Adolescents

During adolescence, which generally happens between the ages of 10 and 19, an individual goes through a vital period of growth and development. He or she may grow several inches over multiple months and undergo changes with sexual maturation, also known as puberty. The teenage years can cause physical, mental, and social changes in the adolescent, such as peer pressure, interest or engagement in romantic relationships, and desire for independence from parents. Physical, mental, emotional, or behavioral health problems can arise during this time as well. Depending on the illness, drugs may be prescribed to aid recovery.

An adolescent is at risk for a vast number of physical ailments; treatments vary by illness and severity. For example, almost 80 percent of U.S. adolescents will develop acne, ...