Bright Futures Patient Handout: 18-21 Year Visits
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Physical Growth and Development
Your Daily Life
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Visit the dentist at least twice a year.
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Protect your hearing at work, home, and concerts.
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Eat a variety of healthy foods.
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Eat breakfast every morning.
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Drink plenty of water.
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Make sure to get enough calcium.
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Aim for 1 hour of vigorous physical activity.
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Be proud of yourself when you do something well.
Risk Reduction
Healthy Behavior Choices
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Support friends who choose not to use drugs, alcohol, tobacco, steroids, or diet pills.
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If you use drugs or alcohol, you can talk to us about it. We can help you with quitting or cutting down on your use.
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Make healthy decisions about your sexual behavior.
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If you are sexually active, always practice safe sex. Always use a condom to prevent STIs.
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All sexual activity should be something you want. No one should ever force or try to convince you.
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Find safe activities at school and in the community.
Violence and Injury Prevention
Violence and Injuries
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Do not drink and drive or ride in a vehicle with someone who has been using drugs or alcohol.
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Always wear a seat belt in the car.
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Know the rules for safe driving.
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Never allow physical harm of yourself or others at home or school.
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Always deal with conflict using nonviolence.
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Remember that healthy dating relationships are built on respect and that saying “no” is OK.
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Fighting and carrying weapons can be dangerous.
Emotional Well-Being
Your Feelings
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Figure out healthy ways to deal with stress.
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Try your best to solve problems and make decisions on your own.
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Most people have daily ups and downs. But if you are feeling sad, depressed, nervous, irritable, hopeless, or angry, talk with me or another health professional.
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We understand sexuality is an important part of your development. If you have any questions or concerns, we are here for you.
Social and Academic Competence
School and Friends
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Take responsibility for being organized enough to succeed in work or school.
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Find new activities you enjoy.
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Consider volunteering and helping others in the community on an issue that interests or concerns you.
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Form healthy friendships and find fun, safe things to do with friends.
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As you get older, making and keeping friends is important. You may find that you drift away from some of your old friends—that's normal.
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Evaluate your friendships and keep those that are healthy.
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It is still important to stay connected with your family.
© 2010 American Academy of Pediatrics