Was it hard to change? Why?

Changing a behavior isn’t easy. It’s a process that takes planning, time, determination, skills, hard work and support. It’s not just a matter of “willpower.”

Unhealthy behaviors can affect your physical, emotional or social health. What are some behaviors you can think of that negatively affect the health of adolescents today?

Adolescent health problems may include: Smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, using drugs, having sex, not exercising, too much stress, not eating enough vegetables, not drinking enough water, being overweight, lack of sleep, not eating breakfast, not eating lunch, bullying or disrespecting others, getting involved in a gang, gambling, drinking too many sodas, eating too much fast food, not wearing a safety belt, not wearing a helmet or sports equipment, smoking marijuana, problems talking to parents

Turn to “My Unhealthy Behavior” on page 3.

This is your own personal activity sheet to complete. First review all of the unhealthy adolescent behaviors listed on the board. Then decide which of these unhealthy behaviors you have a list them in Part 1 of the activity sheet. You may have some that aren’t on the list.

Adolescent health problems may include: Smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, using drugs, having sex, not exercising, too much stress, not eating enough vegetables, not drinking enough water, being overweight, lack of sleep, not eating breakfast, not eating lunch, bullying or disrespecting others, getting involved in a gang, gambling, drinking too many sodas, eating too much fast food, not wearing a safety belt, not wearing a helmet or sports equipment, smoking marijuana, problems talking to parents

Now think about 1 unhealthy behavior you would like to change. You might think about behaviors that your parents or friends have encouraged you to change, but the decision is ultimately yours to make. Write this behavior in Part 2 of the activity sheet. Be sure it’s a behavior that you’re willing to share with a trusted adult.

For Part 3 of the activity sheet, think about why you might want to change this behavior and list these reasons. Then explain how changing this behavior would improve your overall health.

You will share the behavior your want to change with a trusted adult, and ask this adult for advice about changing the behavior. Complete questions 1 and 2 in class, and then take the sheet home to complete question 3 with the help of a trusted adult.