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Healthy hair is a sign of general well-being and youth. Whitening or greying of hair before the age of 20 years is termed as premature greying.
This can be seen in a few young people; the following are a few things that can be of help to prevent or delay greying:
• Eat a well-balanced diet, including red meat, green leafy vegetables, bean, lentils, fruits and vegetables
• Use natural hair care products, and avoiding harmful chemicals
• Keep the scalp clean by using mild shampoo and conditioner twice a week
• Keep the scalp well nourished by applying coconut oil or other oils
• Get good sleep, 8-10 hours/day
• Avoid hard hair treatment such as dyes, bleaches and perming solutions
• Do not smoke
• Protect hair from exposure to sun’s ultra-violet rays by wearing a hat or using an umbrella
• Reduce and manage stress by exercises, hobbies etc.
Remember there is no guaranteed way to prevent greying of hair, since genetics and the natural aging plays a vital role. But if the cause of greying is due to any of the about mentioned risk factors, you should follow the tips to prevent premature greying of hair.
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This answer is prepared for you by the team at
Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004.
Towards healthy teen years and a healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA through your donations so that we can continue this service for all teenagers.
If you would like to donate, following is the link:
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Caffeinated coffee, tea, soda and sports drinks are not recommended for children less than 12 years, while teens between the ages of 12 and 18 years can take about 1 cup of coffee or 100 mgs of caffeine per day.
You need to restrict caffeine because, it is a stimulant, which will excite central nervous system, making you feel hyperalert, provide a temporary boost of energy, brighten the mood, and helps to focus. The bad effects of caffeine intake include sleeplessness, restlessness, increased urine output, stomach upset, tightening of hands and legs, weak bones, rambling speech and thoughts, increase in heart rate, blood pressure, sleep disturbance and anxiety. Drinking of caffeine during childhood can also decrease brain development and release the happy hormone (Dopamine), which leads to an effect similar to drug addiction.
Therefore, you need to understand that caffeine has many negative effects on many parts of a young person’s growing body & brain and therefore it would be better for you to avoid it. In case you feel that you are addicted to it, please stop drinking all caffeine containing beverages and replace with more healthier options such as milk and fresh fruit juices.
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This answer is prepared for you by the team at
Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004.
Towards healthy teen years and a healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA through your donations so that we can continue this service for all teenagers.
If you would like to donate, following is the link:
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Feeling lonely, even in crowded places, can be challenging and confusing, especially at your age. There could be various reasons contributing to your loneliness:
1. Difficulty Connecting: You might find it challenging to connect with others due to shyness, social anxiety, or feeling different from your peers.
2. Lack of Common Interests: It's possible that you haven't found people who share your interests or hobbies, making it harder to establish connections.
3. Social Skills: Developing social skills takes time, and it can be difficult to initiate and maintain friendships.
4. Bullying: Negative experiences like bullying can lead to feelings of isolation.
5. Low Self-esteem: If you have low self-esteem or struggle with self-confidence, you may doubt your ability to make friends or fear rejection.
It's essential to remember that feeling lonely is a common experience, and you're not alone. Reach out to a trusted adult, like a family member, teacher, or school counsellor, who can offer support and guidance. Exploring hobbies, joining clubs or groups, and participating in activities that interest you can also help you meet like-minded individuals.
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CMC Vellore-632004
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There could be various reasons why you're experiencing abdominal pain. It might stem from an underlying infection or disease, as abdominal pain is often the first sign of an infection. If the pain persists over time, is accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea or any other symptoms, interferes with your daily activities, or affects your appetite, leading to potential weight loss, it's essential to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis. Abdominal pain can also indicate underlying stress or anxiety. It's important to confide in a trusted adult or seek professional assistance about any stress-related issues you may be experiencing.
Often, the cause could be something as simple as dietary and lifestyle factors. Consuming excessive oily or spicy foods, regularly skipping meals, not eating on time, or consuming high-fat foods can contribute to abdominal issues.
Here are some ways you can stay healthy: -
Maintain a balanced diet, with half of your plate consisting of fruits and vegetables.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Limit consumption of junk food.
Avoid skipping meals, especially breakfast.
Practice deep breathing exercises to help calm your mind and body.
Engage in regular physical activity to help reduce stress
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Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004.
Towards healthy teen years and a healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA at the link below so that we can continue this service for all teenagers.
