How Teens Can Make Informed Health Decisions

Written By: Gianna Matta

September 21, 2025

As teens grow more independent, making health decisions becomes part of everyday life. From food choices to exercise to mental well-being, the decisions made now can have a big impact later. That’s why learning how to make informed choices is so important. It gives teens confidence and helps them stay healthy in both body and mind.

Understanding Reliable Information

With so much information online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or misled. The first step to making informed decisions is knowing how to find trustworthy sources. Teens can look for guidance from doctors, school health staff, or reliable websites backed by health organizations. Learning to question what’s real and what’s just a trend helps build better judgment.

Balancing Physical and Mental Health

Health isn’t just about eating well or exercising. It is also about caring for your mental and emotional needs. Teens should ask themselves, "Am I getting enough rest?" Do I feel stressed? Am I making time to relax and recharge? Paying attention to both physical and mental health allows for smarter, more balanced decisions.

Involving Family and Trusted Adults

Teens don’t have to make health decisions alone. Talking with parents, guardians, or mentors can provide new perspectives and support. Whether it’s deciding on healthier snacks, managing screen time, or figuring out how to handle stress, involving trusted adults ensures teens get the guidance they need.

Building Healthy Habits for the Future

The decisions made today shape habits for tomorrow. By practicing informed decision-making, such as reading nutrition labels, questioning health fads, or choosing balance over extremes, teens create a foundation for lifelong wellness. Small, thoughtful choices now can lead to big benefits in the future.