Anxiety is a normal part of growing up and life in general. For instance, it's normal to feel a little anxious before a big test or shy around people you don't know. But, according to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, people with anxiety disorders can be so nervous, afraid and shy that they can't do normal activities, such as hanging out with family and friends. Anxiety disorders often go hand-in-hand with depression, eating disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, substance abuse, violence and other mental and physical health problems.
Expecting the Worse
A teen who has General Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, constantly worries and expects the worse even when there is no logical reason. To a teen with GAD, every normal situation can be a cause for worry and pose eminent doom. A teen can have a mild case of GAD and still be able to function normally, but those with severe GAD won't even go outside because they're afraid of what might happen if they do.
Extreme Shyness
Symptoms of extreme shyness, or social anxiety disorder, typically become noticeable at around age 13, says ADAA. The average adult who seeks treatment for this disorder has suffered from it for at least 10 years before going to a mental health professional. An extremely shy person may realize that she has a problem but feels like she can't do anything about it. If left untreated, social anxiety disorder can make it impossible for a teen to make friends, have fun or even graduate from school.
Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior
A teen with obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, constantly and irrationally worries about a potential threat, for instance germs, to the point that this threat is virtually all he thinks about. This is obsessive thinking. A person with OCD also constantly and uncontrollably engages in certain behaviors as a way to prevent the potential threat he worries about. For instance, she might not be able to stop washing her hands every five minutes. This is compulsive behavior. A person can have one, a few or several obsessions and compulsions.
Panic Attacks
When a teen is having a panic attack, which is also called an anxiety attack, he might feel like something terrible is about to happen. He might feel the urge to escape; feel like he's going crazy or dying; or feel tingly, chilly or extremely hot. During a panic attack, a teen's heart could race and he could sweat, tremble and have trouble catching his breath. He might be nauseous, dizzy, lightheaded, feel like he's choking and have chest pains. Because panic attack symptoms mimic other illnesses, teens who suffer with them may make frequent trips to the emergency room. However, panic attacks and other anxiety disorders can be effectively treated with help from mental health professionals, says ADAA.
