How to Recognize Teen Anxiety & The Causes Of It
You might not often think about teenagers struggling with anxiety. But it’s a more prominent problem than many people realize.
Maybe you fondly look back on your teenage years and consider it the best time of your life. But we’re living in a fast-paced world, and chances are, you were worried about more back then than you remember.
Being able to recognize anxiety in your teen can help you put a stop to it before it spirals out of control. Talking to your teenager about it will also help them prioritize their mental health. That’s a necessary skill they can carry with them into adulthood.
So, how can you recognize teen anxiety? Let’s take a closer look at some of the signs and symptoms and possible causes.
Why Are Teens Anxious?
As an adult, you might see your teen as not having a care in the world. They have their whole life ahead of them to worry about responsibilities and the regular ups and downs of living. But, they might be dealing with more than you think right now.
Teens are going through a formative stage of life. They’re dealing with changes to their bodies and thought processes. Hormonal shifts can make mood regulation difficult, and they might not be able to fully process or understand some of their own emotions.
Teenage anxiety can also be caused by societal issues. Your teen might be worried about fitting in or getting along with certain friend groups. They might be stressed over a relationship. They also have to think about the future and what they want to do. There is often a lot of pressure on teenage shoulders, and adults don’t always see it.
Signs of Anxiety in Teenagers
Pay attention to behavioral changes in your teen. They might seem more worried or nervous than usual if they’re struggling with anxiety. Other symptoms include:
Changes in sleeping or eating habits
Irritability
Fatigue
Restlessness
Difficulty concentrating
You might also notice some physical symptoms associated with anxiety, including headaches, muscle pain, and stomachaches. If your teen is experiencing more than one of these issues regularly, it’s important to take it seriously and step in as soon as possible.
Talk to Your Teen
One of the best things you can do if you notice your teen struggling with anxiety is to initiate a conversation.
Obviously, you can’t force your teen to open up. But, letting them know that you’ve seen some changes and you want to make sure they’re okay will help them understand two things. First, it will let them know that you care and want to help them. Second, it will give them the reassurance that they’re in a safe space to open up.
Talking to your teenager about anxiety shouldn’t be a one-time event. It’s something that needs to be ongoing, so you can develop a rapport that makes them feel comfortable with their vulnerability.
Reach Out for Help
Don’t feel like you have to help your teen navigate anxiety on your own. Maybe neither of you can pin down what’s actually causing their anxiety. Doing so is an important step in the healing process. So, consider reaching out to a mental health professional.
Therapy is a great way for your teen to better understand what they’re feeling — and why.
When your teen is able to understand the root of their anxiety, they can take active steps toward fighting back against it. When they know they have a professional in their corner to help, it can empower them to silence negative thoughts and take control of their anxiety.
It’s not easy to see a young person struggling with anxiety, but it doesn’t have to be something they deal with forever. Feel free to contact us to set up an appointment for teen counseling, and help them take charge of their mental wellness.