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Although it is not a health-related question, smoking is directly related to one’s health. Hence you as an adolescent ought to understand the compulsions behind this political, economic, health and social issue so that you make an informed choice.
First, it is a political decision to allow cigarette manufacturing and selling by making relevant laws permitting such a business to operate in our country. Because, permitting such a business could bring in economic benefits to a country.
For example, a farmer has to grow tobacco for which he has to prepare the land so he might hire tilling equipment, then, purchase seeds, fertilizers, and manure which is allowing other businesses to flourish. He needs water for which he needs a pump set which in turn needs electricity. The farmer has to transport the tobacco to the factory for which they will need transportation vehicles, roads, fuel and personnel etc. Once the tobacco reaches the factory, they have to process and make it into cigarettes (machinery, buildings and personnel etc). Again, those cigarettes have to be transported to the retail outlets to sell them. All these activities, apart from creating an economic impact in the society, will also be paying taxes to the Government. So, it is allowed in some countries including ours.
The government also has a responsibility towards the citizens health and well-being of its citizens. It’s a delicate balance for the government to play so they demand the cigarette manufacturers to put health risk warning labels on each packet of cigarettes and also spend money on advertising about the risks associated with smoking. This is a health benefit.
Lastly, the consumer has a choice to smoke or not. Despite the well documented health associated risks and warnings, if a consumer makes a choice to smoke, he not only risks his own health but also of others around them, through passive smoking. This is a social issue.
As you know Tobacco has nicotine which is highly addictive. So many marketing strategies are used to lure to target the adolescents because once people get addicted at a young age, they might continue to smoke as adults also.
For you as a teenager, it is important to recognize the value of positive decision making. Your brain is still developing and even a small amount of smoking can have serious effect on brain. If you can have the power to say no to smoking, it is highly likely that you’ll remain free of smoking for the rest of your life.
Instead of asking why do they manufacture cigarettes, let’s ask ourselves this question: “What happens to Tobacco industry if no one smokes”?
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Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004
Towards healthy teen years and healthy adulthood.
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During adolescence, it's common to experience a range of emotions, attractions, and explorations as part of normal identity development. Same-sex attractions or feelings during this phase are common among adolescents. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you will grow up into a homosexual / gay adult.
As a teenager with your growth, you will also develop an identity for yourself. This development of identity involves:
1. Exploration: Trying out different identities, roles, and relationships.
2. Experimentation: Testing boundaries and experiencing new emotions and attractions.
3. Fluidity: Embracing change and uncertainty as part of growth.
As a teenaged boy if you feel attracted to another male, it can be a:
1. Transient phase: A temporary exploration of emotions and attractions.
2. Normal variant: A common aspect of adolescent development.
3. Part of self-discovery: Understanding oneself and one's emotions.
It's essential to remember that:
1. Sexual attraction towards a particular gender is complex and multifaceted.
2. Labels might not always fit or be permanent.
3. Identity including sexual identity can change over time.
If you're experiencing same-sex attractions, remember:
1. You're not alone. Many people go through similar experiences.
2. Take your time. Explore your feelings and identity without pressure.
3. Talk to trusted adults, professionals, or support groups.
Some people may still identify as homosexual, or another label after exploration. This identity can be temporary and eventually fade away as you grow.
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The Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004
Towards healthy teen years and healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA
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Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland (an important endocrine gland in your body) does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This hormone is essential because it helps every cell in your body function properly.
Since your body is not making enough of this hormone, you need to take a medicine called thyroxine regularly. Think of this medicine like food for your body. Just like your body needs daily food to stay healthy, it also needs thyroxine every day.
If you stop taking the medicine:
• Your body can become slow and tired
• Many organs and systems can be affected
• Over time, it can lead to serious health problems
So, it’s very important to take your medication regularly, exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Looking ahead, hypothyroidism does not stop you from having a normal, healthy future—as long as you take your medication properly.
For girls, there is one extra point to remember:
• If you plan to have a baby in the future, continuing thyroxine during pregnancy is very important
• Not taking it can affect the baby’s growth and development
So the key message is simple:
👉 Take your medication daily
👉 Have regular check-ups
👉 Follow your doctor’s advice
With this, you can live a completely normal and healthy life.
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Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004.
Towards healthy teen years and healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA
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Studying can be quite an energy consuming process and feeling hungry while studying is a sign that your brain needs energy. It's common to experience hunger during exams, and eating can help you manage exam-related stress or provide a moment of relaxation and distraction from studying. Teenagers often tend to consume more junk food during this time. Instead of reaching for junk food, try opting for healthier options like fruits and nuts if you feel hungry.
