By Melissa Patrick
Kentucky Health News
The focus of April’s “Our Healthy Kentucky Home” initiative is teen and young adult health.
This will be the focus of the initiative, which is in its second year, over the next few months, Health Secretary Dr. Steven Stack said at an April 2 news conference.
Stack said the initiative works to promote simple and attainable goals to help Kentuckians achieve better health, such as eating at least two servings of fruits and vegetables every day, exercising at least 30 minutes three times per week and by engaging with others to stay socially connected. He added that these foundational principles also work for teens as young adults.
“These years are critical for shaping lifelong habits, and by adopting these everyday practices early, folks can create a strong and lasting foundation for their physical, mental and emotional well-being,” he said.
Stack said fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins provide energy, focus and growth during these important developmental years.
“Even small adjustments, like adding a fruit or vegetable to each of your meals, drinking water rather than sugary drinks and choosing snacks like nuts, yogurt, and whole grains can have a helpful benefit and impact over time,” he said.
Stack also encouraged teens and young adults to engage in at least 30 minutes of activity three times a week, noting that this can “significantly improve both your physical and mental health.”
“The good news is that staying active doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, whether it’s playing sports, dancing, walking with friends or taking short movement breaks between classes or screen time, activity can be naturally woven into daily routines,” he said.
Stack pointed to school sports, the Kentucky YMCA and Kentucky 4-H as places that provide safe spaces for young people to stay active, while also building confidence and connections.
He also stressed the importance of healthy social connections.
“In today’s fast-paced and often digital world, maintaining meaningful connections is more important than ever,” Stack said. “Strong social connections help protect mental health, foster resilience and create a sense of well-being. This can be as simple as joining a club or a team, volunteering or checking in on a friend.”
Stack pointed to a program that works to help young people grow and build relationships called Kentucky Youth Thrive, for young people aged 9 to 26. He said to go to healthykyhome.ky.gov or email [email protected] to find an active program near you, or to learn how to activate this program in your community.
And if you are struggling, Stack reminded folks, “It’s OK to not be OK.” He then pointed to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. The lifeline can be reached by call, text or online chat.
“It is an essential resource to ensure no one has to face challenges alone,” he said.
“These small, everyday choices add up. When teens and young adults eat better, move more and stay connected, they build resilience that supports them, physically, mentally and emotionally,” Stack said. “These habits don’t require perfection; they simply require intentional effort and consistency over time.”
The Our Healthy Kentucky Home website includes information about teen and young adult health, along with links to each month’s focus topic.