coping here.
We've all eaten a whole bag of chips out of boredom or while cramming for a big test. Learn more about emotional eating, and how to manage it, in this article for teens.
Keeping an exercise log is a great way to stay motivated and reach exercise goals.
There are several different types of weight loss surgeries. One type is gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy. Find out what's involved and who gets it in this article for teens.
Lots of people are unhappy with their present weight, but aren't sure how to change it - or even if they need to. Get the facts on weight loss here.
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is more common in adults, but it can happen at any age. Learn what it is and how to treat it.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
Has your doctor told you to lose weight? Get ideas on food, fitness, and staying motivated. We've also got weight management tools and recipes designed just for teens.
Metabolic syndrome is a signal that someone could be on the road to serious health problems. Find out more in this article for teens.
In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the ovaries produce higher than normal amounts of certain hormones, which can interfere with egg development and release. Learn how doctors diagnose and treat PCOS.
Losing weight can feel like a challenge, no matter how much we want it. It can sometimes seem like our minds are working against us. That's where weight-management counselors can help.
Teens with type 2 diabetes have to pay close attention to what they eat and do.
Weight loss surgery works. But it's serious stuff, both physically and emotionally. Find out about two weight loss surgery options for teens.
These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.
See what the experts have to say.
A couple of pounds of extra body fat are not a health risk for most people. But when people are severely overweight, it can cause health problems.
Doctors may do weight loss surgery if someone who is very overweight has tried but failed to lose weight and faces serious medical problems. Find out what makes teens eligible for bariatric surgery.
Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Alex plays high school football, track, basketball, and lacrosse. He's had two concussions. Here, he talks about his experience and what he learned.
Emily was adopted from Russia, where she was born with a type of dwarfism. In this video, she talks about her life philosophy and how she overcame the many hurdles she faced.
Caroline loved sports. But when an ongoing knee injury kept her from playing the sports she loved, she discovered new interests. Read her story.
Steven was diagnosed with SMA when he was 3. Here's a look at his life today and why he says, "When someone tells you you can't do something, don't be afraid to try something new."
In this video, teens talk about dealing with various health problems as well as fitting healthy eating and exercise into their lives.
If periods aren't regular it's usually because a girl's body is still developing. But sometimes, changes in blood flow can be a sign of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB).
It's rare for teen girls to have breast problems. But sometimes a doctor or nurse might think a breast exam is a good idea. Find out why, as well as what's involved in a breast exam.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Concerned about your growth or development? Puberty can be delayed for several reasons. Luckily, doctors usually can help teens with delayed puberty to develop more normally.
Read this article to learn all about endometriosis and how doctors help girls who have it.
Female athlete triad is a combination of three conditions: disordered eating, amenorrhea (loss of a girl's period), and osteoporosis (a weakening of the bones).
AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is a disease where the body is unable to fight off many infectious diseases as it normally could. Find out how AIDS is spread and how to protect yourself against it.
This genetic condition only affects guys and is also called "XXY." It can affect a guy's ability to learn and his sexual development, but doctors can treat it. Find out more.
Get the facts on which period problems are normal and which ones might indicate something's going on.
A pelvic exam is where a doctor or nurse practitioner looks at a girl's reproductive organs (both outside and internally) and feels the uterus and ovaries to be sure everything's normal. Find out what's involved in this article for teens.
In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the ovaries produce higher than normal amounts of certain hormones, which can interfere with egg development and release. Learn how doctors diagnose and treat PCOS.
Serious testicular injuries are relatively uncommon, but testicular injury can be painful. Read this to find out what steps you can take to protect yourself from injury.
This emergency condition happens when the spermatic cord gets twisted and cuts off blood supply, causing pain and swelling. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
Turner syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects about 1 in every 2,500 girls. Learn more about the condition and how doctors treat it.
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins in the scrotum. Although there is no way to prevent a varicocele, it usually needs no special treatment.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Earbuds are basically a tiny pair of speakers that go inside the ears. They're fine at low volumes, but they can cause permanent hearing loss if not used properly. Find out what's safe (and not) in this article for teens.
Perforated eardrums can really hurt. And if you can't hear as well as usual, they can be scary. The good news is, most people who have them get all their hearing back eventually.
Want to hear what's being said to you, by you, and about you? Find out how hearing aids help people with certain types of hearing loss.
Hearing impairment occurs when there's a problem with or damage to one or more parts of the ear. Find out its causes and what can be done to help correct it.
Do you know someone who stutters or has another speech disorder? Find out how speech disorders are treated, how you can help a friend or classmate cope, and lots more.
A stye is a backed-up oil gland in the eyelid. Styes are usually easy to get rid of, but there are some things you can do to help. Learn more about styes.
When one or more parts of the eye or brain that are needed to process images become diseased or damaged, severe or total loss of vision can occur. Read all about visual impairment.
People can get abscesses on the skin, under the skin, in a tooth, or even inside the body. Most abscesses are caused by infection, so it can help to know what to do. Find out in this article for teens.
Acanthosis nigricans is a darkening and thickening of the skin that can be a sign of other medical conditions. Find out more.
Although the name athlete's foot sounds funny, if you have this skin infection, you're probably not laughing. The good news is that it is generally easy to treat.
Blisters, calluses, and corns can be uncomfortable, but they're also pretty common and easy to prevent. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
This article is all about bruises, including why they happen, how to make them go away faster, and why they turn all those funny colors.
Scars from acne can seem like double punishment - first you had to suffer through the pimples, now you have marks to remind you. Is there anything you can do?
There's no sure way to prevent acne. But these tips might help reduce the number and severity of your breakouts.
Cellulite is the lumpy look ("cottage cheese") commonly found on the thighs, stomach, and butt. It's due to collections of fat that push against the connective tissue beneath the skin.
Most small cuts, scrapes, or abrasions heal on their own. Here are tips for teens on how to treat cuts at home - and when to get medical help.
If you're worried about dandruff, you're not alone. Dandruff can start in puberty, and lots of teens and adults live with it. Learn how to control it.
Lice aren't dangerous, but they do spread from person to person easily. They can also be hard to get rid of. Find out how to prevent lice -- and what to do if someone you know has them.
Hives cause raised red bumps or welts on the skin. They're pretty common and usually not serious. Find out what to do about hives in this article for teens.
Find out what the experts have to say.
A toenail is ingrown when it begins to break through and grow into the soft skin of the toe. Find out more about ingrown toenails.
Jock itch is a pretty common fungal infection of the groin and upper thighs. It is generally easy to treat - and avoid - by following a few simple steps.
The skin rash molluscum contagiosum isn't a big deal. Find out what to do about it in this article for teens.
Paronychia is an infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail. Most of the time, it's not serious. Find out what causes it, what to do, and how to prevent it.
Pityriasis rosea is a pink or gray skin rash that's common in teens and young adults. It may itch, but it's harmless. Find out what to do about it in this article for teens.
Psoriasis causes skin cells to build up on the surface of the skin where they form itchy, red areas and thick scales. Find out how to deal with psoriasis, and what causes it, in this article for teens.
Ringworm isn't a worm at all - it's the name for a type of fungal skin infection. The good news is that ringworm is easy to treat.
Vitiligo is a loss of skin pigment that causes white spots or patches to appear on the skin. It's not medically dangerous, but it can affect a person's appearance. Find out more.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Almost every teen gets acne at some point. This article addresses common questions and concerns about acne and tells you what you can do about it.
How well a wound heals depends on where it is on the body and what caused it – as well as how well someone cares for the wound at home. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
Deciding whether to drink is a personal decision that we each eventually have to make. Get the facts about alcohol.
The definition of binge drinking in the United States is the consumption of five or more drinks in a row by men – or four or more drinks in a row by women – at least once in the previous two weeks. Surprised? Find out more.
Alcoholism causes anguish not only for the person who drinks, but for everyone who is involved with that person. But there are things you can do to help cope with the problems alcoholism creates in families.
Amphetamines are stimulants that speed up brain and body functions. Find out how these drugs can affect you in this article for teens.
Will using steroids transform you into the most powerful athlete your coach has ever seen? Read this article to learn the facts on steroid use.
Bath salts are powerful stimulant drugs that increase brain and central nervous system activity. Find out how they can affect you in this article for teens.
Caffeine has probably helped you through long nights of studying or filling out college applications. But how much do you know about caffeine and its side effects?
Cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant drug. Find out more about cocaine and its effects.
The DXM in cough and cold medicines can cause feelings like out-of-body sensations. But even though these medicines are sold over the counter, there are serious health risks of taking too much. Find out more in this article for teens.
Taken medically, depressants help people get through problems like anxiety. But when used as a recreational drug, they can cause problems and affect some of the body's vital functions. Find out more.
It's not hard to find drugs, and sometimes it may seem like everyone's doing them or wanting you to do them. But there are downsides (and dangers) to taking drugs.
GHB is an illegal drug that slows down some of the processes in the brain and central nervous system. Because it causes memory loss and is easily slipped into drinks, it's known as a "date rape" drug.
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads through blood or other body fluids, and can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. The most common way people become infected is by sharing drug paraphernalia.
Heroin is a highly addictive drug made from the seed pod of the opium poppy plant. Learn more about heroin and its effects in this article for teens.
Household products are safe for cleaning, painting, and the other things they're meant to do. But as inhalants, they can cause serious problems, even death.
Ketamine is a fast-acting and powerful anesthetic that is often used as a date rape drug. Find out more in this article for teens.
LSD is a chemical made from a type of fungus. Learn about its effects in this article for teens.
Find out how the drug Ecstasy can affect someone who uses it.
You've probably heard a lot of conflicting information about marijuana. Here's what recent research has found.
Meth is a powerful stimulant drug that's extremely addictive and destructive. Find out how it works and why it's smart to avoid it.
Some kinds of mushrooms are considered illegal drugs because they contain substances that cause people to hallucinate. Find out more about hallucinogenic mushrooms in this article for teens.
PCP use is pretty rare these days, mostly because of the drug's scary side effects. Find out more about the drug phencyclidine in this article for teens.
There are many downsides to experimenting with prescription drugs. Find out more in this article for teens.
Rohypnol is a powerful sedative that has a reputation as a "date rape" drug. Find out more about it in this article for teens.
There are many types of salvia plants. One, salvia divinorum, has a substance that can cause psychedelic experiences. Learn more about salvia in this article for teens.
Some people use certain medicines without a prescription because they think these meds help with focus and concentration. If you've heard of "study drugs" and wonder if there are any risks, find out in this article for teens.
Opioids are very good at controlling pain, but there are risks to taking them. If you've been prescribed a medicine that contains an opioid, find out how to use it safely.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
Find out what you can do if you think you or a friend has a drug or alcohol addiction - from recognizing the warning signs to suggestions to help you stay clean.
Often the only way to know if someone is infected with HIV is through testing. Here are the facts on what's involved in getting tested — and who should get tested for HIV and why.
Nearly 1 in 5 deaths in the United States is related to tobacco. Are you ready to kick the habit?
Experts now know that breathing in someone else's secondhand smoke is bad for you. Find out what you can do about it.
Chewing or dipping: These terms are familiar to the millions of teens who use smokeless tobacco. If you're ready to quit or you want to learn more about smokeless tobacco, read this article.
Smoking is on the decline, but some people are still lighting up. Why? The answer is addiction. Find out more in this article for teens.
Find out why smoking is a bad idea - especially for people with asthma.
E-cigarettes aren't a safe alternative to smoking, they're just another way of putting nicotine into your body. Get the facts on e-cigs and vaping.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say!
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
See what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
If your doctor moves, can you ask for a copy of your medical records? Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say!
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Now that you're older, your body may be changing. This is a normal part of growing up. Here's what's going on.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
If you tore your ACL, you might need this surgery to fix it. Find out what's involved.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
See what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say!
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Now that you're older, your body may be changing. This is a normal part of growing up. Here's what's going on.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what our experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say!
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what our experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
It's tempting, but should you pop that pimple? Find out.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say!
Find out what the experts have to say.
Get tips for fending off the flu in this article for teens.
Every year from October to May, millions of people across the United States come down with the flu. Get the facts on the flu - including how to feel better if you get it.
The immune system is made up of special cells, proteins, tissues, and organs that defend people against germs and microorganisms.
Doctors recommend that all teens get vaccinated against the flu. Here are the facts on flu vaccines.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Asthma flare-ups, or attacks, can be handled, but it's even better if you can prevent them from happening. Find out how to deal with flare-ups.
Dehydration is when the amount of water in the body has dropped too low. Read about what causes dehydration, what it does to your body, and how to prevent it.
Almost everyone gets headaches. So how do you know if a headache is just a passing pain or something more?
If you've been waking up with headaches, feeling stuffy or congested, and experiencing swelling around your eyes, you may have sinusitis - an infection of the sinus air spaces found in the bones around the nose.
If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.
Get tips for fending off the flu in this article for teens.
Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself.
Did you know that the most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands? If you don't wash your hands frequently, you can pick up germs from other sources and then infect yourself.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Doctors recommend that all teens get vaccinated against the flu. Here are the facts on flu vaccines.
Asthma flare-ups, or attacks, can be handled, but it's even better if you can prevent them from happening. Find out how to deal with flare-ups.
Taking care of your diabetes includes knowing when to call a doctor and get medical help.
Being sick is no fun for anyone. For people with diabetes, being sick can also affect blood sugar levels.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
Sometimes our ideas and beliefs stand in the way of asking for help. Here are ideas for teens on how to get past 5 common barriers to getting help.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
Choosing your mood means being in control of it instead of feeling like it's controlling you. Here are tips on how to create the right mood to help you succeed at what you're trying to do.
Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.
Scientists are learning that positive emotions have a powerful effect on our brains and bodies, helping us feel, and act, our best. Let this article help you tap into the power of positive emotions.
Dread it or love it, you gotta go to school. Looking for ways to make the first day a little less painful? Here are some tips.
Joining a club or team is a fun way to try new things, meet people, and be active. Learn more about the basics and benefits of getting involved.
Teachers can look out for you, guide you, and provide you with an adult perspective. Many are willing to answer questions, offer advice, and help with personal problems.
The transition from middle school to high school is an important one. Here are a few topics that commonly worry incoming freshmen and some things you might want to know about them.
Deciding whether to drink is a personal decision that we each eventually have to make. Get the facts about alcohol.
Sometimes our ideas and beliefs stand in the way of asking for help. Here are ideas for teens on how to get past 5 common barriers to getting help.
Are you on the outside looking in or the inside wanting out? Find out how to deal with cliques in this article for teens.
Using technology to bully is a problem that's on the rise. The good news is awareness of how to prevent cyberbullying is growing even faster. See our tips on what to do.
Bullying has everyone worried, not just the people on its receiving end. Learn about dealing with bullies, including tips on how to stand up for yourself or a friend.
It's not hard to find drugs, and sometimes it may seem like everyone's doing them or wanting you to do them. But there are downsides (and dangers) to taking drugs.
Teachers can look out for you, guide you, and provide you with an adult perspective. Many are willing to answer questions, offer advice, and help with personal problems.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
You might want to make new friends, but aren’t sure how to do it. This article for teens with autism can help.
Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature — but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground. Find out how to make the right choices for you.
School counselors can give you all sorts of tips and support on solving problems and making good decisions. But how do you meet with a counselor and what is it like? Find out here.
Find out what the experts have to say.
After hearing news of school shootings or other violence, it's natural for students — no matter how old they are or where they go to school — to worry about whether this type of incident may someday happen to them or their friends.
Find out what the experts have to say.
If you suspect that someone is bringing a weapon to school or threatening someone else's life, it requires immediate attention. This article offers some tips on getting help.
In this video, teens talk about their experiences with bullying.
Everyone feels a little nervous and stressed before a test. And a touch of nervous anticipation can actually help keep you at peak performance. But for some people, this normal anxiety is more intense.
Find out what our readers said about how they handle back-to-school worries.
Backpacks help you to stay organized. They're also better for carrying school supplies than messenger or other shoulder bags. But can they cause health problems?
Every student finds it hard to stay on top of schoolwork sometimes. So what happens when you have to miss a lot of school? This article for teens offers tips and advice.
If you've just finished a long hospital stay, you may have questions about reconnecting with friends and family. Get answers in this article for teens.
News reports on health and medicine can be confusing —and sometimes downright scary. How do you know what is important and accurate?
Use these breakfast planning ideas to select healthy foods that satisfy your taste buds and get you on your way fast.
Teens need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. But you might not be getting it. Here's why - and tips for getting more shut-eye.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Visit our center on managing your medical care for advice on how to get involved in taking charge of your health and choosing the right health care providers.
Lots of teens have asthma. Here are tips on keeping it under control so you can prevent (or manage) a flare-up at school.
A concussion can affect you at school because it's a type of brain injury. Doing schoolwork and being in a classroom can sometimes make things worse. Here's what to know about school and concussions.
You probably spend more than a third of your waking hours at school. Chances are you'll need to check your blood sugar levels or give yourself an insulin injection during that time. So what do you do?
Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to get a sports physical.
Some people use certain medicines without a prescription because they think these meds help with focus and concentration. If you've heard of "study drugs" and wonder if there are any risks, find out in this article for teens.
In this video, teens talk about dealing with various health problems as well as fitting healthy eating and exercise into their lives.
In this video, teens talk about what stresses them out and how they cope.
Find out what our readers said about how they handle back-to-school worries.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Stressed out about speaking or performing in front of people? These tips can help you cope.
When researching school projects, it helps to know how to evaluate and choose online resources. Here are tips.
Having trouble getting a handle on all of your homework? Get your work space set, your schedule organized, and your studying done with the help of this article.
Reading on your own isn't like reading for school. You can pick something that's all about your interests — whether it's ancient martial arts, computers, or fashion design. Get tips on how.
Want to stay on top of your schoolwork by taking great notes? Here's how!
Whether it's protecting yourself from hackers or cyberbullies, these tips for teens will help you navigate the digital world safely.
It's not just for school: Mastering the skills of getting organized, staying focused, and seeing work through to the end will help in just about everything you do.
Yoga is a great way to take a study break because it refocuses and re-energizes both the body and mind. This routine uses poses that work for teens.
You have a history test tomorrow, a math test the next day, and weekly French pop quizzes. Don't panic - our article provides tips on how to study.
Everyone feels a little nervous and stressed before a test. And a touch of nervous anticipation can actually help keep you at peak performance. But for some people, this normal anxiety is more intense.
Do you sweat, chew your pencil, and feel butterflies in your stomach as your teacher hands out a test? Study these test-taking tips!
Writing a paper can seem intimidating at first. But putting together a good paper really just involves a combination of things you already know how to do. Here are some tips.
Playing organized sports can help girls do better off the field as well as on. Find out how.
How can you get ready to play your best season ever? Read these tips for teen athletes.
You've prepared for the game in almost every way possible: but now what should you eat? Read about performance foods, nutritional supplements, and more.
If you're having trouble choosing a sport, this article can help!
In a concussion, the brain shifts inside the skull. This can cause a sudden - but usually temporary - disruption in a person's ability to function properly and feel well. Here's what to do if you suspect a concussion.
Alex plays high school football, track, basketball, and lacrosse. He's had two concussions. Here, he talks about his experience and what he learned.
Winning is all that matters when you play sports, right? Not when that means you can't even enjoy the game. Read about how to handle sports pressure and competition.
Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to get a sports physical.
As long as people play sports, there will be concussions from time to time. Find out how to protect yourself and what to do if you get a concussion playing sports.
Playing hard doesn't have to mean getting hurt. The best way to ensure a long and injury-free athletic career is to play it safe from the start. Find out how.
Some people define good sportsmanship as treating the people that you play with and against as you'd like to be treated yourself. Learn more about what good sportsmanship is all about.
Is working out with weights safe for teens? The best way to build muscle tone and definition is to combine aerobic and flexibility exercises with the right kind of strength training.
People can get abscesses on the skin, under the skin, in a tooth, or even inside the body. Most abscesses are caused by infection, so it can help to know what to do. Find out in this article for teens.
BV is the most common vaginal infection. Although it's a mild infection, it can cause serious problems if it's not treated. Find out how to recognize BV and what to do about it in this article for teens.
Cellulitis is a skin infection that involves areas of tissue just below the skin's surface. It can affect any part of the body, but it's most common on exposed areas, such as the face, arms, or lower legs.
Cholera is an intestinal infection that mostly affects people in tropical regions. Find out more about cholera in this article for teens.
Cold sores (also known as fever blisters) are pretty common and lots of people get them. So what causes them and what can you do?
Most teens get between two and four colds each year. Read this article for the facts on colds and ways to feel better when you catch one.
This infectious disease can cause high fevers, headaches, rashes, and pain throughout the body. Find out what to do about dengue fever - and how to avoid it.
Nearly everybody gets diarrhea every once in a while, and it's usually caused by gastrointestinal infections. It's nothing to be embarrassed about. Read this article to learn more.
Undercooked burgers and unwashed produce are among the foods that can harbor E. coli bacteria and lead to infection and severe diarrhea. Here's how to protect yourself.
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain. Although encephalitis sounds scary, understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment can help you feel prepared to deal with it if you ever need to.
Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself.
Get the basics on how flu spreads and how to protect yourself.
Every year from October to May, millions of people across the United States come down with the flu. Get the facts on the flu - including how to feel better if you get it.
The germs that get into food and cause food poisoning are tiny, but can have a powerful effect on the body. Find out what to do if you get food poisoning - and how to prevent it.
Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). The hepatitis A vaccine has helped to make the infection rare in the United States.
Hepatitis B can move from one person to another through blood and other body fluids. For this reason, people usually get it through unprotected sex or by sharing needles.
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads through blood or other body fluids, and can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. The most common way people become infected is by sharing drug paraphernalia.
Does the thought of Lyme disease make you worry about enjoying the great outdoors? Here's some information to help you lower your risk for Lyme disease.
If someone gets mono, the virus stays in that person's body for life. The virus may surface from time to time and possibly infect someone else. Here are the facts on how mono works.
Impetigo is a skin infection caused by fairly common bacteria. Read this article to learn how to recognize it and what to do about it.
Lyme disease can be treated if it's caught early. Find out what causes it, how it's treated, and how to prevent it.
MRSA is a type of bacteria that the usual antibiotics can't tackle anymore. The good news is that there are some simple ways to protect yourself from being infected. Find out how.
You may be wondering what the deal is with meningitis because you've heard frightening stuff about meningitis outbreaks in the news.
The skin rash molluscum contagiosum isn't a big deal. Find out what to do about it in this article for teens.
Sometimes a bad cut that gets infected can lead to even worse things, like a bone infection called osteomyelitis. The easiest way to protect yourself is to practice good hygiene.
Paronychia is an infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail. Most of the time, it's not serious. Find out what causes it, what to do, and how to prevent it.
A peritonsillar abscess is an area of pus-filled tissue at the back of the mouth, next to one of the tonsils. Find out how it happens and what to do.
Conjunctivitis, commonly called pinkeye, is an inflammation of the tissue covering the eye and inner surface of the eyelid.
Pneumonia is a common lung infection that can usually be treated without a hospital stay.
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is when someone takes medicines every day to lower his or her chances of getting HIV.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a disease caused by a bacteria that is carried by certain types of ticks. Learn about the signs and symptoms of RMSF and tips for preventing infection in this article.
People often think of salmonellosis as food poisoning, but food is only one way the bacteria Salmonella can be spread.
If you've been waking up with headaches, feeling stuffy or congested, and experiencing swelling around your eyes, you may have sinusitis - an infection of the sinus air spaces found in the bones around the nose.
You might be wondering what smallpox is and whether you or anyone you know is at risk for getting it. Learn the facts.
This video shows what it's like to get a strep test.
Strep throat is a common infection that usually needs to be treated with antibiotics. Find out how to recognize the signs of strep throat and what to expect if you have it.
Swimmer's ear is an infection of the ear canal that can be caused by different types of bacteria or fungi. Find out how to prevent or treat it.
Tetanus is a bacterial infection that grows in a contaminated wound. Because it can be serious, it's important to get immunized. Find out more.
You wake up and your throat is swollen and you have a fever. Could it be tonsillitis? Find out what tonsillitis is, how to treat it, and how to prevent it.
Although toxic shock syndrome (TSS) can be serious, it's a very rare illness.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common reasons that teens visit a doctor. Learn about the symptoms of UTIs, how they're treated, and more in this article.
Most warts are easy to treat and are rarely cause for alarm. Read this article for more information on warts and how to get rid of them.
Find out what the experts have to say.
If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.
Get tips for fending off the flu in this article for teens.
Most teens get between two and four colds each year. Read this article for the facts on colds and ways to feel better when you catch one.
Get the basics on how flu spreads and how to protect yourself.
Every year from October to May, millions of people across the United States come down with the flu. Get the facts on the flu - including how to feel better if you get it.
Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself.
If you've been waking up with headaches, feeling stuffy or congested, and experiencing swelling around your eyes, you may have sinusitis - an infection of the sinus air spaces found in the bones around the nose.
Doctors recommend that all teens get vaccinated against the flu. Here are the facts on flu vaccines.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Get tips for fending off the flu in this article for teens.
Often, tonsils and adenoids are surgically removed at the same time. So, what are adenoids exactly?
Cold sores (also known as fever blisters) are pretty common and lots of people get them. So what causes them and what can you do?
Most teens get between two and four colds each year. Read this article for the facts on colds and ways to feel better when you catch one.
Get the basics on how flu spreads and how to protect yourself.
Every year from October to May, millions of people across the United States come down with the flu. Get the facts on the flu - including how to feel better if you get it.
Lice aren't dangerous, but they do spread from person to person easily. They can also be hard to get rid of. Find out how to prevent lice -- and what to do if someone you know has them.
If someone gets mono, the virus stays in that person's body for life. The virus may surface from time to time and possibly infect someone else. Here are the facts on how mono works.
A toenail is ingrown when it begins to break through and grow into the soft skin of the toe. Find out more about ingrown toenails.
It's sometimes called "the kissing disease," but kissing is just one of the ways that someone can catch mono.
Conjunctivitis, commonly called pinkeye, is an inflammation of the tissue covering the eye and inner surface of the eyelid.
If you've been waking up with headaches, feeling stuffy or congested, and experiencing swelling around your eyes, you may have sinusitis - an infection of the sinus air spaces found in the bones around the nose.
Everybody's heard of tonsils, but not everyone knows what tonsils do in the body or why they may need to be removed. Find out here.
You wake up and your throat is swollen and you have a fever. Could it be tonsillitis? Find out what tonsillitis is, how to treat it, and how to prevent it.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common reasons that teens visit a doctor. Learn about the symptoms of UTIs, how they're treated, and more in this article.
Find out what the experts have to say.
People can get abscesses on the skin, under the skin, in a tooth, or even inside the body. Most abscesses are caused by infection, so it can help to know what to do. Find out in this article for teens.
Although the name athlete's foot sounds funny, if you have this skin infection, you're probably not laughing. The good news is that it is generally easy to treat.
Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself.
Jock itch is a pretty common fungal infection of the groin and upper thighs. It is generally easy to treat - and avoid - by following a few simple steps.
Pityriasis versicolor is a rash caused by a fungus. It can appear over the chest, shoulders, and back, and is a common cause of skin rashes in teens.
Ringworm isn't a worm at all - it's the name for a type of fungal skin infection. The good news is that ringworm is easy to treat.
What are vaginal yeast infections? Can anything be done to prevent them?
Find out what the experts have to say.
BV is the most common vaginal infection. Although it's a mild infection, it can cause serious problems if it's not treated. Find out how to recognize BV and what to do about it in this article for teens.
Chlamydia is an STD that often has no symptoms, so lots of people can have it and not know it. Read this article to learn how to protect yourself.
Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself.
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). There's no cure for genital herpes, but medicines can help control it.
Genital warts usually are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which also can lead to cervical cancer and other types of cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent HPV infection.
The STD gonorrhea can be very dangerous if it's not treated, even in someone who has mild or no symptoms. For information about how to protect yourself, read this article.
There is no cure for AIDS, which is why prevention is so important. Get the facts on HIV/AIDS, as well as how it affects the body and is treated, in this article.
Hepatitis, an infectious liver disease, is more contagious than HIV. Find out about the different types of hepatitis.
Hepatitis B can move from one person to another through blood and other body fluids. For this reason, people usually get it through unprotected sex or by sharing needles.
AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is a disease where the body is unable to fight off many infectious diseases as it normally could. Find out how AIDS is spread and how to protect yourself against it.
Often the only way to know if someone is infected with HIV is through testing. Here are the facts on what's involved in getting tested — and who should get tested for HIV and why.
Pelvic inflammatory disease, sometimes called PID, is an infection of the fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, or ovaries. Learn how to protect yourself.
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is when someone takes medicines every day to lower his or her chances of getting HIV.
Pubic lice, or "crabs," are tiny insects that usually spread through sex.
You've probably heard lots of discouraging news about sexually transmitted diseases. The good news is that STDs can be prevented. Find out how to protect yourself.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Early treatment can cure it and prevent long-term problems.
Trichomoniasis is a curable disease that can be passed from one person to another during sex. The good news is that it can be prevented. Read about how to protect yourself.
People can get abscesses on the skin, under the skin, in a tooth, or even inside the body. Most abscesses are caused by infection, so it can help to know what to do. Find out in this article for teens.
Although the name athlete's foot sounds funny, if you have this skin infection, you're probably not laughing. The good news is that it is generally easy to treat.
Bedbugs are in the news because of recent infestations. Learn the telltale signs of these irritating pests - and how to deal with a bite.
Cellulitis is a skin infection that involves areas of tissue just below the skin's surface. It can affect any part of the body, but it's most common on exposed areas, such as the face, arms, or lower legs.
Cold sores (also known as fever blisters) are pretty common and lots of people get them. So what causes them and what can you do?
Eczema is a common skin problem among teens. If you have eczema, read this article to find out more about it and how you can deal with the skin stress.
Lice aren't dangerous, but they do spread from person to person easily. They can also be hard to get rid of. Find out how to prevent lice -- and what to do if someone you know has them.
Does the thought of Lyme disease make you worry about enjoying the great outdoors? Here's some information to help you lower your risk for Lyme disease.
Impetigo is a skin infection caused by fairly common bacteria. Read this article to learn how to recognize it and what to do about it.
Jock itch is a pretty common fungal infection of the groin and upper thighs. It is generally easy to treat - and avoid - by following a few simple steps.
Lyme disease can be treated if it's caught early. Find out what causes it, how it's treated, and how to prevent it.
The skin rash molluscum contagiosum isn't a big deal. Find out what to do about it in this article for teens.
Paronychia is an infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail. Most of the time, it's not serious. Find out what causes it, what to do, and how to prevent it.
Pityriasis versicolor is a rash caused by a fungus. It can appear over the chest, shoulders, and back, and is a common cause of skin rashes in teens.
Ringworm isn't a worm at all - it's the name for a type of fungal skin infection. The good news is that ringworm is easy to treat.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a disease caused by a bacteria that is carried by certain types of ticks. Learn about the signs and symptoms of RMSF and tips for preventing infection in this article.
You might be wondering what smallpox is and whether you or anyone you know is at risk for getting it. Learn the facts.
Although toxic shock syndrome (TSS) can be serious, it's a very rare illness.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Nearly everybody gets diarrhea every once in a while, and it's usually caused by gastrointestinal infections. It's nothing to be embarrassed about. Read this article to learn more.
Undercooked burgers and unwashed produce are among the foods that can harbor E. coli bacteria and lead to infection and severe diarrhea. Here's how to protect yourself.
The germs that get into food and cause food poisoning are tiny, but can have a powerful effect on the body. Find out what to do if you get food poisoning - and how to prevent it.
People often think of salmonellosis as food poisoning, but food is only one way the bacteria Salmonella can be spread.
Lots of different problems can cause similar kinds of stomach pain - not all of them related to the digestive system. Here are some clues about what could be going on.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Adolescent medicine doctors are specialists who have extra training in the medical and emotional issues that many teens face.
You deserve medical care from someone who helps you feel comfortable and understood. Get tips on finding the best doctor for you.
If you need mental health care but don't think you can afford it, you're not alone. Get tips on finding low-cost or free mental health care in this article for teens.
Missing out on shots puts you at more serious risk than you might think. That one little "ouch" moment protects you from some major health problems.
You're probably used to answering your doctor's questions - not asking your own. But it's your body, so you should be able to ask your doctor questions about anything you'd like. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to get a sports physical.
Strokes are more common in older adults, but teens can have one too. This "brain attack" happens when blood flow to the brain stops, even for a second.
There's a lot more to taking care of your teeth than breath mints and mouth sprays. Read this article to learn the facts on flossing, how to give plaque the brush-off, and much more.
Even if you're lucky enough to have perfect vision, taking care of and protecting your eyes is vital to keeping your peepers perfect. Learn all about how to take care of your baby blues (or browns or greens) in this article.
Figuring out health care is part of becoming an independent adult. Here are tips for teens on what that involves, and how to choose your own doctor.
Your best resource for health information and advice is your doctor - the person who knows you, your medical history, and accurate medical information to answer your questions.
Therapy is part of the treatment for most people diagnosed with ADHD. This article is for teens who want to know what to expect from therapy and how it works for ADHD.
Most teens with diabetes should switch to an adult health care provider when they're between 18 and 21. Here's how you can do that.
Knowing what to expect with surgery before you get to the hospital can make you less anxious about your surgical experience - and less stress helps a person recover faster.
Scheduled for a hospital stay? Knowing what to expect can make it a little easier.
Use this printable sheet to help manage your asthma.
Use this weekly diary to keep a record of your asthma symptoms, peak flows, and the amount of medicine taken.
If you have diabetes, you can use this printable sheet to record your blood glucose levels.
Use these breakfast planning ideas to select healthy foods that satisfy your taste buds and get you on your way fast.
Blood might look the same and do the same job, but tiny cell markers mean one person's body can reject another person's blood. Find out how blood types work in this article for teens.
Because EHRs improve how well your doctors talk to each other and coordinate your treatment, they can enhance your medical care. Get the facts on electronic health records.
Taking charge of your own health care is a big step, and it can be a little overwhelming. Here's a quick crash course on insurance for teens.
Health insurance has a language all its own. This article for teens explains what some key terms mean.
You're probably used to answering your doctor's questions - not asking your own. But it's your body, so you should be able to ask your doctor questions about anything you'd like. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Each time you hop up on a doctor's exam table, somebody makes a note in your medical records. There may come a time when you need your medical information, so find out how to get it and how it's protected.
Medicine doesn’t cure ADHD. But it does help boost a person's ability to pay attention, slow down, and have more self-control. This article for teens has details on how ADHD medicines help.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Learn what the birth control patch is, how well it works, and more.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Read this article to learn what birth control pills are, how well they work, and more.
A woman places the birth control ring in her vagina where it slowly releases hormones into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Read this article about the birth control shot and find out how it works - and how well.
A basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a group of blood tests that provide doctors with clues about how the body is working. Find out why doctors do this and what's involved for teens.
This common blood test helps doctors gather information about a person's blood cells and how they're working. Find out why doctors do this test and what's involved for teens.
