Lack of focus, alcohol consumption, procrastination, smoking, and poor sleeping are common issues that many Americans struggle with, but if they are developed without proper combatants, they can turn into major problems down the road. As the years go on, habits developed in youth will become detrimental to overall health. Pushing off assignments at seventeen will manifest itself as severe avoidance issues, a lack of personal boundaries will cause toxic relations throughout life, and an excessive use of illegal substances will develop into alcohol and drug abuse down the road. The youth of today need to understand that the habits they pick up now will heavily impact their lives in the future, for better or for worse.
Until the age of 25, for most, the frontal lobe of the brain isn’t fully developed. Between the ages of 1 and 25, addictive habits and poor choices become increasingly common. One act of avoidance or procrastination as a teenager turns into multiple acts of putting off important tasks and projects simply because it has become a habit. Schools, community centers, and public spaces offer help for excessive drug and alcohol use, but there isn’t much help for any other problems. Of course, there are wellness surveys that get sent out and additional support from school counselors and staff members, yet the likelihood of honest participation or liability is very low. The lack of support for these issues in schools and while growing up is harmful to American society.
“Certain behaviors in adolescence can cause serious problems later in life if not addressed. Poor emotional control—like trouble managing anger or anxiety—can lead to impulsive actions, aggression, or avoidance,” wrote Petya Todorovska, an ETHS school psychologist. “Defying authority and refusing responsibility can result in difficulties with jobs, relationships, and even legal trouble. Skipping school and isolating oneself may harm emotional well-being, communication skills, and future career success. Avoiding accountability—making excuses or not following through on commitments—can cause financial and job instability. Unhealthy relationship habits, such as manipulation or control, can lead to unstable personal lives.”
A 2019 study by the NIH (Biotechnology Information branch) found that with age, unhealthy behaviors increased significantly from 29.0 percent for ages 2-5 to 73.9 percent for ages 16-19. The most common health behavior combination was excessive screen time and poor diet (from 14.4 percent prevalence for ages 2-5 to 45.3 percent for ages 16-19). Evanston Township High School has extensively limited phone usage and provides reduced fat, sugar drinks, and snacks, but is that enough? Students are still using their phones in class, leading to excessive screen time and addiction, and more than half of the food in the vending machines is still unhealthy without sugar. If schools want to combat these problems, then they need to add more curriculums and support systems than just bans and restrictions.
“Improving unhealthy behaviors starts with self-awareness. Recognizing negative patterns is key, and strategies like therapy, journaling, and mindfulness can help. Seeking professional support through counseling or mentorship provides guidance. Healthy coping mechanisms—like exercise, meditation, or talking to a trusted person—are better alternatives to anger, avoidance, or substance use,” said Todorovska. “Taking responsibility for actions, apologizing sincerely, and making efforts to improve relationships foster growth. Surrounding yourself with positive, responsible influences also helps. Developing emotional intelligence—understanding emotions, showing empathy, and improving communication—leads to better personal and professional relationships. Setting goals and maintaining structure may support lasting change.”