Health Behaviors and Lifestyle Choices Among Adolescents and Youth: A Review of Trends and Interventions

Abstract

Adolescence and youth represent pivotal periods for establishing health behaviors that shape long-term physical, mental, and social well-being. Lifestyle factors—including dietary habits, physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep patterns, substance use, and mental health practices—serve as critical determinants of health outcomes during this developmental stage. Globally, evidence indicates that unhealthy behaviors are prevalent among adolescents, contributing to rising rates of overweight and obesity, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental health disorders, and risk-taking behaviors. These trends are influenced by individual, social, environmental, and policy-level determinants, including family practices, peer influences, school environments, urbanization, marketing of unhealthy products, and access to recreational spaces.

This review synthesizes current evidence on adolescent health behaviors, identifies the key determinants shaping lifestyle choices, and evaluates interventions designed to promote healthy habits. It emphasizes the effectiveness of multi-component strategies that combine school-based programs, community engagement, family involvement, and digital or media-based interventions in fostering positive behavior change. The review also examines policy and programmatic approaches at local, national, and global levels, highlighting successes, gaps, and opportunities for strengthening adolescent health promotion.