South Shore Hospital’s
Youth Health Connection

Targeting Health Threats

During childhood and adolescence, patterns of behavior are established and lifestyle choices are made that affect both current and future health. The decisions young people make can have consequential positive or adverse affects on their physical and mental well-being. At the same time, they are dealing with environmental and societal factors beyond their control that may also contribute to the health challenges they face. The Youth Health Connection is designed to help local communities and schools create the best environment to ensure healthy lives for their children.

The issues we target:

• High risk behavior

• Depression and anxiety

• Suicide prevention

• Motor vehicle accidents

• Bullying, aggression and violence

• Alcohol and substance use

• Sexual behavior

• Recommended diet for age, obesity and eating disorders

• Tobacco use (smoking and smokeless forms: chewing, dip, etc.)

• Inactivity

• Obesity

• Peer pressure

• Transition to College

• ADHD/Learning Differences

• Linking physical/mental health to success in learning

• Connecting the Generations

• Minor Traumatic Brain Injury (concussion): SSH ImPACT program

• Disease and illness: Asthma, Diabetes, Allergies…

• Grief