Supporting Young People’s Health and Well-being Through Education

Adolescence is a significant stage of life, bringing changes that can affect young people’s physical health, mental well-being, and emotional development. Creating supportive environments where young people feel heard, understood, and empowered is essential to helping them thrive.

International Adolescent Health Week (IAHW) is a global initiative that celebrates young people and promotes their health and well-being. Hosted by the International Association for Adolescent Health (IAAH), it brings together young people, healthcare professionals, teachers, families, and communities to raise awareness of adolescent health and encourage positive change. Its vision is to empower young people to enjoy a healthy, confident, and successful transition into adulthood. ⁠Source: IAAH.

Education plays a vital role in achieving these goals. At Breathe, we support teachers and early years professionals by providing evidence-based training, educational resources, and guidance to promote mental health and well-being in the young people they support. By equipping educators with practical knowledge and tools, BreatheEducation helps schools and early years settings create more supportive environments for children and young people.

Both initiatives highlight the importance of collaboration, awareness, and accessible education in improving young people’s lives. When educators, families, health professionals, and communities work together, they can help young people develop the confidence, resilience, and skills needed to navigate the challenges of adolescence.

Ultimately, supporting adolescent health means looking beyond physical health alone. Mental well-being, emotional support, and access to trusted information are equally important. By promoting initiatives such as International Adolescent Health Week and BreatheEducation, we can help build a future in which every young person has the opportunity to feel supported, flourish, and reach their full potential.

References

• ⁠International Association for Adolescent Health (IAAH): https://iaah.org/about-iahw