This group of blood tests provides doctors with clues about how the body is working. Find out why doctors do these tests and what's involved for teens.
This test measures the speed at which red blood cells fall to the bottom of an upright glass test tube. Find out why doctors do it and what's involved for teens.
If your liver isn't working properly, it can affect your overall health. Find out why doctors do liver function tests and what's involved for teens.
A magnesium test looks at levels of the mineral magnesium in a person's blood. Find out why doctors do this test and what's involved for teens.
A phosphorus test looks at levels of phosphorus in a person's blood. Find out why doctors do this test and what's involved for teens.
About 5 million people a year get blood transfusions in the United States. This article explains why people need them and who donates the blood used.
Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells. Find out how chemo works and what to expect when getting treatment.
Find out what you can do if you think you or a friend has a drug or alcohol addiction - from recognizing the warning signs to suggestions to help you stay clean.
Emergency contraception is a way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex; for example, if a condom breaks or slips off during sex. It is also available to teens who are forced to have unprotected sex.
Get the basics on how flu spreads and how to protect yourself.
Medicines can cause problems if they get into the water supply or the wrong hands. Find out how to dispose of old or unused meds safely in this article for teens.
Getting help with emotions or stress is the same as getting help with a medical problem like asthma or diabetes. This article explains how therapy works and how it can help with problems.
The HPV vaccine can help protect against the virus that causes genital warts and may lead to some kinds of cancer. Find out more in this article for teens.
Two different types of medicines are used to treat asthma: long-term control medicines and quick-relief medicines. Read about how they work, and why people might need to take them.
Taking responsibility for your own health care means understanding things like prescriptions. Read our tips for teens on filling a prescription.
Need to get a blood test? An MRI? These videos show what happens in 10 of the most common medical tests.
Taking medicines is a major part of staying healthy if you have diabetes because they help you keep your blood sugar levels under control.
Find out what the experts have to say.
This medical treatment helps people with kidney failure. It can be done at home, often overnight, to take over the kidneys' job of filtering blood. Find out more in this article for teens.
Physical therapy helps people get back to full strength and movement - and manage pain - in key parts of the body after an illness or injury.
More than half of all people with cancer are treated with radiation therapy. Get the facts on radiation therapy, including what it is, what to expect, and how to cope with side effects.
Tips and advice for teens on refilling a prescription.
A splint is a support device that keeps an injured area from moving. Doctors often use splints to hold bones and joints in place so they can heal after a fracture.
If your doctor prescribed steroids as part of your treatment for an illness, don't worry. It's not the illegal, doping scandal kind of steroid. Get the details in this article for teens.
Opioids are very good at controlling pain, but there are risks to taking them. If you've been prescribed a medicine that contains an opioid, find out how to use it safely.
Medicines can cure, stop, or prevent disease; ease symptoms; or help in the diagnosis of illnesses. This article describes different types of medications and offers tips on taking them.
How well a wound heals depends on where it is on the body and what caused it – as well as how well someone cares for the wound at home. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
If your doctor moves, can you ask for a copy of your medical records? Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Visit our Asthma Center for information and advice on managing and living with asthma.
Atrial septal defect, or ASD, is a heart defect that some people are born with. Most ASDs are diagnosed and treated successfully with few or no complications.
Blood might look the same and do the same job, but tiny cell markers mean one person's body can reject another person's blood. Find out how blood types work in this article for teens.
Visit our Cancer Center for teens to get information and advice on treating and coping with cancer.
People who have celiac disease, a disorder that makes their bodies react to gluten, can't eat certain kinds of foods. Find out more - including what foods are safe and where to find them.
Cerebral palsy is one of the most common developmental disabilities in the United States. It affects a person's ability to move and coordinate body movements.
When someone has coarctation of the aorta, that person's aorta (the major blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart to the body) is narrowed at some point.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that causes the body to produce mucus that's extremely thick and sticky. It mainly affects the lungs and the pancreas, causing serious breathing and digestive problems.
If you suffer from a chronic illness, you know it can be anything but fun. But you can become better informed and more involved in your care. Here are tips to help you deal.
Our Diabetes Center provides information and advice for teens about treating and living with diabetes.
A dwarf is a short-statured person whose adult height is 4 feet 10 inches or under. Find out what happens when a person has dwarfism and why some people are born with it.
Emily was adopted from Russia, where she was born with a type of dwarfism. In this video, she talks about her life philosophy and how she overcame the many hurdles she faced.
Seizures are a common symptom of epilepsy, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Learn all about epilepsy, including what to do if you see someone having a seizure.
There is no cure for AIDS, which is why prevention is so important. Get the facts on HIV/AIDS, as well as how it affects the body and is treated, in this article.
Hearing impairment occurs when there's a problem with or damage to one or more parts of the ear. Find out its causes and what can be done to help correct it.
Hemodialysis is the type of kidney dialysis that doctors use most to take over the kidneys' job of filtering the blood. Find out more in this article for teens.
Inflammatory bowel disease is an ongoing illness caused by an inflammation of the intestines. There are two kinds of IBD: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Sometimes, the kidneys can't do their job properly. In teens, kidney disease is usually due to infections, structural issues, glomerulonephritis, or nephrotic syndrome.
Lupus is a disease that affects the immune system. Learn how lupus is treated, signs and symptoms, how to support a friend who has it, and more.
This medical treatment helps people with kidney failure. It can be done at home, often overnight, to take over the kidneys' job of filtering blood. Find out more in this article for teens.
In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the ovaries produce higher than normal amounts of certain hormones, which can interfere with egg development and release. Learn how doctors diagnose and treat PCOS.
You're probably used to answering your doctor's questions - not asking your own. But it's your body, so you should be able to ask your doctor questions about anything you'd like. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Sickle cell crisis is when sickled cells clog small blood vessels, causing extreme pain and other symptoms. Learn more, including how to help prevent a crisis and what to do if one does happen.
Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder that makes red blood cells change shape and cause health problems. Find out more in this article for teens.
Steven was diagnosed with SMA when he was 3. Here's a look at his life today and why he says, "When someone tells you you can't do something, don't be afraid to try something new."
Figuring out health care is part of becoming an independent adult. Here are tips for teens on what that involves, and how to choose your own doctor.
Tourette syndrome affects the body's brain and nervous system by causing tics - repeated, uncontrollable movements or involuntary vocal sounds.
At a certain point, you'll no longer be able to see your childhood doctor. Here are tips for teens on making a smooth switch to adult sickle cell care.
Turner syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects about 1 in every 2,500 girls. Learn more about the condition and how doctors treat it.
Ventricular septal defect, or VSD, is a heart condition that a few teens can have. Find out what it is, how it happens, and what doctors do to correct it.
When one or more parts of the eye or brain that are needed to process images become diseased or damaged, severe or total loss of vision can occur. Read all about visual impairment.
Visit our Asthma Center for information and advice on managing and living with asthma.
What makes people happy? How can you boost your own happiness? This site has information and activities based on the science of positive psychology to help you succeed, make a difference, handle difficult emotions, and build good relationship skills.
Visit our Cancer Center for teens to get information and advice on treating and coping with cancer.
Our Diabetes Center provides information and advice for teens about treating and living with diabetes.
Get the basics on how flu spreads and how to protect yourself.
Visit our nutrition and fitness center for teens to get information and advice on food, exercise, and sports.
This site has tips on things like preparing for a new season, handling sports pressure, staying motivated, and dealing with injuries.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
You may know that you should eat 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Here are some tips on making that happen.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Your parents were right to make you drink milk when you were little. It's loaded with calcium, a mineral vital for building strong bones and teeth.
Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood. The body needs some cholesterol, but too much can be a problem. Discover more about cholesterol in this article for teens.
We all know the importance of eating well. But how are you supposed to do so when your schedule is so demanding you're never at home? Find out how to make healthy food choices on the go.
Some of the best and most delicious foods have loads of fiber. Find out how to get your fill of fiber!
From all you hear, you'd think fat and calories are really bad for you, but we all need a certain amount of them in our diets. Find out the truth about fat and calories.
Look at any packaged food and you'll see the food label. This nutrition facts label gives the lowdown on everything from calories to cholesterol. Read more about food labels.
Lots of us don't realize we're eating too much because we've become so used to large portions. This article for teens helps you take control of your plate.
Healthy snacks are essential for busy teens. Find out how eating nutritious snacks throughout the day can keep your energy level high and your mind alert.
You don't need to be a dietitian to figure out how to make healthy food choices. Before grabbing a shopping cart and heading for the aisles, read this article to make grocery shopping a snap.
Vitamins and minerals are nutrients that the body needs to work properly. They boost the immune system, promote normal growth and development, and help cells and organs do their jobs.
See what the experts have to say.
People feel and do their best when they experience at least 3 times as many positive emotions as negative ones. This article offers ideas on how to build these powerful emotions.
Many people think of guys as being carefree when it comes to appearance. But guys spend plenty of time in front of the mirror. And some worry just as much as girls do about their looks.
Sometimes our ideas and beliefs stand in the way of asking for help. Here are ideas for teens on how to get past 5 common barriers to getting help.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
What makes people happy? How can you boost your own happiness? This site has information and activities based on the science of positive psychology to help you succeed, make a difference, handle difficult emotions, and build good relationship skills.
When your body changes, so can your image of yourself. Find out how your body image affects your self-esteem and what you can do.
Find out what the experts have to say!
Do you wonder why you fly off the handle so easily sometimes? Do you wish you knew healthier ways to express yourself when you're steamed? Check out this article for help with dealing with anger.
If a person is struggling with extra weight, it can add to the emotional ups and downs of being a teen. Get some tips on coping here.
We've all eaten a whole bag of chips out of boredom or while cramming for a big test. Learn more about emotional eating, and how to manage it, in this article for teens.
Getting help with emotions or stress is the same as getting help with a medical problem like asthma or diabetes. This article explains how therapy works and how it can help with problems.
We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.
Rejection hurts. But it's impossible to avoid. Life is about going for things. And when we do, rejection is always a possibility.
Shyness is extremely common, especially among teens. But lots of mild to moderate shyness melts away with practice and familiarity, making social situations easier and easier to handle each time.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
Losing weight can feel like a challenge, no matter how much we want it. It can sometimes seem like our minds are working against us. That's where weight-management counselors can help.
Yoga can help reduce stress because it promotes relaxation, which is the natural opposite of stress. These tips for teens can help you tap into yoga's stress-reducing benefits.
Breathing and meditation techniques can have subtle but powerful effects on everything from stress to sports performance. Try these four techniques.
The sun is shining - why not dust off your bike and go for a ride? Before you hit the trail, though, read these tips on the right type of bike and gear you will need.
Finding it hard to fit in fitness? Try these simple exercises for teens.
Keeping an exercise log is a great way to stay motivated and reach exercise goals.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
Injuries can be common, and runners should always be aware of their surroundings. To keep things safe while running, follow these tips.
Is working out with weights safe for teens? The best way to build muscle tone and definition is to combine aerobic and flexibility exercises with the right kind of strength training.
You may have heard mixed things about stretching before working out. Here are the cold, hard facts on warming up, stretching, and cooling down.
Yoga is a great way to take a study break because it refocuses and re-energizes both the body and mind. This routine uses poses that work for teens.
These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.
Unwind after a long day at school with this yoga routine for teens.
Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.
Looking for a workout program that's easy to learn, requires little or no equipment, and soothes your soul while toning your body? Read about yoga - and watch our slideshow for some easy poses to try.
Acanthosis nigricans is a darkening and thickening of the skin that can be a sign of other medical conditions. Find out more.
Asthma is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe. Learn all about asthma here.
Blount disease is a growth disorder that affects the bones of the lower leg. It causes bowing of the leg below the knee, which gets worse if it's not treated.
One of the biggest questions guys and girls have as they grow and develop is whether they're the right weight. One place to start is by learning about body mass index, or BMI.
Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood. The body needs some cholesterol, but too much can be a problem. Discover more about cholesterol in this article for teens.
Sleep problems can keep some teens awake at night even when they want to sleep. If that sounds like you, find out what you can do.
Depression is very common. For more information about depression and feeling better, check out this article.
High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is more common in adults, but it can happen at any age. Learn what it is and how to treat it.
Metabolic syndrome is a signal that someone could be on the road to serious health problems. Find out more in this article for teens.
In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the ovaries produce higher than normal amounts of certain hormones, which can interfere with egg development and release. Learn how doctors diagnose and treat PCOS.
A good, stable connection at your hip joint is what lets you walk, run, make that jump shot, and shake it on the dance floor. But in some teens – particularly those who are obese – the hip joint is weakened by slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE).
Teens with type 2 diabetes have to pay close attention to what they eat and do.
One of the biggest questions guys and girls have is whether they're the right weight. Because the body is growing and changing so much during adolescence, it can be tough to answer this question.
A couple of pounds of extra body fat are not a health risk for most people. But when people are severely overweight, it can cause health problems.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
Surprisingly, summer can be a time when people gain weight, not lose it. These tips help you stay on track.
The name sounds reassuring - everyone knows that anything toxic is bad for you. But detox diets aren't good for teens. Find out why.
Sometimes our ideas and beliefs stand in the way of asking for help. Here are ideas for teens on how to get past 5 common barriers to getting help.
Binge eating is a type of eating disorder. This article for teens explains what it is, how to recognize it, and how to get help.
We all know the importance of eating well. But how are you supposed to do so when your schedule is so demanding you're never at home? Find out how to make healthy food choices on the go.
There are several different types of weight loss surgeries. One type is gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy. Find out what's involved and who gets it in this article for teens.
Lots of people are unhappy with their present weight, but aren't sure how to change it - or even if they need to. Get the facts on weight loss here.
Lots of us don't realize we're eating too much because we've become so used to large portions. This article for teens helps you take control of your plate.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.
Healthy snacks are essential for busy teens. Find out how eating nutritious snacks throughout the day can keep your energy level high and your mind alert.
Here are some practical, everyday tips on making exercise and healthy eating work for you instead of feeling like it's the other way around.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
With all the focus on dieting, how do you figure out what's healthy and what isn't? Read this article to get the basics on dieting.
Losing weight can feel like a challenge, no matter how much we want it. It can sometimes seem like our minds are working against us. That's where weight-management counselors can help.
Weight loss surgery works. But it's serious stuff, both physically and emotionally. Find out about two weight loss surgery options for teens.
One of the biggest questions guys and girls have is whether they're the right weight. Because the body is growing and changing so much during adolescence, it can be tough to answer this question.
Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say!
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
See what the experts have to say.
This fast, easy dinner recipe is great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This low-calorie vegetarian salsa makes a great after-school snack.
This easy recipe makes a nice change from oatmeal or cold cereal. It's filling and good for vegetarians and people trying to lose weight -- or anyone trying to eat healthy.
Chicken soup can be high in salt, but this "from scratch" recipe allows you to control the amount of salt (and fat) in your soup. Plus, it's easy to make!
This tasty soup is high in nutrients and low in calories. It's great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This recipe can be made as either a vegetarian or non-vegetarian soup. It's a great option for people trying to lose weight.
This vegetarian recipe makes a good weekend lunch for the entire family or a party snack to share with a group. It's suitable for teens who are trying to lose weight.
This smoothie makes a satisfying snack for people trying to lose weight, vegetarians, babysitters looking for kid-friendly ideas -- or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
One of the biggest questions guys and girls have as they grow and develop is whether they're the right weight. One place to start is by learning about body mass index, or BMI.
Keeping an exercise log is a great way to stay motivated and reach exercise goals.
Use these breakfast planning ideas to select healthy foods that satisfy your taste buds and get you on your way fast.
Use these tips to make your favorite lunch line choices healthier.
These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.
People feel and do their best when they experience at least 3 times as many positive emotions as negative ones. This article offers ideas on how to build these powerful emotions.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good, it can be good for you. These 3 steps can help you start feeling more appreciative of the good things in your life.
Emotional awareness (knowing what we feel and why) helps us learn about ourselves and build good relationships. Here are 5 ways to get more in touch with your emotions.
We all mess up at times. An apology tells someone that we're sorry for the hurt we caused — even if we didn't do it on purpose. But does an apology fix everything? And how should you handle it if someone apologizes to you? Find out here.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
What makes people happy? How can you boost your own happiness? This site has information and activities based on the science of positive psychology to help you succeed, make a difference, handle difficult emotions, and build good relationship skills.
Choosing your mood means being in control of it instead of feeling like it's controlling you. Here are tips on how to create the right mood to help you succeed at what you're trying to do.
Confidence means believing in yourself and in your abilities – not in an arrogant way, but in a realistic, secure way.
You don't have to be born confident: Confidence is something you can build. Not sure where to start? Try these exercises.
Just as IQ is a way of being academically smart, emotional intelligence (EQ) is a way of being people-smart. But unlike IQ, we can work on improving our EQ. Here are some tips.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good. Focusing on what's good in our lives can also be good for us. Find out how in this article for teens.
Feeling grateful for what we have (instead of obsessing about what we don't) can help us get more out of life. This worksheet is designed to get you thinking about gratitude.
Research shows that just 10% of happiness depends on a person's situation. We actually have more control over happiness than we might think. Find out how.
This quiz can give you insight into things that might affect your self-esteem so you can learn how to build and protect it.
People who do a good job of managing emotions know that it's healthy to express their feelings, but that it matters how they express them. Get tips in this article for teens.
Optimists see the good in things -- and science has discovered that optimists can do better in life. The good news is, even pessimists can be more optimistic. Find out how.
Positivity is fun to practice – as well as a great way to learn more about yourself. This worksheet is designed to help you explore 10 common positive emotions.
Rejection hurts. But it's impossible to avoid. Life is about going for things. And when we do, rejection is always a possibility.