Sometimes, exam stress can lead to binge eating or stress eating. Stress may trigger a response where you eat to relieve that stress, which can result in overeating or problematic eating habits. It's important to control episodes of binge eating by taking scheduled breaks between meals and monitoring your food intake. Binge eating can contribute to weight gain and obesity, so if you notice your weight increasing, consider controlling your food intake and finding alternative ways to distract your mind and relieve stress.
Some alternative methods to avoid binge eating and manage stress include:
Going for a walk or jog,
Listening to music
Engaging in physical activity
Practicing relaxation exercises like deep breathing
Seeking professional help
Also remember, binge eating can lead to a psychiatric condition called binge eating disorder with severe physical and psychological consequences. Hence, it’s better to seek early professional help to avoid binge eating.
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This answer is prepared for you by the team at
Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004.
Towards healthy teen years and a healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA at link given below so that we can continue this service for all teenagers.
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Irregular breast growth can be influenced by a variety of factors, including:
1. Hormonal Imbalance: Hormones like estrogen and progesterone play a crucial role in breast development. An imbalance in these hormones, especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can cause one breast to grow differently than the other.
2. Genetics: Your genes can influence how your breasts develop. It's common for women to have slightly different breast sizes due to inherited traits.
3. Growth Spurts: During puberty, breast tissue may not grow at the same rate, leading to temporary differences in size or shape. This usually evens out over time, but sometimes it remains.
4. Fibroadenomas: These are non-cancerous lumps that can occur in the breast tissue, sometimes causing the breast with the lump to appear larger.
5. Breast Asymmetry: It’s normal for breasts to be slightly asymmetrical. However, significant asymmetry could be due to underlying factors, including hormonal differences or benign breast conditions.
6. Weight Changes: Significant changes in weight can affect breast size since breasts are partly made up of fatty tissue. Rapid weight gain or loss can lead to uneven breast growth.
7. Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, including cysts, infections, or in rare cases, tumors, can lead to irregular breast growth. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you notice significant changes.
If you're concerned about irregular breast growth, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider for a proper assessment and advice on any necessary steps to take.
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The Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004
Towards healthy teen years and healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA
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Adolescence is tough time for many as your body goes through a lot of changes because of puberty. You are not alone if you feel dissatisfied with the way you look. Your body image is how comfortable you feel about your body. Sometimes some experiences like others making fun of you can change the way you feel about yourself and make you feel upset and disappointed. Poor body image comes from negative thoughts and feelings. A healthy body image is made up of thoughts and feelings that are positive about your appearance.
Tips for a developing a healthy body image:
1. The best ways to feel good about your body is to work on having a healthy one: Exercise / outdoor play for at least an hour every day. Eat nutritious food and maintain a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, and restrict recreational screen time. This will help you develop a healthy body, and a healthy attitude towards yourself.
1. Participate in a variety of sports or activities to stay healthy and fit.
2. Develop new hobbies and explore hidden talents like playing an instrument, art, creative work etc.
3. Write your thoughts and emotions related to your body image in a special notebook. Try to ask yourself if the negative comments and thoughts are true and whether they are relevant You should not allow someone else to control the way you feel about yourself. When you think of yourself focus on your whole self and not just your appearance. Focus on positive aspects of yourself, your unique qualities and skills, talents.
4. If you feel that you are preoccupied with these thoughts and it is affecting your daily activities, talk to a trusted adult about it.
Building a healthy body image can be hard work. It takes time to accept yourself and be confident about yourself.
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This answer is prepared for you by the team at
Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004.
Towards healthy teen years and a healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA through your donations so that we can continue this service for all teenagers.
If you would like to donate, following is the link:
https://give.do/fundraisers/project-yuva(https://give.do/fundraisers/project-yuva)
Breast enlargement is a natural part of puberty and development, but whether it’s "good" or "bad" depends on personal perspective and how you feel about your body. Here’s a bit more information:
Is Breast Enlargement Good or Bad?-
• Good: For many, breast development is a natural and positive part of growing up. It’s a sign that your body is developing normally and can enhance your self-esteem if you’re comfortable with your body.
• Challenging: For some, larger breasts can cause physical discomfort, like back or shoulder pain, or emotional discomfort, leading to self-consciousness. It might also be hard to find clothes that fit comfortably.
