Elevated heart rate, perspiration, restlessness, worrisome thoughts – – these are all signs of anxiety, which has a negative impact on a person’s emotional, physical, and mental health.
An estimated 31.1% of American adults have had an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, making anxiety one of the most prevalent mental health conditions in the country.
Indeed, everyone has experienced this kind of mental health condition at some point, and teens and young adults are not exempt from the statistics. Anxiety also affects them, sometimes severely, because of the various circumstances, difficulties and changes they encounter on a daily basis.
According to estimates, 31.9% of American teenagers between the ages of 13 and 18 have experienced some form of anxiety condition, and they are predominantly female.
What makes teenagers anxious? The following are a few triggers:
Hormones. Anxiety and emotional distress are caused by a combination of circumstances, including immaturity, lack of expertise in managing different emotions, and hormonal swings that girls deal with due to menstruation, while boys deal with testosterone surges.
Peer pressure. Pressure derived from school is one factor that contributes to a teen’s anxiousness. Low self-esteem and self-doubt are frequently caused by the need to fit in with the crowd. Anxiety disorders can result from a variety of factors, such as feeling physically inferior, being shunned by a group, worrying about saying the wrong thing, or not fitting in or not being cool.
Depression. Adults may perceive signs of depression and anxiety as just moodiness, while some youngsters experience both at the same time. Teens also struggle to articulate their feelings or are unable to express themselves completely, thus they are unaware that they are in a depressive mood.
High expectations. Adolescents are under immense pressure to perform well in school and to excel at everything, which can lead to negative emotions like anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. Their daily tasks may be hampered by these feelings, which may also be harmful to their general and mental health.
Substance misuse. Adolescents tend to try anything – – from various fashion trends to smoking, drinking alcohol, and regrettably, using illicit substances. Unfortunately, some teenagers develop an addiction to them, which heightens their anxiety levels. In particular, alcohol alters the brain’s serotonin and other neurotransmitter levels, which exacerbates anxiety. Some teens use drugs and alcohol as a form of self-medication for painful or challenging situations.
Family issues. Anxiety disorders are more likely to develop in teenagers who are caught up in domestic disputes, live in a volatile environment, or deal with stressful life events unlike others.
What psychological signs of anxiety could teenagers display?
- Avoiding social events, avoiding challenging situations, and being very shy while making new friends.
- Demand reassurance from those in their immediate social circle.
- Minds are always racing, and always whining that they are unable to think clearly.
- Sensitive and self-conscious.
- Tend to be quite pessimistic and always considers the worst-case scenario.
- Difficulty to focus.
- Easily irritated with unexplainable outbursts.
Adolescent anxiety can also present with physical symptoms:
- Having insomnia or having trouble falling asleep. It may be helpful to recognize that adolescents with insomnia may be at a higher risk for suicidal thoughts. address your adolescent’s crisis in a compassionate and effective manner.
- Nausea, stomach aches, and other digestive problems.
- Sweating, chest aches, and accelerated heartbeat.
- Headaches.
As a parent, how can you assist your child in managing their anxiety?
Your child’s capacity for coping will be significantly influenced by how you respond to their feelings and attitudes. Regardless of whether your teen is dealing with a mental health condition or a more typical problem, acknowledge them, listen to what they have to say, and reassure them that you will not judge their situation.
Here are some other strategies for responding to and supporting your child’s anxiety:
- Be sympathetic and understanding. Even if they’re being challenging, let them know that you are their best friend in life and that you love them unconditionally. When speaking with them, refrain from using derogatory language and try to see things from their perspective.
- Motivate them to be active. Urge them to schedule time for exercise or any other physical activity that piques their interest. Being active elevates mood, whether riding a bike, dancing, or playing sports with friends.
- Be a positive role model. As a parent, you are the first person your child looks up to. Show them how to take care of themselves by eating healthy, getting adequate sleep, setting time for exercise, speaking kind words and practicing mindfulness, to name a few.
- Develop your teen’s sense of self-worth. Remind them frequently of their strengths and areas of expertise. Encourage them to accept their imperfections and help them recognize their shortcomings. Teach them to be humble while highlighting their uniqueness.
Being present with your child is crucial for their overall development. It creates memorable and positive experiences that enhance their optimism, compassion, and gratitude. Additionally, spending quality time together fosters better communication, making it easier for your child to open up to you. Remember, strong relationships between parents and teens benefit their mental health.
Finally, let them know that puberty is a time of many emotions, increased sentiments, anxiety, and other life uncertainties. Do not be afraid to get expert help if your teen is exhibiting symptoms of anxiousness.
If you believe your child is struggling and showing signs of depression, it’s crucial to seek help immediately. Contact a trusted licensed psychiatrist for guidance. Arbor Wellness offers a team of reliable mental health professionals who can help.
Sources:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/anxiety-disorders/anxiety-and-stress-in-teens
https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/anxiety/anxiety-in-children-and-teens
https://www.aacap.org/aacap/Families_and_Youth/Resource_Centers/Anxiety_Disorder_Resource_Center/Your_Adolescent_Anxiety_and_Avoidant_Disorders.aspx
https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2019/02/20/most-u-s-teens-see-anxiety-and-depression-as-a-major-problem-among-their-peers/
https://paradigmtreatment.com/mental-health-treatment-for-teens/anxiety-treatment-for-teens/causes-of-anxiety-in-teens/
https://www.mhanational.org/depression-teens-0
https://parents.au.reachout.com/mental-health-and-wellbeing/anxiety/anxiety-in-teenagers
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/suicide.html