Everyone gets rejected at some point. Get some insight into your coping skills by taking this quiz for teens.
This meditation helps us feel connected to and grateful for the people in our lives. Listen as we guide you through this meditation.
Breathing exercises help us slow down and relax. Let our audio recordings coach you through 3 simple breathing exercises: finger-count breathing, smiling breath, and belly breathing.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
In this video series, teens talk about their experiences with bullying, stress, family life, managing health problems, staying fit, eating right — and what it means to be in love.
Scientists are learning that positive emotions have a powerful effect on our brains and bodies, helping us feel, and act, our best. Let this article help you tap into the power of positive emotions.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
Emotions help us relate to other people, know what we want, and make choices. Even "negative" emotions are useful. Find out how to understand emotions and use them effectively.
Many people think of guys as being carefree when it comes to appearance. But guys spend plenty of time in front of the mirror. And some worry just as much as girls do about their looks.
For some people, worries about appearance become extreme and upsetting, interfering with their lives, a condition called body dysmorphic disorder.
When your body changes, so can your image of yourself. Find out how your body image affects your self-esteem and what you can do.
If a person is struggling with extra weight, it can add to the emotional ups and downs of being a teen. Get some tips on coping here.
Your body's changing - and if you've ever felt out of step with it, you're not alone. Find out how to deal with body changes and feelings in this article.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
Lots of images may come to mind when you think of plastic surgery. This special type of surgery involves a person's appearance and ability to function.
Vitiligo is a loss of skin pigment that causes white spots or patches to appear on the skin. It's not medically dangerous, but it can affect a person's appearance. Find out more.
These 5 tips can help you disagree with someone in a constructive way - without losing it or shying away from how you feel.
Stressed out about speaking or performing in front of people? These tips can help you cope.
We all face grief at some point. Here are 5 ideas that might help you cope when someone you love has died.
We all get worried or nervous about things. Here are 5 ways to control anxiety.
It's important to take action against depression - it doesn't just go away on its own. In addition to getting professional help, here are 5 ways to feel better.
Everyday stressors have a way of piling up if we don't keep them in check. Adding these 5 simple actions to your regular routine can help you avoid that "bogged down by stress" feeling.
If shyness is putting a hold on your social life, here are 5 ideas that might help.
There's no quick fix for ADHD. But taking medicine and working with counselors can help. This article for teens has tips for handling school and relationships.
Sometimes our ideas and beliefs stand in the way of asking for help. Here are ideas for teens on how to get past 5 common barriers to getting help.
Are you on the outside looking in or the inside wanting out? Find out how to deal with cliques in this article for teens.
About half of people who have been raped know the person who attacked them. This article explains what date rape is, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you've been raped.
Find out what you can do if you think you or a friend has a drug or alcohol addiction - from recognizing the warning signs to suggestions to help you stay clean.
Bullying has everyone worried, not just the people on its receiving end. Learn about dealing with bullies, including tips on how to stand up for yourself or a friend.
If a person is struggling with extra weight, it can add to the emotional ups and downs of being a teen. Get some tips on coping here.
If you suffer from a chronic illness, you know it can be anything but fun. But you can become better informed and more involved in your care. Here are tips to help you deal.
Emily was adopted from Russia, where she was born with a type of dwarfism. In this video, she talks about her life philosophy and how she overcame the many hurdles she faced.
Stressed out by your parents' money worries? Check out our tips for handling tough times.
If you need mental health care but don't think you can afford it, you're not alone. Get tips on finding low-cost or free mental health care in this article for teens.
If you've been cutting and you want to stop, here are some approaches that might help you.
Breaking up means having an awkward or difficult conversation. Here are some ideas on what to say and how to say it - and why it's best to break up in person.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Mindfulness helps people do their best at things, whether that's focusing on a task or getting along with others. This article for teens has details on practicing mindfulness so you can make it work for you.
Being mindful helps people do better in just about every part of life, like focusing on homework or feeling less stressed out. This article for teens has 5 exercises to practice building mindfulness skills.
Even if you're having a bad day, you don't feel popular, or you're having trouble at school, your pet loves you. So losing a pet can be heartbreaking. This article outlines some ways to cope.
Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature — but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground. Find out how to make the right choices for you.
Rape is forced, unwanted sexual intercourse. Rape is about power, not sex. Both men and women of any age can be raped. Find out what you can do and how to take care of yourself after a rape.
Rejection hurts. But it's impossible to avoid. Life is about going for things. And when we do, rejection is always a possibility.
Everyone gets rejected at some point. Get some insight into your coping skills by taking this quiz for teens.
Just like other kinds of bullying, sexual bullying is intended to hurt, offend, or intimidate another person. Find out how to recognize sexual bullying and harassment and what to do.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
If you feel depressed, you need to reach out for help and support. Read our tips for teens on talking to parents about depression.
We get lots of comments about our cutting articles. Because many of our readers' suggestions and comments are so helpful, we decided to put a few on our site.
If you just learned you're pregnant, you're not alone. You probably wonder how to tell your parents and how they'll react. Read our article for some tips.
Everyone feels a little nervous and stressed before a test. And a touch of nervous anticipation can actually help keep you at peak performance. But for some people, this normal anxiety is more intense.
Losing weight can feel like a challenge, no matter how much we want it. It can sometimes seem like our minds are working against us. That's where weight-management counselors can help.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Yoga can help reduce stress because it promotes relaxation, which is the natural opposite of stress. These tips for teens can help you tap into yoga's stress-reducing benefits.
Breathing and meditation techniques can have subtle but powerful effects on everything from stress to sports performance. Try these four techniques.
These 5 tips can help you disagree with someone in a constructive way - without losing it or shying away from how you feel.
Abuse can take many forms. This article talks about recognizing abuse, its effects, and what someone who is being abused can do.
We all mess up at times. An apology tells someone that we're sorry for the hurt we caused — even if we didn't do it on purpose. But does an apology fix everything? And how should you handle it if someone apologizes to you? Find out here.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
Coming out (or not) is a personal choice that depends on you and your situation. Learn more in this article for teens.
Alcoholism causes anguish not only for the person who drinks, but for everyone who is involved with that person. But there are things you can do to help cope with the problems alcoholism creates in families.
If you're dealing with your parents' divorce, it may seem hard, but it is possible to cope and have a good family life in spite of the changes divorce can bring.
Stressed out by your parents' money worries? Check out our tips for handling tough times.
People who do a good job of managing emotions know that it's healthy to express their feelings, but that it matters how they express them. Get tips in this article for teens.
Because everyone's situation is different, there are no easy answers to accepting a stepparent. But here are some ideas to help you deal.
If you feel depressed, you need to reach out for help and support. Read our tips for teens on talking to parents about depression.
Whether it's an everyday issue like schoolwork or an emergency situation, these tips can help you improve communications with your parents and other adults.
In this video, teens talk about living with parents and siblings -- the things they argue about and how they get along.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
Unwind after a long day at school with this yoga routine for teens.
Find out what the experts have to say.
When your sibling has a serious illness, you may find yourself juggling some pretty intense and confusing emotions. Here are some ways to take care of yourself during this stressful time.
Part of being a teen is developing your own identity -one that is separate from the identities of your parents. Read about why you and your parents seem to be constantly at odds.
We all face grief at some point. Here are 5 ideas that might help you cope when someone you love has died.
It's important to take action against depression - it doesn't just go away on its own. In addition to getting professional help, here are 5 ways to feel better.
All over the world, people are staying home due to coronavirus (COVID-19). Social distancing is something we all can do to make a big difference. It's not easy, but these tips can help.
It can be hard to understand, but people who cut themselves sometimes do it because it actually makes them feel better. They are overflowing with emotions - like sadness, depression, or anger - that they have trouble expressing.
If someone close to you has died, you probably feel overwhelmed with grief. Read about some things that might help you cope.
Depression is very common. For more information about depression and feeling better, check out this article.
Getting help with emotions or stress is the same as getting help with a medical problem like asthma or diabetes. This article explains how therapy works and how it can help with problems.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that affects some people and appears at the same time each year.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
We all feel overwhelmed by difficult emotions or situations sometimes. Here are the warning signs of suicide and ways to get help.
Severe depression can cloud a person's thinking and lead some people to think that life isn't worth living. But severe depression can be treated. Find out what to do and how to get help in this article for teens.
Because of all the changes taking place in your life, you may feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster. Find out more about bad moods and why you have them.
There's no one reason why people get depressed - many different things can play a role. Find out more about the things that can trigger depression.
People feel and do their best when they experience at least 3 times as many positive emotions as negative ones. This article offers ideas on how to build these powerful emotions.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good, it can be good for you. These 3 steps can help you start feeling more appreciative of the good things in your life.
We all get worried or nervous about things. Here are 5 ways to control anxiety.
Everyday stressors have a way of piling up if we don't keep them in check. Adding these 5 simple actions to your regular routine can help you avoid that "bogged down by stress" feeling.
If shyness is putting a hold on your social life, here are 5 ideas that might help.
Many people think of guys as being carefree when it comes to appearance. But guys spend plenty of time in front of the mirror. And some worry just as much as girls do about their looks.
Choosing your mood means being in control of it instead of feeling like it's controlling you. Here are tips on how to create the right mood to help you succeed at what you're trying to do.
Do you wonder why you fly off the handle so easily sometimes? Do you wish you knew healthier ways to express yourself when you're steamed? Check out this article for help with dealing with anger.
If someone close to you has died, you probably feel overwhelmed with grief. Read about some things that might help you cope.
We've all eaten a whole bag of chips out of boredom or while cramming for a big test. Learn more about emotional eating, and how to manage it, in this article for teens.
Just as IQ is a way of being academically smart, emotional intelligence (EQ) is a way of being people-smart. But unlike IQ, we can work on improving our EQ. Here are some tips.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good. Focusing on what's good in our lives can also be good for us. Find out how in this article for teens.
Feeling grateful for what we have (instead of obsessing about what we don't) can help us get more out of life. This worksheet is designed to get you thinking about gratitude.
Whether you feel confused, worried, scared, or excited, you'll want to know how your life will change, what you can do to have a healthy baby.
We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.
Optimists see the good in things -- and science has discovered that optimists can do better in life. The good news is, even pessimists can be more optimistic. Find out how.
Rejection hurts. But it's impossible to avoid. Life is about going for things. And when we do, rejection is always a possibility.
Everyone gets rejected at some point. Get some insight into your coping skills by taking this quiz for teens.
Shyness is extremely common, especially among teens. But lots of mild to moderate shyness melts away with practice and familiarity, making social situations easier and easier to handle each time.
There's good stress and bad stress. Find out what's what and learn practical ways to cope in this article.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
In this video series, teens talk about their experiences with bullying, stress, family life, managing health problems, staying fit, eating right — and what it means to be in love.
Everyone feels a little nervous and stressed before a test. And a touch of nervous anticipation can actually help keep you at peak performance. But for some people, this normal anxiety is more intense.
It isn't easy to start over. Read this article to learn some ways to cope with the stress of moving.
Scientists are learning that positive emotions have a powerful effect on our brains and bodies, helping us feel, and act, our best. Let this article help you tap into the power of positive emotions.
Emotions help us relate to other people, know what we want, and make choices. Even "negative" emotions are useful. Find out how to understand emotions and use them effectively.
Because of all the changes taking place in your life, you may feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster. Find out more about bad moods and why you have them.
Breathing and meditation techniques can have subtle but powerful effects on everything from stress to sports performance. Try these four techniques.
Find out what the experts have to say.
There's no quick fix for ADHD. But taking medicine and working with counselors can help. This article for teens has tips for handling school and relationships.
We all mess up at times. An apology tells someone that we're sorry for the hurt we caused — even if we didn't do it on purpose. But does an apology fix everything? And how should you handle it if someone apologizes to you? Find out here.
Sometimes our ideas and beliefs stand in the way of asking for help. Here are ideas for teens on how to get past 5 common barriers to getting help.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
Coming out (or not) is a personal choice that depends on you and your situation. Learn more in this article for teens.
Are you on the outside looking in or the inside wanting out? Find out how to deal with cliques in this article for teens.
Find out what you can do if you think you or a friend has a drug or alcohol addiction - from recognizing the warning signs to suggestions to help you stay clean.
Some people cope by cutting themselves. This article helps friends understand why people cut and gives some tips on what you can to help your friend — and yourself.
Find out what the experts have to say.
People who do a good job of managing emotions know that it's healthy to express their feelings, but that it matters how they express them. Get tips in this article for teens.
Sure, you've heard of diabetes. But how much do you really know about what it's like to have it? Read our tips on helping a friend with diabetes.
People who have HIV might feel alone and frightened at times. More than anyone, they need good friends like you to lean on and trust.
People with sickle cell disease need good friends who understand and can help them get through tough times. This article for teens helps you learn what you can do to be that friend.
Although food allergies are more common than ever, people who have them may feel different or embarrassed. A good friend can really help.
Do you know someone who is having major problems? No matter how bad things get, running away is never a solution. Find out how to help your friend.
Have you heard that people who talk about suicide won't go through with it? That's not true. Read this article to learn some of the other warning signs that a person is considering suicide.
Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature — but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground. Find out how to make the right choices for you.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Thousands of you filled out our friendship survey. Find out what some of you said about being a good friend.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Anxiety is a natural part of life, and most of us experience it from time to time. But for some people, anxiety can be extreme.
Binge eating is a type of eating disorder. This article for teens explains what it is, how to recognize it, and how to get help.
Bipolar disorders are one of several medical conditions called depressive disorders that affect the way a person's brain functions. Find out more about bipolar disorder.
All over the world, people are staying home due to coronavirus (COVID-19). Social distancing is something we all can do to make a big difference. It's not easy, but these tips can help.
It can be hard to understand, but people who cut themselves sometimes do it because it actually makes them feel better. They are overflowing with emotions - like sadness, depression, or anger - that they have trouble expressing.
Depression is very common. For more information about depression and feeling better, check out this article.
Eating disorders are so common in America that 1 or 2 out of every 100 students will struggle with one. Find out more.
Fear is a normal human reaction that protects us by signaling danger and preparing us to deal with it. Get the facts about fears and phobias and what causes them.
If you need mental health care but don't think you can afford it, you're not alone. Get tips on finding low-cost or free mental health care in this article for teens.
Getting help with emotions or stress is the same as getting help with a medical problem like asthma or diabetes. This article explains how therapy works and how it can help with problems.
We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.
If you've been cutting and you want to stop, here are some approaches that might help you.
Everyone feels anxiety, fear, or worry at some time - it's normal to worry about school, your friends, your appearance, and tons of other stuff. But for teens with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), these feelings are taken to extremes.
Sometimes after experiencing a traumatic event, a person has a strong and lingering reaction known as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Getting treatment and support can make all the difference.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that affects some people and appears at the same time each year.
It's natural to feel self-conscious, nervous, or shy sometimes. But for some people, the anxiety that goes with feeling shy or self-conscious can be extreme, and it can take over their lives. Get the facts on social phobia here.
Visit our stress and coping center for advice on how to handle stress, including different stressful situations.
We all feel overwhelmed by difficult emotions or situations sometimes. Here are the warning signs of suicide and ways to get help.
Therapy is part of the treatment for most people diagnosed with ADHD. This article is for teens who want to know what to expect from therapy and how it works for ADHD.
Trichotillomania is a condition that gives people strong urges to pull out their hair. What causes it and how do people overcome it? Find out in this article.
Severe depression can cloud a person's thinking and lead some people to think that life isn't worth living. But severe depression can be treated. Find out what to do and how to get help in this article for teens.
There's no one reason why people get depressed - many different things can play a role. Find out more about the things that can trigger depression.
If you're dealing with your parents' divorce, it may seem hard, but it is possible to cope and have a good family life in spite of the changes divorce can bring.
Because everyone's situation is different, there are no easy answers to accepting a stepparent. But here are some ideas to help you deal.
If you feel depressed, you need to reach out for help and support. Read our tips for teens on talking to parents about depression.
Whether it's an everyday issue like schoolwork or an emergency situation, these tips can help you improve communications with your parents and other adults.
If you just learned you're pregnant, you're not alone. You probably wonder how to tell your parents and how they'll react. Read our article for some tips.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Part of being a teen is developing your own identity -one that is separate from the identities of your parents. Read about why you and your parents seem to be constantly at odds.
Abuse has no place in love. Read this article to find out how to recognize the signs of abuse and how you can get help.
Does your boyfriend or girlfriend treat you as well as you treat him or her? Does your BF or GF support you in good times as well as bad? Does he or she get who you really are? Find out if you're in a healthy relationship.
We all mess up at times. An apology tells someone that we're sorry for the hurt we caused — even if we didn't do it on purpose. But does an apology fix everything? And how should you handle it if someone apologizes to you? Find out here.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
Coming out (or not) is a personal choice that depends on you and your situation. Learn more in this article for teens.
About half of people who have been raped know the person who attacked them. This article explains what date rape is, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you've been raped.
Teachers can look out for you, guide you, and provide you with an adult perspective. Many are willing to answer questions, offer advice, and help with personal problems.
If you're trying to get over a break-up, you're not alone. Just about everyone experiences the type of grief we call heartbreak at one time or another.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good. Focusing on what's good in our lives can also be good for us. Find out how in this article for teens.
Breaking up means having an awkward or difficult conversation. Here are some ideas on what to say and how to say it - and why it's best to break up in person.
Loving and being loved adds richness to our lives. When people feel close to others they are happier and even healthier. But what makes a good relationship? Find out here.
People who do a good job of managing emotions know that it's healthy to express their feelings, but that it matters how they express them. Get tips in this article for teens.
