The Seeds of Change: How Youth Foster Healthy Behavior in a Developing Society
Youth, the vibrant pulse of a society, holds immense power to shape its future. They are brimming with energy, idealism, and a willingness to learn and adapt. In a developing society, where progress hinges on a healthy and productive population, the role of youth in promoting healthy behavior becomes even more critical.
One of the most significant contributions of young people is their ability to be agents of information dissemination. Equipped with the latest knowledge through education and access to technology, they can become effective educators for their peers and even older generations.
Today’s youth are the most exposed generation to information technology, mainly social media. Whereas parents used to teach their children how to turn on a computer and play with it, it is now young people who teach their parents how to use the latest technology breakthrough, like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
YOUTH PEOPLE NOWADAYS CONCERN MORE ABOUT WELLNESS
Unfortunately, there are many negative narratives about young people that are presented as content for social media, whether it’s for fun or serious purposes. For example, Gen Z is the most emotionally unstable generation, or rather a generation that is difficult to commit.
Even though there are many positive things that Gen Z does. One of them is data from McKinsey & Company. A recent study by McKinsey & Company (2024) reveals a shift in wellness spending habits. Youth nowadays are leading the charge, investing more in their overall well-being, compared to older generations.
This data, gathered from over 5,000 consumers across China, the US, and the UK, highlights a focus on preventive health and a holistic approach to wellness among younger generations. The study also unveils intriguing trends.
In the US, a significant 56% of Gen Z participants consider fitness a top priority, exceeding the national average of 40%. Interestingly, the pursuit of healthy aging is not limited to older adults.
Younger consumers are increasingly seeking preventative measures to address health concerns, especially in the context of aging.
NOT JUST SHARING ON SOCIAL MEDIA, HEALTHY BEHAVIOR COULD PROMOTE NEW ECONOMY FOR YOUTH
Young people today live with social media, it’s easy for them to share things on social media. Including spearheading awareness campaigns on health issues like mental health, the importance of a balanced diet and exercise.
Social media platforms, used massively by youth, can be transformed into tools for positive change, spreading infographics, organizing online discussions, and encouraging healthy lifestyle challenges.
One of the viral sports among Indonesian youth are tennis and pound fit. Young people proudly and happily share their moments when playing tennis on social media. They even created new communities to play together.
In the past, to become a gymnastics instructor, you had to go through years of practice hours to finally get the stage, now after joining a few pound fit classes you can already become a pound fit instructor. So many young people of the gen Z and millennial generation become pound fit instructors in a short time.
YOUTH ARE THE FUTURE ARCHITECTS OF A HEALTHY SOCIETY
Furthermore, young people are natural risk-takers, unafraid to challenge the status quo. This makes them perfect advocates for breaking down social barriers surrounding healthy habits. Imagine a group of youth organizing a community clean-up, tackling environmental issues, head-on while promoting physical activity.
Think of a theater group of teenagers putting on a play, depicting the dangers of substance abuse, sparking dialogue and critical thinking within their community. These initiatives, driven by youth, not only to foster healthy behavior but also to empower others to do the same.
Leading by example is another powerful tool in the hands of young people. By actively participating in sports and wellness activities, they can inspire their peers to prioritize physical well-being. Choosing healthy food options and advocating for healthier school lunches encourage others to follow.
Moreover, youth can be vocal about mental health; destigmatizing the issue by openly discussing their own struggles and seeking help when needed. These actions, big or small, pave the way for a society that prioritizes well-being.
Of course, fostering healthy behavior in youth requires support from institutions and the broader community. Providing access to quality education, healthcare facilities, and recreational spaces is crucial. Creating platforms for youth leadership and participation in decision-making processes, empowers them to be active agents of change.
In conclusion, youth are not just the inheritors of the future, but active architects to a healthy society. Their enthusiasm, knowledge, and willingness to challenge the norm empower them to promote healthy behavior in developing societies.
By fostering their leadership, providing them with the right tools, and encouraging them to lead by example, we can cultivate a generation of healthy, responsible citizens who will embark towards a brighter future.