If you have a teenager in a local high school, you may have heard about INTEGRIS Health's On Your Own program.

On Your Own is an innovative program in which doctors and health care professionals discuss with high school juniors and seniors life and health issues facing today's young people. Experts off er interactive presentations on sexual health issues, nutrition and relationships. Using provided notepads, students anonymously write down questions for the health professionals to answer aloud. There are separate sessions for guys and girls.

Dr. Mary Ann Bauman, who helped pioneer the On Your Own concept, is the featured speaker and moderator for this event. Her presentation about the female body provides honest, straightforward information. She describes and explains pelvic exams in a way that is designed to convince young women of the importance of these oft en misunderstood exams.

For the young men's program, Dr. Bauman discusses what students need to know for his health and hers. For both boys and girls, she stresses the importance of abstinence, but recognizes that students often make other choices. With that in mind, Dr. Bauman shares information about teen pregnancy, as well as sexually transmitted diseases.

In addition, Karen Massey, a registered dietitian, educates students on healthy lifestyle decisions, such as diet and exercise, as well as health dangers, including diet pills and eating disorders.

Another session focuses on managing relationships. Licensed professional counselor Rebecca Williams, M.Ed., LPC, CEAP, gives students the tools necessary to empower themselves, and helps them understand different communication styles and how to interact with others. Williams also offers advice for those who are in difficult relationships, whether it's with a significant other, sibling, schoolmate or parent.

This popular program has now been going for 16 years. As times and attitudes change, the On Your Own program may be retooled to fit the needs of the modern high school student.

To Learn More
To find out more about how On Your Own is changing teens' lives in your community, visit www.integrisonyourown.com.

INTEGRIS Health 3300 N.W. Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK 73112 (405) 949-3011 | HealthLine: (888) 951-2277