When Worry Takes Over: Understanding and Treating Anxiety in Teens

Teen years are already a rollercoaster of emotions, rapid changes, and figuring out who you are. When anxiety enters the picture, it can be debilitating for teens and worrying for parents. Understanding its causes, identifying symptoms, and finding the right support are crucial to helping your teen regain control and thrive.

Anxiety in Teenagers: What Does it Look Like?

Anxiety isn’t just feeling “stressed.” It can manifest in various ways:

• Physical Symptoms: Racing heart, shortness of breath, stomachaches, headaches, fatigue, sleep issues, even when there’s no clear physical cause.
• Emotional Outbursts: Irritability, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, tearfulness over seemingly minor things, feelings of overwhelm or dread.
• Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from friends, avoiding school or activities they once enjoyed, increased procrastination, clinging to parents.
• Perfectionism and Overthinking: Intense fear of failure, excessive worrying about the future, negative self-talk, social anxiety (fear of judgment).

Why Teens? What Causes Anxiety to Surge?

• Brain Development: The teen brain undergoes major changes, with the emotional centers maturing faster than the rational decision-making parts. This can make them more prone to emotional volatility.
• Hormonal Shifts: Puberty unleashes a flood of hormones that impact mood, making teens more susceptible to stress & anxiety.
• Academics & Social Pressures: Tests, college applications, social comparison online, and real-life friend drama can contribute to chronic stress.
• Environmental Factors: Family conflict, bullying, traumatic events, or even an overly demanding schedule can all contribute to anxiety.
• Predisposition: Some teens have a family history of anxiety disorders or personality traits (perfectionism) that make them more vulnerable.

Treatment Options: Helping Your Teen Find Relief

• Therapy: The Cornerstone

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Teaches teens to identify and reframe negative thought patterns, learn coping skills, and face fears gradually.
  • Family Therapy: Can be vital to address family dynamics that might be contributing to anxiety and fostering better communication.

• Medication: When Therapy Isn’t Enough In some cases, medication (often alongside therapy) can reduce severe anxiety symptoms, giving teens the space to work on long-term coping skills.

• Lifestyle Changes:

  • Sleep Hygiene: Regular sleep patterns are crucial for mental health.
  • Healthy Diet & Exercise: Nourishing the body supports mental well-being.
  • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, meditation can help teens calm both physical and racing-thought anxiety.

Family Restoration Counseling Services: Your Partners in Helping Your Teen Cope

We understand the unique challenges of teen anxiety and its impact on the whole family. We offer:

• Compassionate, Teen-Focused Therapists: Trained in anxiety disorders, building trust, and using age-appropriate therapeutic tools.
• Individual & Family Therapy: We tailor the approach to your teen’s needs and family dynamics for lasting change.
• Parent Support: We guide parents in supporting their teen without enabling anxiety and offer resources to create a calm home environment.

Don’t let anxiety hold your teen back. If you’re seeing the signs, get help early. Contact Family Restoration Counseling Services to schedule a consultation and discuss the best path forward for your teen.