Young adults encounter a new and unfamiliar world as they move from their teens to being an adult. It may be a world of further and higher education that is very different than school, full-time jobs and other responsibilities as part of their adult lives.
Striving for independence
Relationships will continue to change for people in their 20s and 30s. There is enormous responsibility and a real desire to achieve independence particularly from their parents.
Being a healthy young adult
For most people this will be a time of good health, although there are big differences between individuals, and in terms of physical performance, strength and flexibility young adults will reach their peak. It is at times like this that keeping fit and ensuring that you participate in regular dental check ups and hygiene become very important.
There are several ways to find a dentist. The first is to ask someone and gain a recommendation. The second is to look in the Yellow Pages where all dentists are listed for your area or contact NHS Direct or visit NHS Choices who have a list of all local NHS dentists.
For women, fertility is at its highest so these years will see the most pregnancies.
It is essential to participate in screening programmes. Cervical cancer screening will start when you are 25 and every three years after. On certain occasions it may be necessary to undertake an internal vaginal examination but if this is necessary it will be explained as well as your rights.
Breast screening will not normally take place until you are aged 50 but you are advised to be "breast aware". which involves noting any changes which may occurr in your breasts. For more information on screening:
0151 708 8157 (breast)
www.cancerscreening.nhs.uk
Contact your GP for an appointment (cervical)
Or contact the Healthy Communities Collaborative at NHS Liverpool Primary Care Trust.
Isolation and Togetherness
As time progresses, young adults are likely to settle down and gain some stability either in what occupies them and in relationships. Research suggests that some of the greatest needs of a young adult relates to intimacy and sexual activity. Without these some people may feel isolated.
There are numerous resources in place to help people connect but it is important to think carefully about a long-term relationship. You should try to make new friends as you can but accept that not all friendships work or become long-term. It is normal to disagree and argue sometimes. A friend is someone that you get to know, like and trust, and will accept you for who you are.
For advice on understanding your relationship and sorting out common problems:
www.bbc.co.uk/relationships
Forging an identity
Becoming an adult is a form of coming of age and there are numerous things you will be increasingly able to do from drinking, to driving, to holding your own passport to consenting to sex.
There are quite a few different age limits and you may sometimes have to prove your age or identity for example when you enter licenced premises or attempt to purchase something with an age limit.
You can apply for a card accredited by the Proof of Age Standards Scheme supported by the Government, Police and Trading Standards.
Addictions
At any time of our lives we can form habits or behaviours; most are easy for us to deal with but if they start to dominate our lives and we feel powerless to stop then it is likely that we have an addiction.
There are well known addictions such as those related to alcohol, smoking and drugs. There can be many more addictions including sexual activity, shopping, and food and gambling – many things can become an addiction. If your behaviour is addictive then you need to first recognise that and second act to seek the help and support you need.
Fortunately, addiction can be tackled and you can learn about the illness and sources of help from:
Liverpool Addiction Advisor 0845 287 7522
For help and support related to gambling and how to gamble responsibly call the GamCare National Helpline
0845 6000 133
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