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The Health of Young People (20 marks) (a) (i) Outline the current patterns of mortality for young people - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 28 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 28
The Health of Young People (20 marks) (a) (i) Outline the current patterns of mortality for young people. (ii) Compare the health status of young people with the h... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The Health of Young People (20 marks) (a) (i) Outline the current patterns of mortality for young people - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 28 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline the current patterns of mortality for young people.
Answer
Young men aged 15–24 years have a significantly higher mortality rate compared to their female counterparts. The leading cause of mortality within this age group is intentional self-harm, or suicide, which has been increasingly prevalent over the past decade. In addition, motor vehicle accidents contribute to the high mortality rate, especially among young males, who are more prone to engage in risky behaviors.
Another mortality factor for young people includes accidental deaths, often due to substance abuse or drug overdoses. Overall, the patterns reflect a concerning trend that indicates a need for targeted health interventions.
Step 2
Compare the health status of young people with the health status of individuals in a different age group.
Answer
The health status of young people aged 15–24 differs significantly from that of older Australians, particularly those aged 65–74. Young people often face mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety disorders, which can lead to increased rates of self-harm. Conversely, the older population experiences chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, which are typically associated with aging.
As an example, suicide rates are notably higher among younger individuals compared to older adults, while older age groups have higher incidents of diseases like cardiovascular conditions and various forms of cancer. These differences highlight the distinct health challenges faced by different age demographics.
Step 3
Analyse how young people can attain better health by developing connectedness, resilience and coping skills, and health literacy skills.
Answer
Young people can significantly improve their health outcomes by fostering connectedness with peers and family. Building strong relationships provides a support system that can help mitigate feelings of isolation and anxiety. Furthermore, resilience and coping skills enable young individuals to better handle stress and adversity, leading to improved mental health.
Health literacy skills are equally vital, as they equip young people with the knowledge needed to navigate the healthcare system effectively. Understanding health information empowers them to make informed decisions regarding their well-being, including recognizing symptoms and seeking appropriate care. Together, these skills contribute to healthier lifestyles and better health outcomes overall.