Anxiety and Teens

Anxiety can look differently in adolescents than in children or adults.  Many times, adolescents have different things that trigger their anxiety.  Let’s first look at what anxiety is.  According to the American Psychological Association anxiety is defined as, “an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes like increased blood pressure.  Many times, it comes in the form of intrusive thoughts, worries, and concerns.  Sometimes anxiety can be beneficial, it can help us become aware of certain dangers or help us prepare and pay attention in different situations. 

 With adolescents, anxiety can cause them to begin wanting to avoid people or situations that trigger or worsen their anxiety.  Oftentimes, this is school, social activities, and even family. They tend to have significant anxiety surrounding feeling embarrassed, humiliated, rejected, or looked down on.   Anxiety in adolescents is common with 1 in 3 experiencing a form of anxiety disorder.  Teens experiencing anxiety can also experience depression, self-harm, and substance use.  Some of the signs that your teen may be experiencing anxiety are changes in behavior, irritability, avoiding activities, school avoidance, grades dropping, trouble sleeping or concentrating, chronic stomach pain, headaches, and fatigue. 

 Some of the things that parents can do are talk to their teens about their anxiety.  Have an open dialogue with them about what it feels like to them.  If you asked 50 teens what anxiety feels like to them, you will get 50 different answers.  So, find out what the experience is like for your teen.  Validate and empathize with them, but do not dismiss their worries or anxieties.  Seek outside help if needed from your teen’s pediatrician or a counselor.  Ask them what they prefer!  Be there to support them as they work through this, but don’t do it alone!