How to listen and talk to an adolescent patient

Adolescent patients have specific health problems, needs and concerns. These problems and needs differ substantially from those of adults or children. From a promoting health and preventing illness point of view, adolescence is a particularly important time because it is in these years that many health behaviours are formed and many health problems begin. Choices made by young people often have a considerable impact on their health as adults. By focusing on preventing disease and promoting health during youth, long lasting health benefits will follow.