Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition on the planet. When contemplating this fact, many of us don’t think about teenagers. It might seem like young children are more susceptible to irrational fears. Also, adults caught up in the so-called rat race appear more likely to succumb to stressful influences.
Meanwhile, right in between, teenage anxiety is unique and often under-explored. We all know teens can be moody and unpredictable — but we generally assume they’re living through a mellow, happy time. When they show signs of anxious behavior, it may be brushed off as a “phase.” This disconnect is precisely why teenage anxiety can be so serious.
Some Realities About Teenage Anxiety
About one-third of U.S. teenagers (between 13 and 18) have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. That number is much higher when you factor in suppressed or downplayed symptoms. Still, when drama and angst are expected, parents and teachers miss opportunities to nip big problems in the bud.
Why Would a Teen Be Anxious?
The things that we view as normal for teenagers are what we should be examining, for example, the ever-present effect of peer pressure. Other anxiety triggers might include:
- Hormonal changes
- Juggling the responsibilities of school — academic work, extracurricular activities, fitting in with others, etc.
- Social life — from friendships to romance to online interactions and beyond
- Embracing independence as a young adult
- Having to make plans for your future
Perhaps the biggest anxiety trigger is all the effort put into not looking anxious. Despite rebellious tropes, teenagers are notorious conformists. They crave a sense of belonging even if it means compromise. Addressing all of this begins with knowing what to look for.
What Makes Teenage Anxiety Unique?
Each ensuing generation is increasingly impacted by online life. Their devices and their social media presence weigh heavily on their moods and decisions. While dealing with everything on the list above, today’s teens are being overwhelmed with factors like:
- Information overload (including non-stop notifications)
- The distortions imposed on real life by social media profiles, algorithms, bots, and more
- Easy access to potentially addictive and dangerous platforms like gaming and pornography
- The de-prioritizing of face-to-face interactions and thus, a lack of needed social skills
With all this in mind, let’s consider how to recognize when anxiety is brewing for a teen.
Common Signs of Anxiety in Teenagers
Things can begin with a series of physical symptoms that might be immediately associated with anxiety. For example, teens with anxiety might struggle with fatigue, headaches, nausea, or muscle tension. They also display sudden shifts in their appetite with corresponding weight loss or gain. Physical signs that are more obviously related to emotional distress include sleep issues and rapid heart rate.
The emotional or behavioral red flags might be easier, at first, to identify and connect with anxiety.
Possible Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms of Anxiety in Teens
- School-Related: Lower grades, decreased social interactions, lack of focus, a desire to not go to classes, and getting involved in risky behaviors (substance use, unsafe sex, dangerous driving, etc.)
- Withdrawal: Avoiding situations that require socializing, spending a lot of time alone, losing interest in activities they once enjoyed, and more.
- Low Self-Esteem: Negative self-talk, chronic worrying, and poor body image are a few concerns.
You Can Help Your Anxious Teen
It can go a long way for you to validate their feelings and help them develop healthy coping skills. Encourage them to practice daily self-care and lead by example by making your home a safe space for open, non-judgmental discussions. But most importantly, remember that anxiety is a diagnosable mental health disorder. Get your child the help they need and deserve. Reach out today to learn more about anxiety or teen therapy.