How Can Breast Size Be Reduced?
1. Healthy Diet and Exercise: Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage breast size, especially if it’s linked to body fat.
2. Supportive Bras: Wearing well-fitted, supportive bras can help with the appearance of your breasts and also relieve discomfort.
3. Consult a Doctor: If breast size causes physical pain or significant emotional distress, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider. They can discuss options, including non-surgical and surgical methods like reduction mammoplasty.
4. Hormonal Factors: Sometimes, breast size can be influenced by hormonal changes. If you notice sudden changes, it’s worth discussing with a doctor to rule out any underlying issues.
It's important to embrace your body as it develops, and to make choices that support your well-being and comfort.
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This answer is prepared for you by the experts at
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Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004
Towards healthy teen years and healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA
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It is a registered public charitable trust (under Indian Trusts Act) in Vellore, Tamilnadu (registration number: 1268 of 2004). Our registered office is located in Vellore and we have nine board of trustees to govern the organization.
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Area of our focus is children and the approach that we follow is 'rights based'. Broadly our activities are divided into three categories namely 'institutional' care, 'non-institutional' care and undertaken projects.
In institutional care, we take in children that need care and protection and cater to their needs till they are reintegrated in to their communities. We have two institutions namely:
1. Children's home
2. Specialized Adoption Agency
Our institutional care services are rendered at our facility in Karigiri.
In non-institutinoal care service category, we again cater to the needs of children that need care and protection but can be remained in their own communities by receiving help that they need. Currently we have two projects.
1. COP (Community Outreach Program): This program is meant for the families that are burdened with HIV/ Disability/ Child Labor and Tuberculosis.
2. Project YUVA (Project for the Young people to Understand and Verbalize Adolescence) in partnership with Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore and Childline India Foundation (CIF), Mumbai.
Lastly, under the category of 'undertaken' projects of which both belong to the Government of India.
1. Childline Sub-Center: This is child emergency helpline which is implemented in Ranipet District.
2. Childline Sub-Center: This is a child help desk run for the runaway and vulnerable children at Jolarpet railway junction.
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It's completely normal to feel self-conscious about your height, especially at 18. During this stage of puberty, boys typically grow until around 16-18 years old. Keep in mind that your potential height is largely influenced by your parents' height, so you're likely to reach a similar height as your father.
1. Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium, vitamin D, and protein, can support healthy bone growth. Make sure you get enough fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products.
2. Sleep: Your body releases growth hormones while you sleep, so getting 8-10 hours of quality sleep each night is essential.
3. Exercise: Regular physical activity, especially exercises that promote good posture and spine flexibility, can help you stand taller and may support overall growth. Stretching, yoga, swimming, and hanging exercises are all beneficial.
4. Posture: Good posture can make you appear taller. Avoid slouching, and practice standing and sitting up straight with your shoulders back.
5. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is important for overall health, including the health of your bones and muscles.
6. Avoid Growth Stunters: Smoking, alcohol, and caffeine can potentially interfere with growth during your teenage years, so it’s best to avoid these.
Remember, everyone's body grows at its own pace, and many people continue to grow into their early 20s. Focus on staying healthy and confident in who you are.
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This answer is prepared for by the experts at
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Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004
Towards healthy teen years and healthy adulthood.
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Every child in this universe has rights and Indian law accords different rights under it's constitution and also in a specific law called "Juvenile and Justice Act" .
In all our operations, we try to introduce innovative methodologies to nurture children without violating any of their rights. For example, children have the right to protection and we have robust child protection policy in place where our staff have to give an undertaking (at the time of recruitment) to state that they wouldn't engage in any kind of activities that would violate the rights to protection.
We also understand that rights come with responsibilities so we help children in a balanced way to understand their rights and responsibilities.
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During puberty, a teen girl undergoes significant physical changes, including the development of secondary sexual characteristics. These features indicate the transition from childhood to adulthood and are primarily driven by hormonal changes, especially estrogen.
Breast Development: One of the first change that happens is the development of breasts. They begin as small buds and gradually enlarge to reach adult size.
Body Hair: Pubic hair starts to grow around the genitals and later appears under the arms. Some girls may also notice fine hair growth on the legs and arms.
Widening Hips: The pelvic bone enlarges and widen. It creates a curvy shape at the hip. This change is the body's preparation for childbirth in the future.
Menstruation: Menstruation, or the monthly menstrual cycle, typically begins during puberty. This marks the onset of fertility and the ability to conceive.