The virtual world is full of opportunities to interact with people around the world. It's also a place where nothing is temporary. Here are some tips for safeguarding your online identity.
Both guys and girls often find themselves having sexual thoughts and attractions. For some, these feelings and thoughts can be intense — and even confusing.
In this video, teens talk about dating, relationships, breakups, and dealing with divorce — and how their parents do as role models.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
Deciding whether it's right for you to have sex is one of the most important decisions you'll ever have to make. Each person must use his or her own judgment and decide if it's the right time - and the right person.
More than 5,700 visitors took our survey on falling in love. Here's what you told us.
The sun is shining - why not dust off your bike and go for a ride? Before you hit the trail, though, read these tips on the right type of bike and gear you will need.
If you're having trouble choosing a sport, this article can help!
Compulsive exercise can lead to serious health problems. Lots of people don't know when they've crossed the line from healthy activity to unhealthy addiction. Read about ways to tell.
In a concussion, the brain shifts inside the skull. This can cause a sudden - but usually temporary - disruption in a person's ability to function properly and feel well. Here's what to do if you suspect a concussion.
Dehydration is when the amount of water in the body has dropped too low. Read about what causes dehydration, what it does to your body, and how to prevent it.
These videos guide you through 8 dynamic stretches that target different muscles and areas of the body.
Keeping an exercise log is a great way to stay motivated and reach exercise goals.
Some people have asthma symptoms only during or after exercise. This is called exercise-induced asthma. Get some tips for coping with it in this article.
Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.
While it may seem silly to think of golf and danger in the same sentence, injuries can and do happen. To learn how to stay safe on the golf course, take a look at these safety tips.
Gymnastics is a great sport and a fun way to get a muscular, toned body. But, it also presents a very real risk of injury. To keep things safe during practice and competition, follow these tips.
As fun as it is, ice hockey carries a very real risk of injury. To find out how to stay as safe as possible, follow these tips.
Inline skating is good exercise and an excellent off-season training program for hockey and skiing. To stay safe while inline skating, take a look at these tips.
Injuries can be common, and runners should always be aware of their surroundings. To keep things safe while running, follow these tips.
Soccer is easy to learn at a young age, and it's great exercise. But it's also a contact sport, and injuries are bound to happen. To help prevent mishaps, follow these safety tips.
Injuries in tennis are rare, but it's good to be aware before you play. To minimize your risk of injury while playing tennis, follow these safety tips.
Playing hard doesn't have to mean getting hurt. The best way to ensure a long and injury-free athletic career is to play it safe from the start. Find out how.
Is working out with weights safe for teens? The best way to build muscle tone and definition is to combine aerobic and flexibility exercises with the right kind of strength training.
You may have heard mixed things about stretching before working out. Here are the cold, hard facts on warming up, stretching, and cooling down.
Swimming and other water sports are a great way to beat the heat. Read this article to find out how you can stay safe at the pool, beach, lake - and even the water park.
These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.
Unwind after a long day at school with this yoga routine for teens.
Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.
Looking for a workout program that's easy to learn, requires little or no equipment, and soothes your soul while toning your body? Read about yoga - and watch our slideshow for some easy poses to try.
You may know that you should eat 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Here are some tips on making that happen.
You've prepared for the game in almost every way possible: but now what should you eat? Read about performance foods, nutritional supplements, and more.
People choose vegetarianism for a variety of reasons. This article describes different types of vegetarianism and provides advice on ways for vegetarians to get all the nutrients they need.
Caffeine has probably helped you through long nights of studying or filling out college applications. But how much do you know about caffeine and its side effects?
Your parents were right to make you drink milk when you were little. It's loaded with calcium, a mineral vital for building strong bones and teeth.
Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood. The body needs some cholesterol, but too much can be a problem. Discover more about cholesterol in this article for teens.
Besides extra calories, teens with cystic fibrosis have some specific nutritional needs. Find out more.
This sample meal plan for teens with cystic fibrosis provides a day's worth of meals that add up to about 3,750 calories.
Eating disorders are so common in America that 1 or 2 out of every 100 students will struggle with one. Find out more.
We all know the importance of eating well. But how are you supposed to do so when your schedule is so demanding you're never at home? Find out how to make healthy food choices on the go.
Some of the best and most delicious foods have loads of fiber. Find out how to get your fill of fiber!
From all you hear, you'd think fat and calories are really bad for you, but we all need a certain amount of them in our diets. Find out the truth about fat and calories.
Doctors are diagnosing more and more people with food allergies. Knowing what to expect and how to deal with food allergies can make a big difference in preventing serious illness.
Look at any packaged food and you'll see the food label. This nutrition facts label gives the lowdown on everything from calories to cholesterol. Read more about food labels.
Learn why food safety is important and how you can avoid the spread of bacteria when you are buying, preparing, and storing food.
Use these breakfast planning ideas to select healthy foods that satisfy your taste buds and get you on your way fast.
Lots of us don't realize we're eating too much because we've become so used to large portions. This article for teens helps you take control of your plate.
Your body gets the energy it needs from food through a process called metabolism. Get all the facts on metabolism in this article.
MyPlate is designed to help people make smart food choices. Its different food groups are a reminder of what – and how much – we should put on our plates to stay healthy.
Healthy snacks are essential for busy teens. Find out how eating nutritious snacks throughout the day can keep your energy level high and your mind alert.
You don't need to be a dietitian to figure out how to make healthy food choices. Before grabbing a shopping cart and heading for the aisles, read this article to make grocery shopping a snap.
Vitamins and minerals are nutrients that the body needs to work properly. They boost the immune system, promote normal growth and development, and help cells and organs do their jobs.
Most dieters regain the weight they lost by dieting when they go back to their old eating habits. Get our tips on the best ways to drop excess weight.
Lots of us don't realize we're eating too much because we've become so used to large portions. This article for teens helps you take control of your plate.
People want to gain weight for all sorts of reasons like playing their favorite sports or keeping up with friends who are filling out. So what's the skinny on weight gain? Find out here.
Here are some practical, everyday tips on making exercise and healthy eating work for you instead of feeling like it's the other way around.
In this video, teens talk about dealing with various health problems as well as fitting healthy eating and exercise into their lives.
One of the biggest questions guys and girls have is whether they're the right weight. Because the body is growing and changing so much during adolescence, it can be tough to answer this question.
These videos guide you through 8 dynamic stretches that target different muscles and areas of the body.
Finding it hard to fit in fitness? Try these simple exercises for teens.
Keeping an exercise log is a great way to stay motivated and reach exercise goals.
Use these tips to make your favorite lunch line choices healthier.
These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.
These recipes are especially for kids who need a gluten-free diet. Kids who need a gluten-free diet must avoid foods that contain gluten, which is a type of protein found in many foods.
A diabetes educator and dietitian chose these recipes, but they're not just for people with diabetes. Almost anyone looking for nutritious meals and snacks can enjoy them.
These recipes are especially for teens with lactose intolerance. Teens with lactose intolerance often need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This fast, easy dinner recipe is great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This low-calorie vegetarian salsa makes a great after-school snack.
Muffins make a great "grab-and-go" breakfast. You can bake these the night before or keep the batter in the fridge for 2 or 3 days and bake up smaller batches each morning.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
Use these breakfast planning ideas to select healthy foods that satisfy your taste buds and get you on your way fast.
This easy recipe makes a nice change from oatmeal or cold cereal. It's filling and good for vegetarians and people trying to lose weight -- or anyone trying to eat healthy.
Chicken soup can be high in salt, but this "from scratch" recipe allows you to control the amount of salt (and fat) in your soup. Plus, it's easy to make!
This tasty soup is high in nutrients and low in calories. It's great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This recipe can be made as either a vegetarian or non-vegetarian soup. It's a great option for people trying to lose weight.
This vegetarian recipe makes a good weekend lunch for the entire family or a party snack to share with a group. It's suitable for teens who are trying to lose weight.
This smoothie makes a satisfying snack for people trying to lose weight, vegetarians, babysitters looking for kid-friendly ideas -- or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
See what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
Most dieters regain the weight they lost by dieting when they go back to their old eating habits. Get our tips on the best ways to drop excess weight.
The name sounds reassuring - everyone knows that anything toxic is bad for you. But detox diets aren't good for teens. Find out why.
Binge eating is a type of eating disorder. This article for teens explains what it is, how to recognize it, and how to get help.
When your body changes, so can your image of yourself. Find out how your body image affects your self-esteem and what you can do.
One of the biggest questions guys and girls have as they grow and develop is whether they're the right weight. One place to start is by learning about body mass index, or BMI.
If a person is struggling with extra weight, it can add to the emotional ups and downs of being a teen. Get some tips on coping here.
We've all eaten a whole bag of chips out of boredom or while cramming for a big test. Learn more about emotional eating, and how to manage it, in this article for teens.
Some people have asthma symptoms only during or after exercise. This is called exercise-induced asthma. Get some tips for coping with it in this article.
From all you hear, you'd think fat and calories are really bad for you, but we all need a certain amount of them in our diets. Find out the truth about fat and calories.
Lots of people are unhappy with their present weight, but aren't sure how to change it - or even if they need to. Get the facts on weight loss here.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
Has your doctor told you to lose weight? Get ideas on food, fitness, and staying motivated. We've also got weight management tools and recipes designed just for teens.
Here are some practical, everyday tips on making exercise and healthy eating work for you instead of feeling like it's the other way around.
With all the focus on dieting, how do you figure out what's healthy and what isn't? Read this article to get the basics on dieting.
These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.
A couple of pounds of extra body fat are not a health risk for most people. But when people are severely overweight, it can cause health problems.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
Playing organized sports can help girls do better off the field as well as on. Find out how.
How can you get ready to play your best season ever? Read these tips for teen athletes.
You've prepared for the game in almost every way possible: but now what should you eat? Read about performance foods, nutritional supplements, and more.
A sprained ankle is a very common injury that happens when the ligaments that support the ankle get overly stretched or torn. Find out how to avoid ankle sprains and what to do if you get one.
ACL injuries can happen in active and athletic kids when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, resulting in a torn ligament.
Will using steroids transform you into the most powerful athlete your coach has ever seen? Read this article to learn the facts on steroid use.
Bones are tough stuff - but even tough stuff can break. Find out what happens when a bone fractures.
Bursitis, an irritation of the small fluid sacs that provide cushioning in some joints, is often caused by sports-related injuries or repeated use of a particular joint.
If you're having trouble choosing a sport, this article can help!
In a concussion, the brain shifts inside the skull. This can cause a sudden - but usually temporary - disruption in a person's ability to function properly and feel well. Here's what to do if you suspect a concussion.
Alex plays high school football, track, basketball, and lacrosse. He's had two concussions. Here, he talks about his experience and what he learned.
You practiced hard and made sure you wore protective gear, but you still got hurt. Read this article to find out how to take care of sports injuries - and how to avoid getting them.
Winning is all that matters when you play sports, right? Not when that means you can't even enjoy the game. Read about how to handle sports pressure and competition.
Dehydration is when the amount of water in the body has dropped too low. Read about what causes dehydration, what it does to your body, and how to prevent it.
These videos guide you through 8 dynamic stretches that target different muscles and areas of the body.
Some people have asthma symptoms only during or after exercise. This is called exercise-induced asthma. Get some tips for coping with it in this article.
Female athlete triad is a combination of three conditions: disordered eating, amenorrhea (loss of a girl's period), and osteoporosis (a weakening of the bones).
A hernia is an opening or weakness in the wall of a muscle, tissue, or membrane that normally holds an organ in place. Learning to prevent hernias isn't hard to do - check out these tips.
Jumper's knee is an overuse injury that happens when frequent jumping, running, and changing direction damages the patellar tendon.
Healthy knees are needed for many activities and sports and getting hurt can mean some time sitting on the sidelines.
Caroline loved sports. But when an ongoing knee injury kept her from playing the sports she loved, she discovered new interests. Read her story.
MCL injuries happen when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, causing a torn ligament.
Although nosebleeds are usually harmless and easily controlled, it may look like a gallon of blood is coming from your nose! Read this article to find out what causes nosebleeds and how to stop them.
Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is an overuse injury that can cause knee pain in teens, especially during growth spurts. Learn more.
Overuse (or repetitive stress) injuries happen when too much stress is placed on a part of the body, causing problems like swelling, pain, muscle strain, and tissue damage.
Baseball is by no means a dangerous sport. But it can present a very real risk of injuries from things like wild pitches, batted balls, and collisions in the field.
It's fun to play and great exercise, but basketball is also a contact sport, and injuries happen. To stay safe on the basketball court, follow these safety tips.
Cheerleading today requires considerable athletic ability. The more challenging it gets, the greater the risk of getting hurt. Find out how to avoid injuries.
Softball is a very safe sport, especially slow-pitch. But in fastpitch, things speed up, and that increases the chances of getting hurt. So keep these safety tips in mind.
Field hockey is a contact sport, and injuries are bound to happen. To minimize your risk of injury, follow these safety tips.
Football is a lot of fun, but since the name of the game is to hit somebody, injuries are common. To keep things as safe as possible, follow these tips.
When everyone's moving so fast and using sticks to sling a solid rubber ball around, injuries are bound to happen in lacrosse. Here's how to avoid them.
Skateboarding is undeniably cool, but it's also easy to get hurt. Keep it safe while skateboarding with these safety tips.
There's a lot to love about skiing, but it can also present some very real dangers. Follow these tips to stay safe on the slopes.
Sledding is a lot of fun, but can also cause injuries, some of them pretty serious. To keep yourself safe while sledding, follow these safety tips.
Snowboarding is a great way to have fun, but it can also present some very real dangers. Follow these safety tips to learn how to stay safe on the slopes.
To keep things as safe as possible for swimming season, follow these tips.
Following these tips can help protect you from injuries while playing volleyball.
In wrestling, injuries are bound to happen sometimes. To keep things as safe as possible, follow these tips.
Find out what the experts have to say.
This site has tips on things like preparing for a new season, handling sports pressure, staying motivated, and dealing with injuries.
Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to get a sports physical.
Sports supplements are products used to enhance athletic performance. Lots of people who want to improve their performance have questions about how supplements work and whether they're safe.
Playing hard doesn't have to mean getting hurt. The best way to ensure a long and injury-free athletic career is to play it safe from the start. Find out how.
Some people define good sportsmanship as treating the people that you play with and against as you'd like to be treated yourself. Learn more about what good sportsmanship is all about.
Sprains and strains are common injuries, especially for people who play hard or are into sports. Find out what they are and how to recuperate from one.
It's not always easy to tell if you have a stress fracture, and stress fractures can get worse quickly. This article explains how to prevent and treat them.
You may have heard mixed things about stretching before working out. Here are the cold, hard facts on warming up, stretching, and cooling down.
Serious testicular injuries are relatively uncommon, but testicular injury can be painful. Read this to find out what steps you can take to protect yourself from injury.
Alex plays high school football, track, basketball, and lacrosse. He's had two concussions. Here, he talks about his experience and what he learned.
Emily was adopted from Russia, where she was born with a type of dwarfism. In this video, she talks about her life philosophy and how she overcame the many hurdles she faced.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
Steven was diagnosed with SMA when he was 3. Here's a look at his life today and why he says, "When someone tells you you can't do something, don't be afraid to try something new."
In this video, teens talk about their experiences with bullying.
In this video, teens talk about living with parents and siblings -- the things they argue about and how they get along.
In this video, teens talk about dealing with various health problems as well as fitting healthy eating and exercise into their lives.
In this video, teens talk about dating, relationships, breakups, and dealing with divorce — and how their parents do as role models.
In this video, teens talk about what stresses them out and how they cope.
This fast, easy dinner recipe is great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This low-calorie vegetarian salsa makes a great after-school snack.
Muffins make a great "grab-and-go" breakfast. You can bake these the night before or keep the batter in the fridge for 2 or 3 days and bake up smaller batches each morning.
Use these breakfast planning ideas to select healthy foods that satisfy your taste buds and get you on your way fast.
This easy recipe makes a nice change from oatmeal or cold cereal. It's filling and good for vegetarians and people trying to lose weight -- or anyone trying to eat healthy.
Chicken soup can be high in salt, but this "from scratch" recipe allows you to control the amount of salt (and fat) in your soup. Plus, it's easy to make!
This tasty soup is high in nutrients and low in calories. It's great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This smoothie makes a satisfying snack for people trying to lose weight, vegetarians, babysitters looking for kid-friendly ideas -- or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
These recipes are especially for kids who need a gluten-free diet. Kids who need a gluten-free diet must avoid foods that contain gluten, which is a type of protein found in many foods.
This recipe is especially for teens who must avoid foods that contain gluten, a type of protein found in many foods.
Note: This high-calorie recipe is especially for teens with cystic fibrosis (CF), who may need additional calories to meet their nutritional needs.
This creamy chicken dish has a wonderful taste of bacon and garlic.
This meal is easy to make. Add extra sour cream for even more calories.
This recipe is a wonderful way to add vegetables to your plate and tastes even better the next day! You can easily cut this recipe in half.
You can make this yummy dessert now and freeze the leftovers to eat later.
You'll never want coleslaw any other way after trying this recipe.
This high-calorie, high-protein meal is quick and easy to make.
This high-calorie recipe is especially for teens with cystic fibrosis (CF), who may need additional calories to meet their nutritional needs.
Try this yummy grilled burger, which offers lots of flavor, calories, and protein.
This high-calorie recipe is especially for teens with cystic fibrosis (CF), who may need additional calories to meet their nutritional needs.
This high-calorie recipe is especially for teens with cystic fibrosis (CF), who need to consume additional calories to help them meet their nutritional needs.
