316 Chapter 12 Health and Fitness Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Not all risks are bad. For example, you might risk being turned down when inviting someone new to a school dance. Many risks, however, are quite serious due to their consequences. They can result in physical or mental harm to a person, cause injury or death, and even affect the lives of innocent people. These consequences are severe. Carefully analyze the risks you take and consider the possible outcomes. Some risks, such as having sex, using illegal drugs, drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, and driving while intoxicated, can have lifetime consequences. Some risks can endanger the health and well- being of others. No one has the right to take risks that might cause harm to others. For example, riding in a car is a routine risk, but doing so without fastening your seat belt raises the risk factor for physical injury. Riding with someone who has been drinking raises your risk factor and the driver’s risk factor for serious injury or death. Going to a party and using drugs increases your risk factor for physical and social-emotional consequences. The use of illegal drugs can lead to serious health consequences and even death. There is also the risk of possible arrest for possession of drugs. When people are under the infl uence of drugs or alcohol, they are also less able to make good decisions involving their behavior. None of these consequences can lead to positive outcomes concerning the quality of your life. Some teens think they are immune to danger, but no one really is. Consider any risk seriously. Then, if you choose to proceed with an activity, plan ahead to reduce the gravest consequences. For instance, if you want to raft a dangerous river, train for it and go with a team of rafters who are also well trained. Before you take off, secure your helmet and life vest, know how to avoid falling off, and know how to get back on if you do. Build Supportive Relationships You will come in contact with many people throughout your life. Some of these people will be very close to you. They are the people who will love you, encourage you, support you, and make you feel worthwhile. These are likely to be your parents, your close friends, a dating partner, and may eventually include a marriage partner. Even in the workplace, you may fi nd a mentor who will help you along in your career. The relationships you share with these people have a great effect on the quality of your life. You are healthier, both physically and mentally, when you have these supportive relationships in your life. Your happiness and success in life are closely related to your ability to form meaningful relationships with others. The caring people in your life will support you in times of stress, 12-6. They will help you solve problems and fi nd direction. Supportive relationships go both ways. That means both people in the relationship meet needs and contribute to the personal development of the other. Compile a list of activities that help promote wellness and can be done by an entire family. Examples include walking, riding bicycles, swimming, and preparing healthy recipes. Try one of the activities with your family and share the experiences in small groups or with the entire class. Wellness Awareness