Skin Changes: Skin may become oilier due to increased hormone production, leading to acne (pimples).
Body odor: Sweat production also increases which leads to body odor. Hence attention to body hygiene is important during puberty.
These changes vary from person to person in terms of timing and pace. It's essential to understand that puberty is a natural and normal process, and everyone experiences it differently. It's crucial to embrace these changes as part of growing up and to maintain good self-care practices and seek professional help in case of any concerns.
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Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004
Towards healthy teen years and healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA
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Hope House adheres to and follows high standards of accountability, transparency and governance. Hope House is listed as a "GiveAssured" NGO of GiveIndia - a premiere and an oldest fundraising platform of India, that requires that we comply with the high standards for accountability, transparency and governance. GiveIndia requires that we renew each year.
1. Board of trustees meet on a frequent basis to review the operations to provide guidance.
2. We have all our accounts managed on Tally software and audited by a Chartered Accountant (CA).
3. We release Annual Report of our activities
4. All the employee salaries are paid through bank transfers
5. All our employees are provided with EPF contribution and ESI coverage for healthcare.
6. As much as possible, we make all our payments to service providers through digital payments (cheque and online transfers)
7. We are required to renew our GiveIndia membership every year which requires
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No, masturbation does not cause weakness of the body or fatigue. This is a common myth without a scientific basis. For some, it is a way to explore one's body and sexual desires. However, it has to be done in a very personal space and should never be in public or in front of others. However, if someone is masturbating many times that it starts affecting their daily routine, or it's replacing their normal schedule, or has been masturbating in public then it is essential to seek professional help.
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This document is prepared for you by the experts at
The Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004
Towards healthy teen years and healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA
https://give.do/fundraisers/project-yuva(https://give.do/fundraisers/project-yuva)
Majority of our donations are very small (Rs. 50) and they come from Indians. We have India's incom tax exempt status (80G) to give to the Indian donors
Small percentage of our funds do come from the donors abroad:
1. We have tax exempt status in the US through third party agreements. For example, we have an understanding with GiveIndia (http://www.giveindia.org)which has their own 501c3 status in the US to raise funds on our behalf. Also, we have a intermediary agreement with a non-profit of the US called "Hope House International" to raise funds in the US on our behalf.
2. We have an understanding with GiveIndia (http://www.giveindia.org)which has a UK tax exempt status (GiftAid) to raise funds in UK on our behalf.
3. We have an understanding with DIZ, Frankfurt (http://www.diz-ev.de/)which has Germany's tax exempt status to raise funds in Germany on our behalf.
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Facial hair growth in teenage boys is a natural part of puberty, during which the body undergoes various changes, including growth spurts, voice changes, and the growth of hair in the armpits and genital area. Since you're 17, your body is going through these changes too. Everyone goes through puberty differently. Some boys start growing facial hair early, while others may take longer. Your genes, which you get from your parents, play a big role in how thick your facial hair will be. If your dad has a thick beard, chances are you will too eventually. Just be patient, because it can take some time for your beard to grow fully.
While there's no guaranteed way to speed up beard growth, there are a few things you can do to support its growth and overall health:
Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support hair growth.
Ensure your diet includes an adequate amount of protein, as fast-growing cells, including hair cells, require protein.
Take care of your beard by keeping it clean, trimmed, and moisturized, which can help it look its best as it grows.
If you're concerned about your beard growth, consider consulting a dermatologist. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual situation.
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Want a printable PDF document with an answer? Click here now(https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zpemJSle7yLUM-Rdi4mGupLZLQarVeTM/view?usp=sharing)
This answer is prepared for you by the team at
Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004.
Towards healthy teen years and a healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA at the link given below so that we can continue this service for all teenagers.
https://give.do/fundraisers/project-yuva(https://give.do/fundraisers/project-yuva)
Talking with teens about sex-related topics, such as healthy relationships, prevention of HIV, other sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy might be a little uncomfortable to start with but remember that doing so is a positive parenting practice. Parents have the greatest influence over a teen’s decisions about sex—more than friends, siblings, or the media. Teens also say that they find it easier if they are able to speak openly and honestly with their parents.
Some tips that will help you better discuss about sex related topics to your teen:
1. Be relaxed and open
2. Be prepared to give fair and honest answers
3. Ask your teenaged child where they get their information from, since some of them might have accurate information.
4. School will not be able to provide the information that they need to know. Use opportunities such as while travelling or after a movie to reinforce positive behavior and the consequences of risky behavior.
