The experience of anxiety can be very different from teen to teen because everyone deals with anxiety and stress in his or her own way. What may be an overwhelming level of anxiety for one teen may be a normal day for another. For some teens, anxiety can become unmanageable. When this occurs, you should seek the advice of a professional, as anxiety left untreated can have serious consequences.
Basics
Anxiety directed toward rational fears, doubts and worries is normal, especially if it lasts for short periods of time and does not disrupt the teenagers everyday life, reports HelpGuide.org. Teenagers who experience anxiety when they have to take the SATs or when they are waiting to hear back from a college are experiencing normal amounts of anxiety.
Teens' ability to deal with anxiety can vary greatly based on their individual characteristics. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) reports that for some teens, anxiety becomes a chronic problem and interferes with their ability to attend school and to perform up to their academic potential. According to the AACAP, anxiety symptoms tend to include excessive fears and worries, feelings of inner restlessness, and a tendency to be excessively wary and vigilant.
Considerations
Some anxiety is normal, but teenagers often experience more than can be considered healthy. According to Dr. Robert Leahy, writing in Psychology Today, the teenage population experiences levels of anxiety similar to the average levels of anxiety seen in 1950s psychiatric patients. Reasons for this increase are still in question, but Dr. Leahy has pointed out some possible theories.
One idea is that teenagers stay less connected to others, which contributes to anxiety, worry and feelings of uncertainty. Also, a modern teen's need to live a more affluent lifestyles creates unrealistic goals which in turn cause increases in anxiety. In addition, being constantly inundated with bad news and suffering, as we all are with the advent of the internet and 24-hour news cycle, maintains a teen's heightened anxiety level, states Dr. Leahy.
Consequences
Anxiety in adolescence can have negative consequences. Teens have a tendency to see things in stark contrast. If they are experiencing increasing levels of anxiety they may feel as though everything is falling apart. If this leads to significant and consistent bouts with anxiety, teens may engage in behaviors that are self-destructive or self-injurious. They might even, in some rare occasions, attempt suicide in an effort to regain control, according to the AACAP.
Parental Tips
Proper interventions for teens can help stop this cycle and avoid a lifetime of battles with anxiety. KidsHealth.org suggests that parents help their teenager get enough sleep, exercise, and consume a well-balanced diet. Hang out with your teens in relaxed situations they enjoy and develop a connection with them so they feel safe coming to you in a time of need. Help your teen learn different relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. Avoid becoming anxious around your teenagers and do not discuss your problems with them; their level of maturity means they can't help you, and your venting will only increase their anxiety.
Treatment
Therapy can be used as an option to overcome anxiety if your teen feels the need for therapy and is willing to participate. When looking for a therapist be sure they have had many successful years working with teenagers. Therapy will most likely focus on teaching your children to relieve their anxiety and ensuring they do not engage in high-risk behaviors.
