Start well, live well, put #Ufirst
Be selfish. Put yourself first. That is the message from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness to every young person this Youth Day. This is one thing you are allowed to be selfish about: your health. Putting #UFirst by choosing good food, daily movement, trusted advice, fresh air and practical help gives you the best chance to grow into a strong and confident adult. Each decision you make today shapes the body and mind you will rely on tomorrow.
Exam season can feel like a heavy weight. Revision timetables, late nights and the pressure to succeed can raise stress levels and leave little room for healthy choices. Your wellbeing is the fuel that keeps you alert and calm. A balanced plate steadies your energy. A quick walk, stretch or dance break releases tension and clears the mind. When worry builds, remember that help is close.
Youth Zones are available across the province. These welcoming centres are designed around the needs of young people. Friendly teams listen without judgement and offer nutrition guidance, routine health checks, mental wellness support and sexual and reproductive care. If exams are causing anxiety, a quiet conversation at a Youth Zone can provide coping tools, study balance tips and referrals when more help is needed.
Reliable information matters. Social media often promotes quick fixes. Some trends are harmless fun, but others can put health at risk. Vaping may look modern, yet many products carry high doses of nicotine and chemicals that injure growing lungs. If you already vape and want to stop, Youth Zone staff can guide you step by step. Choosing fresh air over vapour is a powerful gift to your future self.
Small daily actions add up. A nourishing lunch fuels clearer thinking for the next test. Ten minutes of movement after school strengthens your heart for the long term. A visit to a Youth Zone gives you the facts you need to make confident choices. Start well to live well. Make your move and put #UFirst today.
For more information about Youth Zones and other youth health services, visit your nearest clinic or follow the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness on social media (Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok).