Well Visit, Your Teen: Care Instructions

Your relationship with your teen is likely going through a lot of changes. Your teen may want to skip some family activities and do more on their own. Your love, understanding, and guidance can help your teen make good decisions.

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  Set realistic rules. Talk about what will happen if rules are broken, and follow through.

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  Plan one-on-one time with your teen. Go for long walks or ride bikes, if you can. Or play games.

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  Put limits on screen time. Too much time spent on smartphones or video games may affect your teen's sleep and healthy eating habits.

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  Remind your teen to be careful online. Talk about what's safe and not safe to share online.

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  Be open to talks about sex and relationships. Tell your teen often that "If you have questions, I'm here for you."

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  Talk about gun safety. If you keep guns in your home, lock them up unloaded. Lock ammunition away from guns.

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  Seek out support if you need it. You could find a counselor for you and your teen. Ask your doctor for a referral.

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  Get help if your teen talks about suicide or self-harm. Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255). Or text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line. Go to 988lifeline.org for more information.

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  Make sure your teen gets all the recommended vaccines. Talk to your teen's doctor if you have questions.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.