5. Have a series of discussions on sexual health with them if they are open to it.
6. If you are unable to answer a particular question, you can always tell them that you will check with an expert and get back for the discussion.
7. When they share sensitive information about themselves do not react angrily but seek professional help. Stay positive yourself and in the way you talk to your teen.
Things to discuss with your teen:
1. Talk about healthy, respectful relationships
2. Communicate your own expectations for your teen about relationships and sex.
3. Provide factual information about ways to prevent HIV, STDs, and pregnancy (e.g., abstinence, condoms and contraception, and HIV/STD testing)
4. Focus on the benefits of protecting oneself from HIV, STDs, and pregnancy
5. Advocate for them by finding out about and providing information about sexual health service provider in your area.
What you say, how you say it, how often you say and how much your teen feels cared for, and understood by their parents, can have an impact on their sexual behavior. It is best to provide age-appropriate sexual health education. It can be started as early as 4-5 years; if you had not started, it’s never too late to start in their teen years.
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Want a printable PDF document with an answer? C(https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wo5vU1gv46t1uNPOoRozED1Dc4I0FY6l/view?usp=sharing)lick here now(https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wo5vU1gv46t1uNPOoRozED1Dc4I0FY6l/view?usp=sharing)
This answer is prepared for you by the team at
Adolescent Medicine Team,
Department of Child health,
CMC Vellore-632004.
Towards healthy teen years and a healthy adulthood.
If this answer helped you, consider supporting Project YUVA at the link given below so that we can continue this service for all teenagers.
https://give.do/fundraisers/project-yuva(https://give.do/fundraisers/project-yuva)
Yes. Anyone from any part of the world can celebrate their/ their loved one's special occasions with the children at the Hope House.
We have designed a calendar for you to book a date which you can access at this link(https://www.indiahopehouse.org/spl-occasions)
Prices also stated on the same page (bottom of the page).
We prefer that you join for the special occasion in person but if for any reason that you cannot attend, we'll send the photos and a video to let you know how it was observed.
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Yes. You can do that from any part of the world by accessing this page (https://www.indiahopehouse.org/needslist)to see our grocery needs of a month. You can order as much as your budget allows and the merchant delivers it to our door. For the home delivery merchants list, kindly do send us an email at info@indiahopehouse.org (mailto:info@indiahopehouse.org)or a whatsapp message at 9629471920.
As soon as we receive the supplies that you order, we'll send photos and videos to confirm of the receipt of the supplies.
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First and foremost, we can only admit 12 groups of children (called as "children in need of care and protection") that are stated in the sub-section (14) of section (2) of JJ Act, 2015.
Even to admit those 12 groups of children, there is a well laid process that we follow:
1. Once we receive a referral from anyone asking us for admission for a particular child in need of care protection, our Social Worker visits the child's home to prepare a Social Investigation Report (SIR) . Social Worker prepares the report along with his/ her own recommendations.
2. If in the above step, the Social Worker recommends to admit the child to the Hope House, the report will be forwarded to the trustees for their consent.
3. Once the trustees consent for the admission, child will be produced before the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) for orders. If the CWC is satisfied and gives the orders, child's family/ guardian will be asked to bring the child along with the belongings for counselling and admission of the child to the children's home.
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No, it is not. Our JJ Act registration approved strength is 21 girls and 2 boys. JJ Act does allow boys up to the age of 10 years to stay in the same home with a provision for designated accommodation (with separate bathroom and a toilet) and restrictions on visiting into the girls rooms.
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Yes, it is recognized by the state of Tamilnadu (Department of Social Defense) after going through an arduous due diligence process.
It may be noted here that the Hope House adoption agency is recognized as the Specialized Adoption Agency exclusively to cater to the children with special needs.
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Yes, they are. Under mission Vatsalya, specialized adoption agencies are funded but not all the costs are covered.
For example, since we are an adoption agency catering exclusively for the children with special needs, we go to the hospital almost on a daily basis but the transportation costs are not covered under the state funding.
Having said that, state funding to the adoption agencies cover major part of the expenses such as employee monthly salaries, rent, and utilities etc.
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Right now, every adoption has to occur through a registration process that ought to take place on the government web site at www.cara.nic.in.(www.cara.nic.in) Any other way would be considered as illegal.