This high-calorie recipe is especially for teens with cystic fibrosis (CF), who may need additional calories to meet their nutritional needs.
This twist on the traditional breakfast favorite is easy to make and a great way to start the day.
This warm, hearty breakfast comes together in minutes.
This is a great appetizer or snack.
This dish is packed with calories and can be served as a meal or with vegetables.
This high-calorie recipe is especially for teens with cystic fibrosis (CF), who may need additional calories to meet their nutritional needs.
Smoothies are a great way to add extra calories and protein to your diet.
This breakfast is packed with calories and protein to provide a significant amount of energy.
This dish is loaded with calories and fat, so make sure you take your enzymes if pancreatic insufficient.
A diabetes educator and dietitian chose these recipes, but they're not just for people with diabetes. Almost anyone looking for nutritious meals and snacks can enjoy them.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but it can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
This recipe is especially for teens with diabetes, but can be a nutritious part of almost anyone's diet.
These recipes are especially for teens with lactose intolerance. Teens with lactose intolerance often need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This recipe is especially for teens with lactose intolerance, who need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This recipe is especially for teens with lactose intolerance, who need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This recipe is especially for teens with lactose intolerance, who need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This recipe is especially for teens with lactose intolerance, who need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This recipe is especially for teens with lactose intolerance, who need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This fast, easy dinner recipe is great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This low-calorie vegetarian salsa makes a great after-school snack.
This easy recipe makes a nice change from oatmeal or cold cereal. It's filling and good for vegetarians and people trying to lose weight -- or anyone trying to eat healthy.
Chicken soup can be high in salt, but this "from scratch" recipe allows you to control the amount of salt (and fat) in your soup. Plus, it's easy to make!
This tasty soup is high in nutrients and low in calories. It's great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This recipe can be made as either a vegetarian or non-vegetarian soup. It's a great option for people trying to lose weight.
This vegetarian recipe makes a good weekend lunch for the entire family or a party snack to share with a group. It's suitable for teens who are trying to lose weight.
This smoothie makes a satisfying snack for people trying to lose weight, vegetarians, babysitters looking for kid-friendly ideas -- or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This low-calorie vegetarian salsa makes a great after-school snack.
Muffins make a great "grab-and-go" breakfast. You can bake these the night before or keep the batter in the fridge for 2 or 3 days and bake up smaller batches each morning.
This easy recipe makes a nice change from oatmeal or cold cereal. It's filling and good for vegetarians and people trying to lose weight -- or anyone trying to eat healthy.
This tasty soup is high in nutrients and low in calories. It's great for people trying to lose weight — or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
This recipe can be made as either a vegetarian or non-vegetarian soup. It's a great option for people trying to lose weight.
This recipe is especially for teens with lactose intolerance, who need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This recipe is especially for teens with lactose intolerance, who need to limit or avoid dairy products.
This smoothie makes a satisfying snack for people trying to lose weight, vegetarians, babysitters looking for kid-friendly ideas -- or anyone who wants to eat healthy.
Factors beyond your control may affect driving conditions: rain, wind, snow, ice, bright sun, fog, and hail, just to name a few. So what should you do if you find yourself driving in bad weather?
You have joined the millions of new drivers already behind the wheel. Here are a few tips to keep you both sane and safe.
Congestion, nighttime, and construction zone driving are tricky driving conditions. Here are tips for teen drivers on handling these situations.
Whether you're driving your friends to the beach for the day or going on vacation with your family, read these tips for surviving road trips.
You've heard the warnings about texting and driving, but it's also risky to text and walk. Read our tips for safe texting.
These defensive driving skills can help you avoid the dangers caused by other people's bad driving.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Although you do your best to drive responsibly and defensively, it's still a good idea to know what to do just in case you end up in an accident.
If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.
A sprained ankle is a very common injury that happens when the ligaments that support the ankle get overly stretched or torn. Find out how to avoid ankle sprains and what to do if you get one.
A buckle or torus fracture is a type of broken bone. One side of the bone bends, raising a little buckle, without breaking the other side of the bone. Teens don't usually get this type of fracture.
Generally, insect bites and stings are harmless. Find out how to keep pests from ruining your fun.
This article for teens has tips on taking care of a cast so it keeps working as it should.
A comminuted fracture is a type of broken bone. The bone is broken into more than two pieces.
In a concussion, the brain shifts inside the skull. This can cause a sudden - but usually temporary - disruption in a person's ability to function properly and feel well. Here's what to do if you suspect a concussion.
Most small cuts, scrapes, or abrasions heal on their own. Here are tips for teens on how to treat cuts at home - and when to get medical help.
You practiced hard and made sure you wore protective gear, but you still got hurt. Read this article to find out how to take care of sports injuries - and how to avoid getting them.
Dehydration is when the amount of water in the body has dropped too low. Read about what causes dehydration, what it does to your body, and how to prevent it.
A broken bone requires emergency medical care. Here's what to do.
A greenstick fracture is a type of broken bone. The bone cracks on one side only, not all the way through the bone.
Lice aren't dangerous, but they do spread from person to person easily. They can also be hard to get rid of. Find out how to prevent lice -- and what to do if someone you know has them.
Broken bones have an amazing ability to heal. New bone forms within a few weeks of the injury, although full healing can take longer.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Healthy knees are needed for many activities and sports and getting hurt can mean some time sitting on the sidelines.
Although nosebleeds are usually harmless and easily controlled, it may look like a gallon of blood is coming from your nose! Read this article to find out what causes nosebleeds and how to stop them.
Overuse (or repetitive stress) injuries happen when too much stress is placed on a part of the body, causing problems like swelling, pain, muscle strain, and tissue damage.
Poison ivy can grow anywhere, from the woods to your backyard. This article for teens has tips on how to avoid the plant and what to do if you get a rash.
A person with severe allergies can be at risk for a sudden, serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This reaction can seem scary, but the good news is it can be treated.
It may be tempting to ignore a splinter, especially if it doesn't hurt. But a splinter can become infected, so you should try to get it out as soon as you notice it.
A splint is a support device that keeps an injured area from moving. Doctors often use splints to hold bones and joints in place so they can heal after a fracture.
Serious testicular injuries are relatively uncommon, but testicular injury can be painful. Read this to find out what steps you can take to protect yourself from injury.
Emergencies happen when we least expect them, and they require fast thinking and action. Here are some things to know so you'll be prepared.
If a texting driver is making you nervous but you're not sure how to bring the topic up, here are some ideas.
ATVs provide off-road fun. But with the thrills come big risks like rollovers and collisions. Here are tips for teens on staying safe.
The sun is shining - why not dust off your bike and go for a ride? Before you hit the trail, though, read these tips on the right type of bike and gear you will need.
Earbuds are basically a tiny pair of speakers that go inside the ears. They're fine at low volumes, but they can cause permanent hearing loss if not used properly. Find out what's safe (and not) in this article for teens.
News reports on health and medicine can be confusing —and sometimes downright scary. How do you know what is important and accurate?
Fireworks safety starts with the manufacturer, but it ends with you! Read these tips on handling fireworks safely and have a blast on the Fourth!
A broken bone requires emergency medical care. Here's what to do.
Every year, guns are used to kill or injure thousands of Americans. Here's how to keep yourself safe, whether your family has guns at home or not.
Whether it's protecting yourself from hackers or cyberbullies, these tips for teens will help you navigate the digital world safely.
The virtual world is full of opportunities to interact with people around the world. It's also a place where nothing is temporary. Here are some tips for safeguarding your online identity.
Rape is forced, unwanted sexual intercourse. Rape is about power, not sex. Both men and women of any age can be raped. Find out what you can do and how to take care of yourself after a rape.
Playing hard doesn't have to mean getting hurt. The best way to ensure a long and injury-free athletic career is to play it safe from the start. Find out how.
The sun can do a lot more than just give you a warm summer glow. Get the facts on sun and skin damage - and what you can do to protect yourself and still look tan.
Sending and receiving messages late at night can disrupt your sleep and leave you tired and unfocused when it's time for school.
You've heard the warnings about texting and driving, but it's also risky to text and walk. Read our tips for safe texting.
Swimming and other water sports are a great way to beat the heat. Read this article to find out how you can stay safe at the pool, beach, lake - and even the water park.
Emergencies happen when we least expect them, and they require fast thinking and action. Here are some things to know so you'll be prepared.
Dehydration is when the amount of water in the body has dropped too low. Read about what causes dehydration, what it does to your body, and how to prevent it.
These videos guide you through 8 dynamic stretches that target different muscles and areas of the body.
A groin strain is when one or more of the muscles in the inner thigh gets stretched, injured, or torn. Find out what to do for groin strains.
Most hip pointer injuries can be easily treated and heal in their own time. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
The key to healing meniscus tears is not to get back into play too quickly. Find out what meniscus tears are and how to treat them.
Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) happen when movements are repeated over and over, damaging a bone, tendon, or joint.
Baseball is by no means a dangerous sport. But it can present a very real risk of injuries from things like wild pitches, batted balls, and collisions in the field.
It's fun to play and great exercise, but basketball is also a contact sport, and injuries happen. To stay safe on the basketball court, follow these safety tips.
Cheerleading today requires considerable athletic ability. The more challenging it gets, the greater the risk of getting hurt. Find out how to avoid injuries.
Softball is a very safe sport, especially slow-pitch. But in fastpitch, things speed up, and that increases the chances of getting hurt. So keep these safety tips in mind.
Field hockey is a contact sport, and injuries are bound to happen. To minimize your risk of injury, follow these safety tips.
Football is a lot of fun, but since the name of the game is to hit somebody, injuries are common. To keep things as safe as possible, follow these tips.
While it may seem silly to think of golf and danger in the same sentence, injuries can and do happen. To learn how to stay safe on the golf course, take a look at these safety tips.
Gymnastics is a great sport and a fun way to get a muscular, toned body. But, it also presents a very real risk of injury. To keep things safe during practice and competition, follow these tips.
As fun as it is, ice hockey carries a very real risk of injury. To find out how to stay as safe as possible, follow these tips.
Inline skating is good exercise and an excellent off-season training program for hockey and skiing. To stay safe while inline skating, take a look at these tips.
When everyone's moving so fast and using sticks to sling a solid rubber ball around, injuries are bound to happen in lacrosse. Here's how to avoid them.
Injuries can be common, and runners should always be aware of their surroundings. To keep things safe while running, follow these tips.
Skateboarding is undeniably cool, but it's also easy to get hurt. Keep it safe while skateboarding with these safety tips.
There's a lot to love about skiing, but it can also present some very real dangers. Follow these tips to stay safe on the slopes.
Sledding is a lot of fun, but can also cause injuries, some of them pretty serious. To keep yourself safe while sledding, follow these safety tips.
Snowboarding is a great way to have fun, but it can also present some very real dangers. Follow these safety tips to learn how to stay safe on the slopes.
Soccer is easy to learn at a young age, and it's great exercise. But it's also a contact sport, and injuries are bound to happen. To help prevent mishaps, follow these safety tips.
To keep things as safe as possible for swimming season, follow these tips.
Injuries in tennis are rare, but it's good to be aware before you play. To minimize your risk of injury while playing tennis, follow these safety tips.
Following these tips can help protect you from injuries while playing volleyball.
In wrestling, injuries are bound to happen sometimes. To keep things as safe as possible, follow these tips.
As long as people play sports, there will be concussions from time to time. Find out how to protect yourself and what to do if you get a concussion playing sports.
Playing hard doesn't have to mean getting hurt. The best way to ensure a long and injury-free athletic career is to play it safe from the start. Find out how.
Sprains and strains are common injuries, especially for people who play hard or are into sports. Find out what they are and how to recuperate from one.
You probably can't wait to get back to your normal activities, but it takes a while for a limb that's been in a cast to finish healing. Here's what to expect.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
Are you on the outside looking in or the inside wanting out? Find out how to deal with cliques in this article for teens.
Using technology to bully is a problem that's on the rise. The good news is awareness of how to prevent cyberbullying is growing even faster. See our tips on what to do.
Bullying has everyone worried, not just the people on its receiving end. Learn about dealing with bullies, including tips on how to stand up for yourself or a friend.
Every year, guns are used to kill or injure thousands of Americans. Here's how to keep yourself safe, whether your family has guns at home or not.
Find out what the experts have to say.
The virtual world is full of opportunities to interact with people around the world. It's also a place where nothing is temporary. Here are some tips for safeguarding your online identity.
Rape is forced, unwanted sexual intercourse. Rape is about power, not sex. Both men and women of any age can be raped. Find out what you can do and how to take care of yourself after a rape.
Just like other kinds of bullying, sexual bullying is intended to hurt, offend, or intimidate another person. Find out how to recognize sexual bullying and harassment and what to do.
Find out what the experts have to say.
After hearing news of school shootings or other violence, it's natural for students — no matter how old they are or where they go to school — to worry about whether this type of incident may someday happen to them or their friends.
If you suspect that someone is bringing a weapon to school or threatening someone else's life, it requires immediate attention. This article offers some tips on getting help.
In this video, teens talk about their experiences with bullying.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
If a texting driver is making you nervous but you're not sure how to bring the topic up, here are some ideas.
Factors beyond your control may affect driving conditions: rain, wind, snow, ice, bright sun, fog, and hail, just to name a few. So what should you do if you find yourself driving in bad weather?
You have joined the millions of new drivers already behind the wheel. Here are a few tips to keep you both sane and safe.
Congestion, nighttime, and construction zone driving are tricky driving conditions. Here are tips for teen drivers on handling these situations.
Whether you're driving your friends to the beach for the day or going on vacation with your family, read these tips for surviving road trips.
You've heard the warnings about texting and driving, but it's also risky to text and walk. Read our tips for safe texting.
These defensive driving skills can help you avoid the dangers caused by other people's bad driving.
Although you do your best to drive responsibly and defensively, it's still a good idea to know what to do just in case you end up in an accident.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Missing out on shots puts you at more serious risk than you might think. That one little "ouch" moment protects you from some major health problems.
Find out what the experts have to say.
We all mess up at times. An apology tells someone that we're sorry for the hurt we caused — even if we didn't do it on purpose. But does an apology fix everything? And how should you handle it if someone apologizes to you? Find out here.
Sometimes our ideas and beliefs stand in the way of asking for help. Here are ideas for teens on how to get past 5 common barriers to getting help.
Assertiveness is the ability to speak up for yourself in a way that is honest and respectful. But it doesn't come naturally to everyone. Find out if you're too passive, too aggressive, or just assertive enough.
Find out what you can do if you think you or a friend has a drug or alcohol addiction - from recognizing the warning signs to suggestions to help you stay clean.
Some people cope by cutting themselves. This article helps friends understand why people cut and gives some tips on what you can to help your friend — and yourself.
You might want to make new friends, but aren’t sure how to do it. This article for teens with autism can help.
People who do a good job of managing emotions know that it's healthy to express their feelings, but that it matters how they express them. Get tips in this article for teens.
Do you know someone who is having major problems? No matter how bad things get, running away is never a solution. Find out how to help your friend.
Have you heard that people who talk about suicide won't go through with it? That's not true. Read this article to learn some of the other warning signs that a person is considering suicide.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
Thousands of you filled out our friendship survey. Find out what some of you said about being a good friend.
If you're thinking about a summer job, apply. You have nothing to lose and a lot to gain.
If you're new to babysitting, check out our guide to learn how to be the best babysitter around. Been babysitting forever? Use the guide to check your skills.
There's a 97% chance that someone you know will need a blood transfusion. Blood donors — especially donors with certain blood types — are always in demand. Find out what's involved in this article for teens.
Need to make money or gain work experience? Follow these tips on finding the job that's right for you.
These career videos help high school students get an idea of what's involved in doing specific health and medical jobs.
Rejection hurts. But it's impossible to avoid. Life is about going for things. And when we do, rejection is always a possibility.
Volunteering gives you an opportunity to change lives, including your own. Get ideas on things you can do and tips on getting started in this article for teens.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
Stressed out about speaking or performing in front of people? These tips can help you cope.
When researching school projects, it helps to know how to evaluate and choose online resources. Here are tips.
ADHD is a medical condition that affects how well someone can sit still, focus, and pay attention. This article for teens has the basics on ADHD.
There's no quick fix for ADHD. But taking medicine and working with counselors can help. This article for teens has tips for handling school and relationships.
Autism spectrum disorder can make communicating and interacting with other people difficult. Find out more.
Dread it or love it, you gotta go to school. Looking for ways to make the first day a little less painful? Here are some tips.
Backpacks help you to stay organized. They're also better for carrying school supplies than messenger or other shoulder bags. But can they cause health problems?
Every student finds it hard to stay on top of schoolwork sometimes. So what happens when you have to miss a lot of school? This article for teens offers tips and advice.
Joining a club or team is a fun way to try new things, meet people, and be active. Learn more about the basics and benefits of getting involved.
News reports on health and medicine can be confusing —and sometimes downright scary. How do you know what is important and accurate?
Use these tips to make your favorite lunch line choices healthier.
Homeschooled students can learn just as much as they would in regular school. Get the facts on home schooling here.
Having trouble getting a handle on all of your homework? Get your work space set, your schedule organized, and your studying done with the help of this article.
Reading on your own isn't like reading for school. You can pick something that's all about your interests — whether it's ancient martial arts, computers, or fashion design. Get tips on how.
Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.
Want to stay on top of your schoolwork by taking great notes? Here's how!
Whether it's protecting yourself from hackers or cyberbullies, these tips for teens will help you navigate the digital world safely.
It's not just for school: Mastering the skills of getting organized, staying focused, and seeing work through to the end will help in just about everything you do.
Everyone gets rejected at some point. Get some insight into your coping skills by taking this quiz for teens.
