In India, young adults constitute a significant portion of the population and are the country's future.
With more and more research pointing to the importance of managing one’s health proactively, young people with the advantage of time can start early.
In addition, given the current major health concerns in India such as obesity, depression, and high blood pressure, it is becoming even more important to pay attention to preventive healthcare.
Some of the above conditions, if unchecked, can lead to chronic health issues, and lead to a decreased quality of life.
To proactively take charge of their health, young adults can adopt some simple practices. Some of the proven ones are given below:
Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors
Stay physically active
Engaging in activities like yoga, sports, or brisk walking for at least 30 minutes daily improves cardiovascular health, boosts the immune system, enhances mood, and controls weight.
Eat healthy
A diet abundant in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is key to preventing obesity and lowering the risk of chronic conditions. Traditional Indian diets, which include a variety of spices and a focus on vegetarian dishes, can be pretty beneficial when balanced and portion-controlled.
Stay away from addictive substances
Steer clear of tobacco, which is linked to various chronic illnesses like cancer and cardiovascular disease, and moderate alcohol intake to prevent liver ailments and chemical dependency.
Get Regular Health Screenings
Regular health screenings are important for the early detection of conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and diabetes, which often develop silently and can lead to severe complications if left unchecked.
By identifying such conditions early, individuals can seek timely treatment and make necessary lifestyle adjustments to manage the conditions.
Furthermore, regular check-ups increase health awareness, enabling young adults to make informed decisions about their health and adopt preventive care measures.
In a country like India, experiencing a surge in non-communicable diseases, such proactive health management is beneficial and necessary for the long-term well-being of the individual and the healthcare system at large.
Manage Stress
According to a survey conducted by the International Labour Organization (ILO), nearly 50% of youth are subject to anxiety and depression.
Stress management is particularly important for young adults in India, where the fast-paced lifestyle and societal pressures are major contributing factors to mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Proven practices such as mindfulness and yoga, which are deeply rooted in Indian culture, provide effective ways to calm the mind and reduce stress. Mindfulness encourages individuals to be present in the moment, helping to alleviate worries about the past or future.
Therapy, including counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy, offers a professional approach to managing stress, providing tools to cope with life's challenges.
Together, these practices can support mental well-being and enhance the quality of life for young adults facing the complexities of modern life.
Set Personal Health Goals and Educate Themselves
Young adults can significantly benefit from setting health goals and educating themselves about healthier life choices.
Doing this equips them with the knowledge to understand the intricacies of health risks and the consequences of their lifestyle.
Young adults should ideally develop tailored strategies that align with their unique health needs, thus maximizing the benefits.
This not only encourages the adoption of healthier habits but also instills the confidence to make informed and beneficial health decisions for long-term lifestyle improvements.
Utilize Technology-Based Health Management Tools
In today's digital age, technology offers powerful tools for managing health.
Health apps and fitness trackers are handy for young adults. They provide a convenient and accessible means to monitor various aspects of their health, from tracking physical activity and diet to sleep patterns and heart rate.
By regularly using these technologies, young adults can gain insights into their health metrics, set and adjust personal fitness goals, and maintain motivation through reminders and progress tracking.
The Greater Good
This proactive health management not only leads to improved personal health outcomes but also has broader societal benefits. It can decrease healthcare costs, reduce the strain on medical facilities, and contribute to a more productive workforce.
Collectively, these efforts can lead to a healthier population, which is essential for a community and the nation's economic and social progress.
In essence, the individual's commitment to health is an investment in the collective well-being of society.