Anxiety disorders often begin in the teen years as schoolwork becomes more difficult, responsibilities increase, and the pressure to fit in with peers intensifies. While many teens are able to deal with these multiple stressors, others will develop an inordinate amount of uncontrollable anxiety. For some teens, anxiety disorders appear without obvious stressors. Parents should be alert to the symptoms of teen anxiety so that professional help can be sought.
Fast Heartbeat
Anxiety produces many physical symptoms, a fast heartbeat being one of the most common. Often, the adolescent is aware of her heart beating forcefully and fast, which increases her mental anxiety.
Rapid Breathing
The adolescent with anxiety often exhibits rapid breathing that is apparent to others. This type of breathing is usually shallow, but can become deep and gasping if the anxiety is severe. The teen may complain that he feels he is smothering. Teens who are attempting to hide feelings of anxiety may loudly, deeply exhale.
Fullness in Throat
The teen experiencing anxiety may complain of a feeling of fullness in the chest or throat, relates the Palo Alto Medical Foundation. In severe anxiety, this may manifest as a choking sensation.
Trembling Hands
Most people recognize trembling hands as a sign of anxiety. This may also affect the legs. In severe anxiety, the teen may shake all over or have muscular twitches.
Lightheadedness
A teenage anxiety sufferer occasionally complains of lightheadedness. He may grab for something sturdy to hold on to, or avoid standing up until the sensation passes. He may feel as though he is about to pass out and appear quiet and pale.
Muscular Tension
The feeling of anxiety often causes muscular tension, especially throughout the shoulders, neck and back. An adolescent experiencing recurrent anxiety may describe having muscle aches or soreness that is unrelated to physical activities.
Sweating
Anxiety causes some teens to perspire, regardless of ambient temperature. If the anxiety is relative to a particular event, such as taking a test or giving a speech, the hands may become cold and clammy.
Excessive Tiredness
"Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing" explains that excessive tiredness may indicate long-standing anxiety. The adolescent may become easily fatigued, but have difficulty sleeping at night due to an inability to relax.
Upset Stomach
A teen who is unaware she has an anxiety disorder may instead notice that she often has an upset stomach. Often, this is recurrent and may have developed during the elementary-school years. A feeling of nausea may limit the types of foods she eats. A teen who cannot eat breakfast or lunch during the school week, but does eat dinner, should be examined for possible anxiety.
References
- "Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing: Concepts of Care in Evidence-Based Practice;" Mary C. Townsend, M.N., A.P.R.N.; 2006
- Palo Alto Medical Foundation: Teens and Anxiety
- The Nemours Foundation: TeensHealth: Anxiety Disorders