School counselors can give you all sorts of tips and support on solving problems and making good decisions. But how do you meet with a counselor and what is it like? Find out here.
A concussion can affect you at school because it's a type of brain injury. Doing schoolwork and being in a classroom can sometimes make things worse. Here's what to know about school and concussions.
The transition from middle school to high school is an important one. Here are a few topics that commonly worry incoming freshmen and some things you might want to know about them.
Some people use certain medicines without a prescription because they think these meds help with focus and concentration. If you've heard of "study drugs" and wonder if there are any risks, find out in this article for teens.
You have a history test tomorrow, a math test the next day, and weekly French pop quizzes. Don't panic - our article provides tips on how to study.
Everyone feels a little nervous and stressed before a test. And a touch of nervous anticipation can actually help keep you at peak performance. But for some people, this normal anxiety is more intense.
Do you sweat, chew your pencil, and feel butterflies in your stomach as your teacher hands out a test? Study these test-taking tips!
Dyslexia is a learning disability in which people have difficulty learning to read, even though they are smart enough and are motivated to learn. Learn more about dyslexia and how to deal with it.
Unwind after a long day at school with this yoga routine for teens.
Thousands of you filled out our friendship survey. Find out what some of you said about being a good friend.
Find out what our readers said about how they handle back-to-school worries.
Writing a paper can seem intimidating at first. But putting together a good paper really just involves a combination of things you already know how to do. Here are some tips.
Breathing and meditation techniques can have subtle but powerful effects on everything from stress to sports performance. Try these four techniques.
Writing a report? Studying for a test? Having problems at school? Get tips and advice.
Having trouble getting a handle on all of your homework? Get your work space set, your schedule organized, and your studying done with the help of this article.
Reading on your own isn't like reading for school. You can pick something that's all about your interests — whether it's ancient martial arts, computers, or fashion design. Get tips on how.
Want to stay on top of your schoolwork by taking great notes? Here's how!
It's not just for school: Mastering the skills of getting organized, staying focused, and seeing work through to the end will help in just about everything you do.
Yoga is a great way to take a study break because it refocuses and re-energizes both the body and mind. This routine uses poses that work for teens.
You have a history test tomorrow, a math test the next day, and weekly French pop quizzes. Don't panic - our article provides tips on how to study.
Do you sweat, chew your pencil, and feel butterflies in your stomach as your teacher hands out a test? Study these test-taking tips!
Writing a paper can seem intimidating at first. But putting together a good paper really just involves a combination of things you already know how to do. Here are some tips.
Breathing and meditation techniques can have subtle but powerful effects on everything from stress to sports performance. Try these four techniques.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Read this article to get the basics on birth control.
Abstinence is the only form of birth control that is 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. Abstinence also protects people against STDs.
Some birth control methods work better than others. This chart compares how well different birth control methods work.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Learn what the birth control patch is, how well it works, and more.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Read this article to learn what birth control pills are, how well they work, and more.
A woman places the birth control ring in her vagina where it slowly releases hormones into the bloodstream to prevent pregnancy.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Read this article about the birth control shot and find out how it works - and how well.
Condoms may be a good birth control option for couples who are responsible enough to use one each time and people who want protection against STDs.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Emergency contraception is a way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex; for example, if a condom breaks or slips off during sex. It is also available to teens who are forced to have unprotected sex.
Learn what the fertility awareness (rhythm method) of birth control is and how it works - and some of the reasons why it might not work for teens.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Find out what implantable contraception is, how well it works, and more.
Spermicides can be used alone but are more effective when used with another method of birth control, such as a condom or diaphragm.
Some people - even those who are having sex - are embarrassed by the topic of condoms. Here are some tips for talking about condoms with your partner.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Read this article about the cervical cap to find out if it's right for you and how well it works.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. A diaphragm may be a birth control good option for a young woman who can take responsibility in advance.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Learn more about the IUD and to find out how well it works for teens.
Before you consider having sex, you need to know how to protect yourself. Learn about withdrawal - and whether it's effective at preventing pregnancy and STDs.
If periods aren't regular it's usually because a girl's body is still developing. But sometimes, changes in blood flow can be a sign of abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB).
Periods can be confusing. Get the facts in this article for teens.
Find out what the experts have to say.
It's rare for teen girls to have breast problems. But sometimes a doctor or nurse might think a breast exam is a good idea. Find out why, as well as what's involved in a breast exam.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Read this article to learn all about endometriosis and how doctors help girls who have it.
Wondering what you can do to feel as clean as possible "down there"? Read this article for the facts on douches, wipes, and other feminine hygiene products.
Why do girls get periods? What goes on when a woman gets pregnant? What can go wrong with the female reproductive system? Find the answers to these questions and more in this article for teens.
Girls should get their first gynecological checkup between ages 13 and 15. Find out what happens during a yearly gyn visit -- and why most girls don't get internal exams.
Whether you feel confused, worried, scared, or excited, you'll want to know how your life will change, what you can do to have a healthy baby.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Wondering whether it's normal to have irregular periods? Get the facts about this common problem.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Get the facts on which period problems are normal and which ones might indicate something's going on.
A Pap smear is a medical test that helps doctors figure out if there are any problems with a girl's cervix. Find out what happens during a Pap smear.
A pelvic exam is where a doctor or nurse practitioner looks at a girl's reproductive organs (both outside and internally) and feels the uterus and ovaries to be sure everything's normal. Find out what's involved in this article for teens.
In polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the ovaries produce higher than normal amounts of certain hormones, which can interfere with egg development and release. Learn how doctors diagnose and treat PCOS.
Both guys and girls often find themselves having sexual thoughts and attractions. For some, these feelings and thoughts can be intense — and even confusing.
Just like other kinds of bullying, sexual bullying is intended to hurt, offend, or intimidate another person. Find out how to recognize sexual bullying and harassment and what to do.
Learning to take care of your body is part of growing up. Here's what you need to do to keep your body clean and healthy.
Some people - even those who are having sex - are embarrassed by the topic of condoms. Here are some tips for talking about condoms with your partner.
When it comes to pads and tampons, there are lots of choices. It may take some experimenting before you find what works best for you. Here are some tips.
If you just learned you're pregnant, you're not alone. You probably wonder how to tell your parents and how they'll react. Read our article for some tips.
Although toxic shock syndrome (TSS) can be serious, it's a very rare illness.
Normal vaginal discharge has several purposes: cleaning and moistening the vagina and helping to prevent infections. But sometimes discharge indicates there's a problem. Get the facts on what's normal and what's not.
Deciding whether it's right for you to have sex is one of the most important decisions you'll ever have to make. Each person must use his or her own judgment and decide if it's the right time - and the right person.
It's quite common for girls to have different-sized breasts, especially as they develop during puberty. If you're worried about how your breasts are developing, check out this article.
Breast soreness is common among teens, but it can still seem worrying when it happens to you. Fortunately, breast pain is rarely serious. Find out why your breasts may hurt and what you can do about it.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Now that you're older, your body may be changing. This is a normal part of growing up. Here's what's going on.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Puberty can be confusing, especially when unexpected changes happen. Learn what gynecomastia is and why it happens.
A hernia is an opening or weakness in the wall of a muscle, tissue, or membrane that normally holds an organ in place. Learning to prevent hernias isn't hard to do - check out these tips.
The testicular self-examination (TSE) is an easy way for guys to check their own testicles to make sure there aren't any unusual lumps or bumps - which are usually the first sign of testicular cancer.
If you've ever had an erection in an embarrassing situation, you've probably asked yourself this question. But erections are a perfectly normal function of the male body, especially in guys who are going through puberty.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Just about every guy wonders about the size of his penis at one time or another.
What makes up a guy's reproductive system and how does it develop? Find the answers to these questions and more.
Both guys and girls often find themselves having sexual thoughts and attractions. For some, these feelings and thoughts can be intense — and even confusing.
Just like other kinds of bullying, sexual bullying is intended to hurt, offend, or intimidate another person. Find out how to recognize sexual bullying and harassment and what to do.
When you're a teen, your body changes — this is part of growing up. You will have to learn new routines to keep yourself clean and healthy. Here's what to expect.
Some people - even those who are having sex - are embarrassed by the topic of condoms. Here are some tips for talking about condoms with your partner.
If you're a guy, you may be wondering why the doctor needs to do a testicular exam. Find out in this article.
Serious testicular injuries are relatively uncommon, but testicular injury can be painful. Read this to find out what steps you can take to protect yourself from injury.
This emergency condition happens when the spermatic cord gets twisted and cuts off blood supply, causing pain and swelling. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins in the scrotum. Although there is no way to prevent a varicocele, it usually needs no special treatment.
Deciding whether it's right for you to have sex is one of the most important decisions you'll ever have to make. Each person must use his or her own judgment and decide if it's the right time - and the right person.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
At puberty, guys' bodies begin producing a lot of the hormone testosterone, which causes changes in several parts of the body, including the voice.
When you're a teen, your body changes. This part of growing up. It's called puberty. Here's what to expect.
BV is the most common vaginal infection. Although it's a mild infection, it can cause serious problems if it's not treated. Find out how to recognize BV and what to do about it in this article for teens.
Chlamydia is an STD that often has no symptoms, so lots of people can have it and not know it. Read this article to learn how to protect yourself.
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). There's no cure for genital herpes, but medicines can help control it.
Genital warts usually are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which also can lead to cervical cancer and other types of cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent HPV infection.
The STD gonorrhea can be very dangerous if it's not treated, even in someone who has mild or no symptoms. For information about how to protect yourself, read this article.
There is no cure for AIDS, which is why prevention is so important. Get the facts on HIV/AIDS, as well as how it affects the body and is treated, in this article.
The HPV vaccine can help protect against the virus that causes genital warts and may lead to some kinds of cancer. Find out more in this article for teens.
Hepatitis, an infectious liver disease, is more contagious than HIV. Find out about the different types of hepatitis.
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads through blood or other body fluids, and can lead to cirrhosis or liver cancer. The most common way people become infected is by sharing drug paraphernalia.
Find out what the experts have to say.
AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is a disease where the body is unable to fight off many infectious diseases as it normally could. Find out how AIDS is spread and how to protect yourself against it.
Often the only way to know if someone is infected with HIV is through testing. Here are the facts on what's involved in getting tested — and who should get tested for HIV and why.
People who have HIV might feel alone and frightened at times. More than anyone, they need good friends like you to lean on and trust.
Pelvic inflammatory disease, sometimes called PID, is an infection of the fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, or ovaries. Learn how to protect yourself.
Pubic lice, or "crabs," are tiny insects that usually spread through sex.
You've probably heard lots of discouraging news about sexually transmitted diseases. The good news is that STDs can be prevented. Find out how to protect yourself.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Early treatment can cure it and prevent long-term problems.
Some people - even those who are having sex - are embarrassed by the topic of condoms. Here are some tips for talking about condoms with your partner.
You know you should talk about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) before the action starts. But what if the thought of having "the talk" makes you nervous? These tips can help.
People who have STDs might feel apprehensive about discussing their disease with a partner. Here are some tips on talking to a partner when you have an STD.
Trichomoniasis is a curable disease that can be passed from one person to another during sex. The good news is that it can be prevented. Read about how to protect yourself.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common reasons that teens visit a doctor. Learn about the symptoms of UTIs, how they're treated, and more in this article.
What are vaginal yeast infections? Can anything be done to prevent them?
Many people think of guys as being carefree when it comes to appearance. But guys spend plenty of time in front of the mirror. And some worry just as much as girls do about their looks.
Adolescent medicine doctors are specialists who have extra training in the medical and emotional issues that many teens face.
Concerned about your growth or development? Puberty can be delayed for several reasons. Luckily, doctors usually can help teens with delayed puberty to develop more normally.
Voice cracking? Clothes don't fit? Puberty can be a confusing time, but learning about it doesn't have to be. Read all about it.
Why do girls get periods? What goes on when a woman gets pregnant? What can go wrong with the female reproductive system? Find the answers to these questions and more in this article for teens.
Puberty can be confusing, especially when unexpected changes happen. Learn what gynecomastia is and why it happens.
Your body's changing - and if you've ever felt out of step with it, you're not alone. Find out how to deal with body changes and feelings in this article.
What makes up a guy's reproductive system and how does it develop? Find the answers to these questions and more.
When you're a teen, your body changes — this is part of growing up. You will have to learn new routines to keep yourself clean and healthy. Here's what to expect.
Learning to take care of your body is part of growing up. Here's what you need to do to keep your body clean and healthy.
Lots of girls and guys worry about when their bodies will develop. The fact is that physical development starts at different times and moves along at different rates in normal kids.
It's quite common for girls to have different-sized breasts, especially as they develop during puberty. If you're worried about how your breasts are developing, check out this article.
At puberty, guys' bodies begin producing a lot of the hormone testosterone, which causes changes in several parts of the body, including the voice.
When you're a teen, your body changes. This part of growing up. It's called puberty. Here's what to expect.
Now that you're older, your body may be changing. This is a normal part of growing up. Here's what's going on.
Find out about the mysterious, life-sustaining fluid called blood.
Our bones, muscles, and joints form our musculoskeletal system and enable us to do everyday physical activities.
If the brain is a central computer that controls all the functions of the body, then the nervous system is like a network that relays messages back and forth to different parts of the body. Find out how they work in this Body Basics article.
Most people think digestion begins when you first put food in your mouth. But the digestive process actually starts even before the food hits your taste buds.
The endocrine system influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. It is instrumental in regulating mood, growth and development, metabolism, and sexual function, among other things.
Although your eyes are small, their structure is incredibly complex. Find out how they work in this body basics article.
Why do girls get periods? What goes on when a woman gets pregnant? What can go wrong with the female reproductive system? Find the answers to these questions and more in this article for teens.
The heart and circulatory system (also called the cardiovascular system) make up the network that delivers blood to the body's tissues.
The immune system is made up of special cells, proteins, tissues, and organs that defend people against germs and microorganisms.
The kidneys perform several functions that are essential to health, the most important of which are to filter blood and produce urine.
Each day you breathe about 20,000 times. Find out more about the lungs and breathing process.
What makes up a guy's reproductive system and how does it develop? Find the answers to these questions and more.
Your body gets the energy it needs from food through a process called metabolism. Get all the facts on metabolism in this article.
Did you know that your mouth is the first step in the body's digestive process? Or that the mouth and teeth are essential for speech? Learn about the many roles your mouth and teeth play.
Our skin protects the network of tissues, muscles, bones, nerves, blood vessels, and everything else inside our bodies. Hair and nails are actually modified types of skin.
The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that helps keep bodily fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections.
Playing organized sports can help girls do better off the field as well as on. Find out how.
How can you get ready to play your best season ever? Read these tips for teen athletes.
If you're having trouble choosing a sport, this article can help!
Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to get a sports physical.
Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.
If the tendon just above your heel becomes swollen or irritated due to overuse, it can lead to a painful condition called Achilles tendonitis. Find out how to treat it - and prevent it.
A sprained ankle is a very common injury that happens when the ligaments that support the ankle get overly stretched or torn. Find out how to avoid ankle sprains and what to do if you get one.
ACL injuries can happen in active and athletic kids when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, resulting in a torn ligament.
Although the name athlete's foot sounds funny, if you have this skin infection, you're probably not laughing. The good news is that it is generally easy to treat.
A broken collarbone is one of the most common types of broken bones. Find out how it can happen - and how to treat and avoid fractures.
Burners - also called stingers - usually happen in the neck or shoulder. They take their name from the burning or stinging sensation they cause. Find out how to treat burners - and prevent them.
Bursitis, an irritation of the small fluid sacs that provide cushioning in some joints, is often caused by sports-related injuries or repeated use of a particular joint.
This article for teens has tips on taking care of a cast so it keeps working as it should.
Compulsive exercise can lead to serious health problems. Lots of people don't know when they've crossed the line from healthy activity to unhealthy addiction. Read about ways to tell.
In a concussion, the brain shifts inside the skull. This can cause a sudden - but usually temporary - disruption in a person's ability to function properly and feel well. Here's what to do if you suspect a concussion.
All body parts take time to heal, even brains.This article for teens has tips on what doctors often recommend to help people heal from a concussion.
You practiced hard and made sure you wore protective gear, but you still got hurt. Read this article to find out how to take care of sports injuries - and how to avoid getting them.
Dehydration is when the amount of water in the body has dropped too low. Read about what causes dehydration, what it does to your body, and how to prevent it.
Fainting is pretty common in teens. The good news is that most of the time it's not a sign of something serious.
Female athlete triad is a combination of three conditions: disordered eating, amenorrhea (loss of a girl's period), and osteoporosis (a weakening of the bones).
A greenstick fracture is a type of broken bone. The bone cracks on one side only, not all the way through the bone.
A groin strain is when one or more of the muscles in the inner thigh gets stretched, injured, or torn. Find out what to do for groin strains.
A hamstring strain happens when one or more of the muscles in the back of the leg gets stretched too far and starts to tear. Find out how to treat hamstring strains in this article for teens.
A hernia is an opening or weakness in the wall of a muscle, tissue, or membrane that normally holds an organ in place. Learning to prevent hernias isn't hard to do - check out these tips.
Most hip pointer injuries can be easily treated and heal in their own time. Find out what to do in this article for teens.
Jock itch is a pretty common fungal infection of the groin and upper thighs. It is generally easy to treat - and avoid - by following a few simple steps.
Jumper's knee is an overuse injury that happens when frequent jumping, running, and changing direction damages the patellar tendon.
Healthy knees are needed for many activities and sports and getting hurt can mean some time sitting on the sidelines.
MCL injuries happen when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, causing a torn ligament.
The key to healing meniscus tears is not to get back into play too quickly. Find out what meniscus tears are and how to treat them.
Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is an overuse injury that can cause knee pain in teens, especially during growth spurts. Learn more.
Overuse (or repetitive stress) injuries happen when too much stress is placed on a part of the body, causing problems like swelling, pain, muscle strain, and tissue damage.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (or runner's knee) is the most common overuse injury among runners, but it can also happen to other athletes who do activities that require a lot of knee bending.
In teens, biceps tendonitis is usually an overuse injury that causes tendons in the upper arm to be swollen or irritated. Most cases heal on their own if you follow a few guidelines from your doctor.
Quadriceps contusions are common in sports that have a lot of direct contact or a chance of collisions or wipeouts. Find out what to do if you get one - and how to avoid them.
Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) happen when movements are repeated over and over, damaging a bone, tendon, or joint.
Shin splints are pain on the inner part of the shinbone, often from running or another high-impact activity. They get better with rest.
This growth-related injury is more common in teens who play sports that require a lot of running or jumping. Find out why it happens - and what you can do to avoid and treat it.
As long as people play sports, there will be concussions from time to time. Find out how to protect yourself and what to do if you get a concussion playing sports.
It's not always easy to tell if you have a stress fracture, and stress fractures can get worse quickly. This article explains how to prevent and treat them.
Serious testicular injuries are relatively uncommon, but testicular injury can be painful. Read this to find out what steps you can take to protect yourself from injury.
You probably can't wait to get back to your normal activities, but it takes a while for a limb that's been in a cast to finish healing. Here's what to expect.
Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.
Winning is all that matters when you play sports, right? Not when that means you can't even enjoy the game. Read about how to handle sports pressure and competition.
Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.
Some people define good sportsmanship as treating the people that you play with and against as you'd like to be treated yourself. Learn more about what good sportsmanship is all about.
Scientists are learning that positive emotions have a powerful effect on our brains and bodies, helping us feel, and act, our best. Let this article help you tap into the power of positive emotions.
You might find yourself wanting to quit a sport. Here are some ways to decide what to do.
Breathing and meditation techniques can have subtle but powerful effects on everything from stress to sports performance. Try these four techniques.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Alex plays high school football, track, basketball, and lacrosse. He's had two concussions. Here, he talks about his experience and what he learned.
Caroline loved sports. But when an ongoing knee injury kept her from playing the sports she loved, she discovered new interests. Read her story.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
Steven was diagnosed with SMA when he was 3. Here's a look at his life today and why he says, "When someone tells you you can't do something, don't be afraid to try something new."
How can you get ready to play your best season ever? Read these tips for teen athletes.
You've prepared for the game in almost every way possible: but now what should you eat? Read about performance foods, nutritional supplements, and more.
Will using steroids transform you into the most powerful athlete your coach has ever seen? Read this article to learn the facts on steroid use.
Caffeine has probably helped you through long nights of studying or filling out college applications. But how much do you know about caffeine and its side effects?
These videos guide you through 8 dynamic stretches that target different muscles and areas of the body.
Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) happen when movements are repeated over and over, damaging a bone, tendon, or joint.
Baseball is by no means a dangerous sport. But it can present a very real risk of injuries from things like wild pitches, batted balls, and collisions in the field.
It's fun to play and great exercise, but basketball is also a contact sport, and injuries happen. To stay safe on the basketball court, follow these safety tips.
Cheerleading today requires considerable athletic ability. The more challenging it gets, the greater the risk of getting hurt. Find out how to avoid injuries.
Softball is a very safe sport, especially slow-pitch. But in fastpitch, things speed up, and that increases the chances of getting hurt. So keep these safety tips in mind.
Field hockey is a contact sport, and injuries are bound to happen. To minimize your risk of injury, follow these safety tips.
Football is a lot of fun, but since the name of the game is to hit somebody, injuries are common. To keep things as safe as possible, follow these tips.
While it may seem silly to think of golf and danger in the same sentence, injuries can and do happen. To learn how to stay safe on the golf course, take a look at these safety tips.
Gymnastics is a great sport and a fun way to get a muscular, toned body. But, it also presents a very real risk of injury. To keep things safe during practice and competition, follow these tips.
As fun as it is, ice hockey carries a very real risk of injury. To find out how to stay as safe as possible, follow these tips.
Inline skating is good exercise and an excellent off-season training program for hockey and skiing. To stay safe while inline skating, take a look at these tips.
When everyone's moving so fast and using sticks to sling a solid rubber ball around, injuries are bound to happen in lacrosse. Here's how to avoid them.
Injuries can be common, and runners should always be aware of their surroundings. To keep things safe while running, follow these tips.
Skateboarding is undeniably cool, but it's also easy to get hurt. Keep it safe while skateboarding with these safety tips.
There's a lot to love about skiing, but it can also present some very real dangers. Follow these tips to stay safe on the slopes.
Sledding is a lot of fun, but can also cause injuries, some of them pretty serious. To keep yourself safe while sledding, follow these safety tips.
Snowboarding is a great way to have fun, but it can also present some very real dangers. Follow these safety tips to learn how to stay safe on the slopes.
Soccer is easy to learn at a young age, and it's great exercise. But it's also a contact sport, and injuries are bound to happen. To help prevent mishaps, follow these safety tips.
To keep things as safe as possible for swimming season, follow these tips.
Injuries in tennis are rare, but it's good to be aware before you play. To minimize your risk of injury while playing tennis, follow these safety tips.
Following these tips can help protect you from injuries while playing volleyball.
In wrestling, injuries are bound to happen sometimes. To keep things as safe as possible, follow these tips.
Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to get a sports physical.
Sports supplements are products used to enhance athletic performance. Lots of people who want to improve their performance have questions about how supplements work and whether they're safe.
Playing hard doesn't have to mean getting hurt. The best way to ensure a long and injury-free athletic career is to play it safe from the start. Find out how.
Is working out with weights safe for teens? The best way to build muscle tone and definition is to combine aerobic and flexibility exercises with the right kind of strength training.
You may have heard mixed things about stretching before working out. Here are the cold, hard facts on warming up, stretching, and cooling down.
Sometimes our ideas and beliefs stand in the way of asking for help. Here are ideas for teens on how to get past 5 common barriers to getting help.
Getting help with emotions or stress is the same as getting help with a medical problem like asthma or diabetes. This article explains how therapy works and how it can help with problems.
Some people cope by cutting themselves. This article helps friends understand why people cut and gives some tips on what you can to help your friend — and yourself.
Find out what the experts have to say.
It's hard to know how to respond when someone you love — someone your own age — is diagnosed with cancer. Here are some thoughts on dealing with feelings and helping your friend.
Sure, you've heard of diabetes. But how much do you really know about what it's like to have it? Read our tips on helping a friend with diabetes.
People who have HIV might feel alone and frightened at times. More than anyone, they need good friends like you to lean on and trust.
People with sickle cell disease need good friends who understand and can help them get through tough times. This article for teens helps you learn what you can do to be that friend.
Do you know someone who is having major problems? No matter how bad things get, running away is never a solution. Find out how to help your friend.
Have you heard that people who talk about suicide won't go through with it? That's not true. Read this article to learn some of the other warning signs that a person is considering suicide.
School counselors can give you all sorts of tips and support on solving problems and making good decisions. But how do you meet with a counselor and what is it like? Find out here.
Your best resource for health information and advice is your doctor - the person who knows you, your medical history, and accurate medical information to answer your questions.
Whether it's an everyday issue like schoolwork or an emergency situation, these tips can help you improve communications with your parents and other adults.
In this video, teens talk about what stresses them out and how they cope.
Being able to predict how other people might feel, act, or react is a skill that helps us build better relationships. These tips can help you develop the skill of understanding others.
Thousands of you filled out our friendship survey. Find out what some of you said about being a good friend.
Feeling grateful for what we have (instead of obsessing about what we don't) can help us get more out of life. This worksheet is designed to get you thinking about gratitude.
This quiz can give you insight into things that might affect your self-esteem so you can learn how to build and protect it.
Positivity is fun to practice – as well as a great way to learn more about yourself. This worksheet is designed to help you explore 10 common positive emotions.
Everyone gets rejected at some point. Get some insight into your coping skills by taking this quiz for teens.
If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.
These 5 tips can help you disagree with someone in a constructive way - without losing it or shying away from how you feel.
Stressed out about speaking or performing in front of people? These tips can help you cope.
We all face grief at some point. Here are 5 ideas that might help you cope when someone you love has died.
We all get worried or nervous about things. Here are 5 ways to control anxiety.
Everyday stressors have a way of piling up if we don't keep them in check. Adding these 5 simple actions to your regular routine can help you avoid that "bogged down by stress" feeling.
If shyness is putting a hold on your social life, here are 5 ideas that might help.
What makes people happy? How can you boost your own happiness? This site has information and activities based on the science of positive psychology to help you succeed, make a difference, handle difficult emotions, and build good relationship skills.
Choosing your mood means being in control of it instead of feeling like it's controlling you. Here are tips on how to create the right mood to help you succeed at what you're trying to do.
Gratitude doesn't just feel good. Focusing on what's good in our lives can also be good for us. Find out how in this article for teens.
Teens need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. But you might not be getting it. Here's why - and tips for getting more shut-eye.
People who do a good job of managing emotions know that it's healthy to express their feelings, but that it matters how they express them. Get tips in this article for teens.
Mindfulness helps people do their best at things, whether that's focusing on a task or getting along with others. This article for teens has details on practicing mindfulness so you can make it work for you.
Being mindful helps people do better in just about every part of life, like focusing on homework or feeling less stressed out. This article for teens has 5 exercises to practice building mindfulness skills.
The virtual world is full of opportunities to interact with people around the world. It's also a place where nothing is temporary. Here are some tips for safeguarding your online identity.
This meditation helps us feel connected to and grateful for the people in our lives. Listen as we guide you through this meditation.
Breathing exercises help us slow down and relax. Let our audio recordings coach you through 3 simple breathing exercises: finger-count breathing, smiling breath, and belly breathing.
Yoga is a great way to take a study break because it refocuses and re-energizes both the body and mind. This routine uses poses that work for teens.
Sending and receiving messages late at night can disrupt your sleep and leave you tired and unfocused when it's time for school.
Scientists are learning that positive emotions have a powerful effect on our brains and bodies, helping us feel, and act, our best. Let this article help you tap into the power of positive emotions.
Unwind after a long day at school with this yoga routine for teens.
Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.
Looking for a workout program that's easy to learn, requires little or no equipment, and soothes your soul while toning your body? Read about yoga - and watch our slideshow for some easy poses to try.
Yoga can help reduce stress because it promotes relaxation, which is the natural opposite of stress. These tips for teens can help you tap into yoga's stress-reducing benefits.
Breathing and meditation techniques can have subtle but powerful effects on everything from stress to sports performance. Try these four techniques.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say!
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
Find out what the experts have to say.
All over the world, people are staying home due to coronavirus (COVID-19). Social distancing is something we all can do to make a big difference. It's not easy, but these tips can help.
Do you wonder why you fly off the handle so easily sometimes? Do you wish you knew healthier ways to express yourself when you're steamed? Check out this article for help with dealing with anger.
Negative emotions are impossible to avoid and everyone feels them from time to time. They may be difficult, but they don't have to be stressful. Find out how to deal with stressful feelings.
Your body's changing - and if you've ever felt out of step with it, you're not alone. Find out how to deal with body changes and feelings in this article.
We all have problems with self-esteem at certain times in our lives. Here are some tips that might help.
If you've been cutting and you want to stop, here are some approaches that might help you.
Because of all the changes taking place in your life, you may feel like you're on an emotional roller coaster. Find out more about bad moods and why you have them.
Does your boyfriend or girlfriend treat you as well as you treat him or her? Does your BF or GF support you in good times as well as bad? Does he or she get who you really are? Find out if you're in a healthy relationship.
Coming out (or not) is a personal choice that depends on you and your situation. Learn more in this article for teens.
Are you on the outside looking in or the inside wanting out? Find out how to deal with cliques in this article for teens.
How well we get through a stressful situation depends a lot on us. It's how we deal with that makes all the difference. Here are some ways to understand and manage stress.
Using technology to bully is a problem that's on the rise. The good news is awareness of how to prevent cyberbullying is growing even faster. See our tips on what to do.
Bullying has everyone worried, not just the people on its receiving end. Learn about dealing with bullies, including tips on how to stand up for yourself or a friend.
If you're dealing with your parents' divorce, it may seem hard, but it is possible to cope and have a good family life in spite of the changes divorce can bring.
If a person is struggling with extra weight, it can add to the emotional ups and downs of being a teen. Get some tips on coping here.
Winning is all that matters when you play sports, right? Not when that means you can't even enjoy the game. Read about how to handle sports pressure and competition.
If you suffer from a chronic illness, you know it can be anything but fun. But you can become better informed and more involved in your care. Here are tips to help you deal.
If someone close to you has died, you probably feel overwhelmed with grief. Read about some things that might help you cope.
Stressed out by your parents' money worries? Check out our tips for handling tough times.
Breaking up means having an awkward or difficult conversation. Here are some ideas on what to say and how to say it - and why it's best to break up in person.
People who do a good job of managing emotions know that it's healthy to express their feelings, but that it matters how they express them. Get tips in this article for teens.
Even if you're having a bad day, you don't feel popular, or you're having trouble at school, your pet loves you. So losing a pet can be heartbreaking. This article outlines some ways to cope.
Responding to peer pressure is part of human nature — but some people are more likely to give in, and others are better able to resist and stand their ground. Find out how to make the right choices for you.
Rejection hurts. But it's impossible to avoid. Life is about going for things. And when we do, rejection is always a possibility.
Just like other kinds of bullying, sexual bullying is intended to hurt, offend, or intimidate another person. Find out how to recognize sexual bullying and harassment and what to do.
The transition from middle school to high school is an important one. Here are a few topics that commonly worry incoming freshmen and some things you might want to know about them.
Because everyone's situation is different, there are no easy answers to accepting a stepparent. But here are some ideas to help you deal.
In this video, teens talk about their experiences with bullying.
Everyone feels a little nervous and stressed before a test. And a touch of nervous anticipation can actually help keep you at peak performance. But for some people, this normal anxiety is more intense.
It isn't easy to start over. Read this article to learn some ways to cope with the stress of moving.
Serious stress can come from dealing with a personal crisis, a disaster, a health crisis, or a mental health condition that feels out of control. Here's what to do when stress gets really serious.
Abuse can take many forms. This article talks about recognizing abuse, its effects, and what someone who is being abused can do.
Abuse has no place in love. Read this article to find out how to recognize the signs of abuse and how you can get help.
The definition of binge drinking in the United States is the consumption of five or more drinks in a row by men – or four or more drinks in a row by women – at least once in the previous two weeks. Surprised? Find out more.
For some people, worries about appearance become extreme and upsetting, interfering with their lives, a condition called body dysmorphic disorder.
Sleep problems can keep some teens awake at night even when they want to sleep. If that sounds like you, find out what you can do.
Alcoholism causes anguish not only for the person who drinks, but for everyone who is involved with that person. But there are things you can do to help cope with the problems alcoholism creates in families.
It can be hard to understand, but people who cut themselves sometimes do it because it actually makes them feel better. They are overflowing with emotions - like sadness, depression, or anger - that they have trouble expressing.
Find out what you can do if you think you or a friend has a drug or alcohol addiction - from recognizing the warning signs to suggestions to help you stay clean.
Bullying has everyone worried, not just the people on its receiving end. Learn about dealing with bullies, including tips on how to stand up for yourself or a friend.
If you're dealing with your parents' divorce, it may seem hard, but it is possible to cope and have a good family life in spite of the changes divorce can bring.
If someone close to you has died, you probably feel overwhelmed with grief. Read about some things that might help you cope.
Depression is very common. For more information about depression and feeling better, check out this article.
We've all eaten a whole bag of chips out of boredom or while cramming for a big test. Learn more about emotional eating, and how to manage it, in this article for teens.
Sometimes after experiencing a traumatic event, a person has a strong and lingering reaction known as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Getting treatment and support can make all the difference.
There are many downsides to experimenting with prescription drugs. Find out more in this article for teens.
Rape is forced, unwanted sexual intercourse. Rape is about power, not sex. Both men and women of any age can be raped. Find out what you can do and how to take care of yourself after a rape.
It's natural to feel self-conscious, nervous, or shy sometimes. But for some people, the anxiety that goes with feeling shy or self-conscious can be extreme, and it can take over their lives. Get the facts on social phobia here.
We all feel overwhelmed by difficult emotions or situations sometimes. Here are the warning signs of suicide and ways to get help.
These videos show what's involved in getting a blood test and what it's like to be the person taking the blood sample.
This video shows what it's like to get a CAT scan.
Emily was adopted from Russia, where she was born with a type of dwarfism. In this video, she talks about her life philosophy and how she overcame the many hurdles she faced.
These videos guide you through 8 dynamic stretches that target different muscles and areas of the body.
This video shows what it's like to have an electrocardiogram (EKG for short).
These career videos help high school students get an idea of what's involved in doing specific health and medical jobs.
This video shows what it's like to get an IV.
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. In this video he talks about what inspired him and how he stayed on track.
This video shows what it's like to get an MRI.
This video shows what it's like to get a spirometry test.
This video shows what it's like to get a strep test.
In this video series, teens talk about their experiences with bullying, stress, family life, managing health problems, staying fit, eating right — and what it means to be in love.
This video shows what it's like to get an upper GI test.
This video shows what it's like to get a urine test.
Video: What Happens in Diabetes?
These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.
Unwind after a long day at school with this yoga routine for teens.
This video shows what it's like to get an X-ray.
© 2021 Rady Children's Hospital–San Diego