The process that is followed by the Government is 'Double Blind' where neighter the Specialized Adoption Agencies (SAA) know who would be the prospective adoptive parents (PAPs) for the children that they care for nor the PAPs know where their desired child would be coming from.
Both entities (PAPs and SAA) have to upload the information to a common platform (called CARINGS) on the above given web site and the Government will match the child to the parents and share the required information with the respective parties.
Simple answer to your question is NO, you cannot directoly adopt a child from an adoption agency.
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When adoption is completed, the district magistrate will issue a document (a legal document) that declares the adoptive parent(s) as the parent(s) with rights, privileges and responsibilities that are attached to biological child. In essence, when the adoption is completed legally, you're the parent to the child.
Whereas in foster care, that permanancy of the relationship doesn't exist. You'll be the caretaker of the child in your own dwelling while the Government will remain the sole custodian of the child.
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YUVA is an acronym that stands for Young people Understanding & Verbalizing Adolescence. It is a collaborative project between the Hope House and Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore for promoting adolescent health in Vellore and Ranipet districts in the state of Tamailnadu.
This project has two components namely
1. School Health Education
2. Community Empowerment.
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Currently, we plan to address the issue of adolescent health in Vellore and Ranipet districts (in schools and in the communities) but we are developing digital tools (mobile app, information call center, youtube channel and the web site) which could reach larger population anywhere in the world with the information pertaining to adolescent health.
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Christian Medical College (CMC): It is a tertiary level hospital with the adolescent health sub-speciality in child health department. They will be developing content that will have to be delivered to the adolescents in the schools and in the communities. They will also oversee the accuracy of information if developed by others.
The Hope House (THH): Will work on community empowerment by supporting and complimenting the state projects to strengthen the communities for child protection and to make the communities adolescent friendly.
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It is a program of the Hope House where we extend assistance for four vulnerable groups (HIV, Disability, Child Labor and Tuberculosis) of children and their families to purchase groceries so that children need not be institutinalized. It is similar 'sponsorship' in JJ Act. Currently we support 25 families.
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Hope House is a registered charitable organization working for the children in need of care and protection in three districts (Vellore, Ranipet and Thirupathur) in the state of Tamilnadu. We have projects under two broad categories namelyl 'intstitutional care' and 'non-institutional care'. You're advised to visit the 'Projects' link (or any other link for any other information pertaining to our organization) on this site to get to know more about our work.
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We offer in-person six weeks of full time internship (8 hours/ day for six days in a week) in the area of 'Child Protection' which includes theory and hands on practicum (in six different modules) to prepare any graduate (with passion for social work) for an employment opportunity in the area of child protection in any compatable organization (priviate/ public).
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To prepare a graduate for a career in the field of 'Child Protection' in public/ private sector.
Child Protection is a an exciting area with wide variety of employment opportunities. It could range from working in an NGO or NGO with childline, working at statutory bodies such as CWC, JJB, SCPCR, NCPCR, or public sector jobs such as CARA, SARA, SJPU, contract works such as DCPU, working for the international organizations such as UNICEF.
Many other areas of work (such as education and healthcare etc) also could be potential destinations for such desiring interns.
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Any graduate (with passion for social work in general and child protection in specific) can join for this internship.
Foreign graduates may also apply but it is contingent upon the issuance of appropriate visa by the Government of India. We'll assist you with our end of the paper work in obtaining your visa. We do not accept foreign graduates with visitors visa to do this internship.
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Currently our internship is structured for six weeks to work on six different modules namely:
Modules:
1. Fundraising module: Concepts related to fundraising.
2. Research module: Concepts related to research.
3. Projects module: Exposure to each of the projects of the Hope House.
4. Legislative module: Learning about JJ Act, POCSO Act, RTI Act
5. Writing module: Writing posts for the social media and case studies etc.
6. Networking module: Networking with statutory bodies at the district level.
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High level of motivation and discipline. Remember, you're spending money (food and accomodation for example) for this internship, we expect that you would have those qualities to apply anyway. Apart from this, you would need flulency in spoken and written English and be able to use the computer (personal computer is a must).
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Hope House has a web site at http://www.indiahopehouse.org (http://www.indiahopehouse.org)and it is managed by novices using wix platform. If you're an individual with web site building expertise (design and content), you could volunteer to support us in making our web site dynamic and vibrant. If you like to volunteer, kindly do send an email now to info@indiahopehouse.org(mailto:info@indiahopehouse.org)
All our volunteers receive a certificate of completion if they invest 5 hours or more in volunteering.
