Mental Health

Teenage mental health has been shown to be affected by living in a cold home which is typical of those in fuel poverty. Considering this is a crucial time in a teenager’s life in terms of education and social development the impact will be huge if they fail to achieve their goals such as university or a trade. These issues not only affect the individual, but their families and the community as a whole. Family members have to assist with the teenagers mental health issues, further depriving the family of improving their living standards.

Social Stigma

Fuel poverty may cause unease in teenagers. They may not feel comfortable inviting friends around to their house. This may affect friendships, peer groups or even relationships. In the long term this can have an impact on the teenager’s confidence and personality further lowering their socioeconomic opportunities.

Respiratory Disease

Like children, teenagers are also at higher risk of developing respiratory disease such as asthma. These conditions can negatively impact on their ability to play and participate in sports and many other activities. It can increase their hospital admission rates and visits to the doctor. Ultimately these poor health days will reduce their attendance rates at school and training and affect their grades and performance.

References:

http://www.apho.org.uk/resource/item.aspx?RID=110341

http://www.bmj.com/content/342/bmj.d2807