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Teenager FAQ

Growing up comes with a lot of questions and that’s completely normal.

Our Teen FAQ page is designed to provide helpful, trustworthy information about the topics that matter most to teens and parents. 

We believe every teenager deserves a safe, respectful space to ask questions and learn about their health. Explore the topics below to find answers, tips, and guidance from our pediatric care team.

  • Starting at 14, we offer teens a chance to see the doctor alone without a parent in the room. Adolescents are encouraged to take charge of their basic medical care, for example, knowing what medicines they take or are allergic to. Usually the teen will do a better job of answering their own medical questions if the parent is not in the room. We also find that a teen may ask more personal questions when not in front of a parent. However, we will not exclude a parent from the room if the parent wishes to be there, or the child requests that they stay.

  • In 2016, US Preventative Services Task Force began recommending a screening for depression in children ages 12-18. Depression is a leading cause of disability in the U.S. Children and adolescents with depression may have trouble in their performance at school, interactions with friends and family and with basic daily activities.

  • If the patient is 18 or older, they legally must give us the authorization to allow a parent access to their medical record.

  • Screen Time & Teen Health

    Spending too much time on phones, computers, TVs, and gaming devices can affect sleep, school performance, physical activity, and quality family time. Excessive screen use may also be linked to attention difficulties, anxiety, and depression.

    Technology can also have positive benefits for teens, including educational activities, creativity, and staying connected with friends and family. The key is maintaining a healthy balance and staying involved in your teen’s online activity.

    How Much Screen Time is Recommended?

    The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends limiting recreational screen time for children and teens ages 5–18 to about 2 hours per day when possible. While this may be challenging in today’s digital world, parents can still help teens become more mindful of how much time they spend on screens each day.

    Screen time should not replace healthy habits such as:

    • Getting enough sleep

    • Physical activity and exercise

    • Homework and studying

    • In-person social interaction

    • Family time

    Screen Time Tips

    • Set consistent screen time limits and routines

    • Keep devices out of bedrooms at night

    • Encourage outdoor activities and family interaction

    • Monitor apps, games, and websites

    • Model healthy screen habits as a parent

For Young Adults transitioning, Check out our "The Next Milestone Brochure"

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