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Teen anxiety is a natural part of life, and most of them experience it from time to time.




Teenage years are ones of high stress, difficult decisions, and soaring emotions. The life of a teenager seems oftentimes like a soap opera, with the extreme highs and lows, dramatic outbursts, and the unexplained "silent treatments". Anxiety can result from a broken nail, a lower grade on a test than anticipated, or other seemingly trivial issues. In a world of cell phones, palm pilots, portable television, and other high-powered technology, children learn from a very young age that faster is better. The culture in America promotes a feeling of always having to get ahead, and this reflects on teenagers especially, who are still impressionable children trying to be adults. They are looking to the media, as well as their surroundings, to find their identity and who and what they are expected to be.

Anxiety is a natural part of life, and most of us experience it from time to time. The word "anxiety" usually refers to worry, concern, stress, or nervousness. Anxiety can manifest itself in different ways. It depends on the person and what they are going through in their lives. A basic definition would be to say that anxiety is a painful or apprehensive uneasiness of mind. But prolonged anxiety is a completely different ballpark. It is an overwhelming feeling of dissatisfaction and restlessness, where nothing ever seems to be right.

For some teens, anxiety is a constant factor in their lives. When a person has an anxiety disorder, it interferes with their ability to function normally on a daily basis. Anxiety disorders can cause teens to suffer from intense, long-lasting fear or worry, in addition to other symptoms. There is no one cause for anxiety disorders. Several factors can play a role, including genetics, brain biochemistry, an overactive "fight or flight" response, life circumstances, and learned behavior.

Certain things that happen in a person's life can also set the stage for anxiety disorders. Early learning also plays a role. Growing up in a family where others are fearful or anxious can "teach" a child to view the world as a scary place. Likewise, if a child grows up in an environment that is actually scary or dangerous (if there is violence in the child's family or community, for example), the child may learn to be fearful or expect the worst.

If a teen has an anxiety disorder, it may be difficult for their friends or family to understand just how they feel. Sometimes people give unrealistic advice - like telling them to just stop worrying. Though they may have the best intentions, they may not understand that it's not that simple. As a teen, you may have to explain this to them.

Because others may not always understand, sometimes people are reluctant to let loved ones know what they are going through. Some people may be concerned that their fear or behavior may be seen as childish, silly, or weird. But communication is the key. Close friends and family can be part of the solution, and their care and support can be valuable. Let them know what they can do to help.



If you know someone who has an anxiety disorder, be a supportive friend. If your friend goes to a support group, you might offer to go to one of the meetings too. Tell your friend you're there to listen if he or she would like to talk.

Oftentimes, the battle seems endless. But it is possible for a teen to combat anxiety. There are a variety of methods, such as:

  • Therapy
  • A healthy parental relationship
  • Hotlines
  • Medication
  • Understanding, but above all…
  • Support

The key to success in all relationships seems to be the same. Listen. Teenagers don’t want to talk about their problems to a parent who lectures them and criticizes every move. Teens need someone who they can vent their frustrations to and release that inner tension which is ever-present in any teenager, but much more so in an anxiety sufferer. Teenagers need to know that whatever they say will be accepted. They need to know that they can trust you, and that they are loved and cared for.

Find activities to help get rid of the restlessness, and don’t discourage a teenager from becoming independent and finding his or her own outlets. You also need to pay close attention to the warning signs, and if your teen is suffering, call your family doctor or local mental health professional for help, because no one can do it alone.

Flexibility and a supportive environment are essential for a teen with anxiety to achieve success. Parents need to be there for their teen, offering them help, whether it is medical or support. Anxiety is treatable, and with the proper tools, can be overcome. The Anxiety Workbook for Teens (Instant Help Homework), written by an experienced therapist, gives teens a collection of tools to control their anxiety and face their day to day challenges. This self-help workbook is sure to give anxious teens more insight into their problems as well as practical ways to overcome them.


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