Fedhealth gives teenagers support

Youth Day is time for people to take a step back and to celebrate the upcoming generation.

One of the sad things in a world so busy with its own needs and worries is that teens often feel isolated and that there is no one or nowhere to turn to in times of stress or crisis. More and more youngsters are therefore turning to drugs, alcohol and other damaging behaviour in search of some release or relief. Drug and alcohol abuse is an increasing and worrying threat to our society and is causing major concern for community leaders, teachers and parents because substance abuse not only affects the person involved, but all their loved ones as well.

Fedhealth principal officer, Peter Jordan said, “In today’s society, teenagers are faced with more peer pressure and stress than ever before and the important message we want to send using our Teen Line service, is that teenagers do not need to feel alone.” Teen Line is a 24-hour service provided by this medical scheme and caters specially for the concerns of young people and offers advice and counselling to teenage members on any physical, emotional and sexual questions and problems they may be experiencing.

The Teen Line service is run by a team of professional experts and nurses who are trained to address such issues in a sensitive manner. “We speak to the teens in their home language and advice is given with respect and confidentially,” says Jordan.

Being able to talk to someone is a big part of healing. Often it just takes a sympathetic ear or a little guidance to prevent another young life falling through the cracks. Jordan noted that teens are a lot stronger than they think they are.

They often just need to be given some coping tools and techniques to get them through a problem situation. Jordan concluded by urging young people to use the resourses that are there for them to get the support and help they need.

Details: www.fedhealth.co.za