Shruti Arun
Adolescents constitute about 20-25% of our population. There are about 1.2 billion adolescents today makeup 16% of the world’s population. Adolescence is probably a key factor in determining the future health of an individual and thus of country. They need to be treated as a distinct segment of our population and it is important to realize and address their health and lifestyle. Adolescence is the developmental epoch during which children becomes adults – intellectually, physically, hormonally and socially. During this transition Period- physical, mental, emotional, hormonal changes occur, this induces fear, stress and strain. Adolescents girls who makes about half of total population have a wide spectrum of gynecological problems includes pubertal growth issues ,nutritional issues , hygiene concern, lifestyle disorders, pelvic and genital infections and issues related to sexuality. Physical and psychosocial factors like -Inadequate sleep, depression, Junk foods, Extreme Dieting, unhygienic practice etc lead to unhealthy behavior among adolescents leading to polycystic ovarian syndrome, obesity, thyroid problems, infections etc. and carry its consequences into adulthood. Amenorrhea, weight gain, diabetes, and hirsutism mark the most important components of the syndrome and require lifestyle management.Lifestyle and behavioral patterns in this group of people need special attention. Ayurveda approach for treating any single aspect of health begins with taking into account the whole of – body, mind and soul or spirit. Similarly it recognizes that any of these three aspects of self- body, mind and soul– can either support when these are balanced well or undermine our well being when they are not. Ayurveda emphasize in particular about menstrual regimen , does and don’t’s during menstrual cycle , behavioral regimen ( Achara Rasayana) . Living a healthy lifestyle is a fundamental component to achieve optimal physical, mental and spiritual well being.