Hope House has Google ad grants account where Google grants $329 of virtual money to the Hope House spend on Google's platforms to attract the potential donors/ stakeholders to their respective landing pages. Currently it is managed by the novices but if you have the expertise to assist with building campaigns using Google ad grants, kindly write an email to us now at info@indiahopehouse.org(mailto:info@indiahopehouse.org)
All the volunteers who invests more than 5 hours of time volunteering receives a certificate of completion.
Hope House maintains a blog at http://www.indiahopehouse.org/blog (http://www.indiahopehouse.org/blog)and we would like to write more frequently than what we've been doing now. Currently it is managed by the novices but if you have the expertise to write enriching and inclusive posts and would like to volunteer, please do write to us now at
info@indiahopehouse.org(mailto:info@indiahopehouse.org)
All the volunteers who invests more than 5 hours of their time volunteering, receives a certificate of completion.
Hope House has very actve social media handles at facebook, twitter, youtube and linkedin. Currently they are managed by novices but if you have the expertise to design and develop posters for us to use in the social media posts, please write to us now atWe'll give you all the background information that you need to have to develop the posters.
All the volunteers who invests more than 5 hours of their time volunteering, receives a certificate of completion.
You identify a financially deserving child who needs financial assistance to pursue higher education and you can raise funds using the Hope House's fundraising platform that is extended to it by GiveIndia.(http://www.giveindia.org)
Before you choose to create a campaign for any individual, kindly do discuss with the Hope House representative to ensure that this child indeed meets the criterion to raise the funds.
Once that is determined, Hope House will guide you as to how to create a fundraising campaign for the deserving child of of your choice.
Funds raised will be kept with the Hope House and the Hope House will disburse the funds to the college/ institute and any merchant directly.
In this day and age, young people have enormous number of chioces in terms of building thier career. Often you find the youth being confused about not knowing what is the right choice for their future.
We need passionate individuals giving pragmatic career counselling to advice them to choose the right kind of career choices based on their aptitute and appetite. Write to us at info@indiahopehouse.org (mailto:info@indiahopehouse.org)about being a career cousellor to the most vulnerable children.
Its a common belief that an adolescent that has a passionate and a sensible mentor to guide, more likely that they'll stay the course. We are looking individuals that are interested to engage our children over a phone conversation to understand their needs to guide them to make right choices for their life.
Write to us to know more about this volunteering opportunity at info@indiahopehouse.org(mailto:info@indiahopehouse.org)
All our children are in need of care and protection. We strongly believe that any child that is denied of love and affection would grow up to be someone who cannot share the same kind of love and affection with others when they grow up. How sad proposition that could be!!
We want to ensure that our children experience love and affection in various ways from diverse group of people. One of that is to physical receive letters. You like writing letter to be like a 'PenPal'? You could write them in Tamil or in English.
If you like to do that, send us a mail today at info@indiahopehouse.org(mailto:info@indiahopehouse.org)
We learned that the social media has a strong influence on the society today and we want to capitalize on that. We want to capitalize to promote the value of child rights and child protection. We make short audio jingles and youtube videos (possibly less than two minutes long) and share them freely. We need people that can write scripts or share ideas over the phone to make jingles/ videos. Do you have those skills? Write to us at info@indiahopehouse.org (mailto:info@indiaopehouse.org)or send a whatsapp message to 9629471920 and we'll get in touch with you.
All our children come from the marginalized communities and the depth of their English is very shallow. We believe that having a reasonable grasp in English is essential and could help them to excel in the years to come. These children literally needs English coaching from the scratch (Phonics) and if you have that expertise to share to help, get in touch with us at info@indiahopehouse.org (mailto:info@indiahopehouse.org)or a whatsapp message to 9629471920 and we'll get in touch with us.
Hope House doesn't have adequate resources to spend to obtain a secure platform for fundraising. By partnering with GiveIndia, they are able to provide a secure platform to our donors for a small fee. Also, GiveIndia offers lot of matching prizes to small NGO's like the Hope House which we try to win as many as we possibly can win.
Only you know your network better so it would hard for us to suggest but as a ball park figure you can try to raise Rs. 5000 and edit it as and when you figure that you can raise or less depending on the campaigning date. Remember this: Although you have a campaign of your own, you will still be showing the Hope House page but you will be showing your name as though you created it.
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