Letting youth be free from confusion—we use professionalism and compassion to create the warmest sanctuary for every young person in transformation.

Adolescence is the most "roller-coaster-like" stage of life. Rapid physiological changes, psychological self-exploration, and the tug-of-war of peer relationships interweave into a journey that is both beautiful and challenging. During this transition from childhood to adulthood, teenagers often face many "unspoken" troubles. Far Eastern Memorial Hospital (FEMH) understands the hardships of this process and has been committed to building a comprehensive support network for years. We are honored to announce that, through the efforts of our entire staff, FEMH has been awarded the "2025 Outstanding Adolescent Health Promotion Friendly Institution" by the Health Promotion Administration, Ministry of Health and Welfare. This honor is not only an affirmation of our past efforts but also a driving force for us to continue guarding the physical and mental health of the next generation.

I. Understanding the Needs of "Storm and Stress": Why Do We Need "Adolescent-Friendly Healthcare"?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines adolescence as the period between ages 10 and 19. In Taiwan's medical practice, this typically covers junior high, senior high, and early university stages. In fact, adolescents find themselves in a unique medical gap. Their bodies have gradually approached adulthood, but their psychological development is not yet fully mature. The health issues they face are often not simple "illnesses" but a complex interplay of Biological, Psychological, and Social (Bio-Psycho-Social) factors.

For instance, a junior high student seeking repeated consultations for unexplained abdominal pain may have underlying anxiety caused by school bullying. A girl overly concerned about her weight may be on the verge of an eating disorder. A boy immersed in the digital world might be using the virtual space to escape the frustrations of family communication.

Our emphasis on "friendliness" encompasses four core pillars:

●     Privacy: Providing independent and secure consultation spaces that respect an adolescent's right to privacy.

●     Accessibility: Streamlining medical processes so teenagers can seek help in a stress-free environment.

●     Empathy: Medical staff are trained in professional communication—listening without judgment or preachy lectures.

●     Comprehensive Integration: Connecting multi-disciplinary resources, including Psychosomatic Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Family Medicine, Social Work, and Clinical Psychology.

II. The Practice of Holistic Care: A Gentle Transition from Body to Mind

The key to winning this excellence award lies in FEMH's implementation of an "Adolescent-Centered" integrated care model. We don't just treat diseases; we care for a growing "person."

●     Dedicated Services and Clinics: The Department of Family Medicine at FEMH provides adolescent-friendly services and offers specialized consultations for smoking cessation and weight management based on individual needs.

●     Mental Health Safety Net: In response to depression, anxiety, and internet addiction, our psychiatric team works closely with clinical psychologists. Through individual and group therapies, we guide children to become aware of their emotions and build healthy stress-coping skills.

●     Prioritizing Privacy and Health Education: We provide strictly confidential consultation channels. For reproductive health and contraception, we offer professional guidance to debunk internet myths and protect teenagers from physical or mental harm caused by misinformation.

III. Stepping Beyond the Hospital: The Golden Triangle of Family and School

Another crucial factor in achieving this recognition is FEMH's active implementation of "prevention is better than cure." We know that to change health concepts for teenagers, we must enter their living circles.

The FEMH medical team regularly visits junior and senior high schools in the Banqiao, Tucheng, and Shulin districts. We conduct not only large lectures but also small-group interactive teaching. Topics include:

●     Debunking Sexual Health Myths: Discussing contraception, STD prevention, and emotional boundaries with accurate knowledge.

●     Saying No to Tobacco, Betel Nut, and Alcohol: Interactive activities that help students understand the irreversible damage addictive substances cause to the developing brain.

●     Building Psychological Resilience: Teaching students how to detect stress signals and find proper channels for decompression.

Through these activities, we plant seeds of health in students' hearts and let them know: "If you encounter difficulties, FEMH is a trustworthy place for help." At the same time, we regularly hold parenting workshops to help parents understand the physiological characteristics of the adolescent brain and learn "Nonviolent Communication," turning family conflicts into opportunities for mutual growth.

IV. Beyond the Honor: Continuous Improvement for a Brave Future

Winning the 2025 Excellence Award is a reaffirmation of FEMH's mission. Facing the challenges of the digital age and a complex social environment, we will continue to refine our services to create a warmer and more inclusive medical environment.

To our young friends: You are not alone on the road to growth. If you are confused by changes in your body or have pain in your heart that is hard to express, the doors of FEMH are always open for you. There is no judgment here—only warm listening and professional help.

To our respected parents: When a child shows emotional changes or unexplained physical discomfort, it may be a cry for help. Please let FEMH be your professional ally in the journey of parenting.

【We Are Always Here】 Our Adolescent Health Center provides comprehensive physical and mental medical consultations and assistance, including weight management, reproductive health, teenage pregnancy care, substance addiction prevention, and emotional distress adjustment. Whether through self-referral or school referrals, our Family Medicine physicians integrate resources and refer to specialists or psychologists as needed. We hope to accompany teenagers in their healthy growth and help them develop their infinite potential.

Growing bravely with our children—let's work together.