Health Education in Schools

Health Education in Schools
By Paul Favors, eHow Contributor
I want to do this! What's This?
Health education is the formal inclusion of the principles of wellness in the curriculum of a particular educational institution. Among the concepts taught to students are information on illness and their prevention, substance abuse and sexual relations. The ultimate purpose of health education is to allow students to have an understanding of their bodies and develop beliefs related to health.
Facts
Health education is formally included in the curriculum of some schools. A comprehensive program includes teachings that range from emotional to physical health. Self-esteem and the functions of the human body are also discussed. While the program covers specific aspects such as different kinds of illnesses and their treatments, it also attempts to form values related to health such as improving body image. Often, health issues relevant to the particular grade level are discussed. For example, high school students are taught about the substance abuse and pregnancy. Its goal is not just to disseminate information but also to allow students to develop attitudes and beliefs on health.
Importance
Health education is a significant addition to the curricula of schools because health is a source of major concern. The existence of health problems can disrupt the opportunities for learning in the sense that it can disrupt classroom attendance and overall state of mind. Thus, increasing awareness among the student body can reduce the risk of educational disruptions. Furthermore, the development of attitudes at a young age can increase the probability that behaviors will be altered and a more balanced lifestyle is developed.
Behavior
The advantage of incorporating these concepts in the lessons taught in school is that the students are able to apply what they learned in other aspects. Health education advocates that the same cause can lead to a wide range of health and