Too Many Young People Today Have Unhealthy Lifestyles

Too Many Young People Today Have Unhealthy Lifestyles Essay Planning

For the motion Modern life does little to encourage health Obesity Television, computers in bedrooms etc. Parents’ fear of children playing outside Too much money – junk food – alcohol – cigarettes etc. Focus on study means teens don’t have enough free time • Peer pressure to go out and party • Not just physical health but mental health – drugs, cyberbullying etc. • • •

Thesis • It is a problem caused by our modern lifestyle • Fast pace of life and fast pace of technological advances mean that it is difficult to keep track of the effects these changes have • If we examine the issues and address them, we may come up with some solutions • Can’t go back to our parents’ era, so must face challenges and adapt to cope

Facts, figures and quotes • Last ten years, weight problems have doubled • One in five fifteen year olds is obese • Some under-sixteens admit to drinking ten units of alcohol a week • One quarter of fifteen year olds are regular smokers • One in three has tried cannabis • Health of teenagers is deteriorating at the same time that health of other groups is improving

Proposed solutions? • Increased parental involvement • Wider range of sports available in schools • After school sports should focus on participation rather than just winning • Encourage regular health checks with doctors coming to schools and explaining situation to teens • Encourage teens to take responsibility for their own health • Schools should make cookery lessons compulsory • Older students could mentor younger ones • Use technology in a positive way: apps to track fitness, weight loss, diet etc.

Conclusion • It is a problem, and a growing one • However, we should focus on what can be done rather than blaming teens for existing situation