Young Finns and Their Ouch Moments: A Look at Injuries and Well-being

In Finland, a lot of teens get hurt during free time or at home. This is not just a small issue. It affects their health, their ability to do things, and costs a lot of money. Over eight years, from 2013 to 2021, researchers asked 8th and 9th graders about their injuries and what might have caused them. About one in three teens said they had been hurt at least once. Sports caused the most injuries, followed by other leisure activities and accidents at home. Not many teens used safety gear, which could have prevented some of these injuries. Teens who were very anxious, drank a lot of alcohol, or used drugs were more likely to get hurt. Those who were born outside Finland and had no close friends also faced higher risks. Boys were more likely to get injured than girls. These injuries are not just random. They are linked to risky behavior, how teens feel emotionally, their relationships, and even where they live. Experts who work to prevent injuries need to consider all these factors. This study used a big-picture approach to understand teen injuries. It looked at not just the teens themselves, but also their environment and relationships. This helps to show that injuries are not just about accidents. They are also about how teens feel and the choices they make.