13 November 2014
 Categories: , Articles

According to an extensive study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health, around eight percent of teens between the ages of 13 and 18 suffered from a severe anxiety disorder. This might not sound like a huge number, but this statistic means that thousands of teenagers are suffering with the fear, stress and depression associated with many anxiety disorders. If you're concerned your teen is suffering with severe anxiety, here are a few ways you can help:

What Are the Symptoms of Anxiety in Teens?

It's not uncommon for your teenager to stress about a huge test or worry if their crush will notice a pimple. However, according to Worry Wise Kids, it isn't normal for these everyday fears and anxieties to severely impact every aspect of your teen's life, whether it's their performance in school or relationships with their friends and peers.

An anxiety disorder can manifest over months or years, or your once happy teenager might suddenly appear sullen and withdrawn. If you're concerned your teen is suffering from an anxiety disorder, here are a few symptoms to watch for:

• Upset stomach, nausea and trouble eating

• Trouble concentrating and a drastic change in school performance

• Giving up on activities they used to love or ending long and meaningful relationships and friendships

• Trouble sleeping or a sudden change in their diet

• Trouble swallowing or a feeling there is something caught in their throat

• Headaches, rapid heartbeat, sweaty palms and dizziness

• Sore muscles

• A sudden need to always be around their parents or a fear of being away from home

If you notice your once-happy teenager has suddenly become anxious and is exhibiting any combination of these symptoms, they might be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

What Can I Do?

As a parent, you might feel hopeless in the face of your teen's anxiety, but there are ways you can help them cope. In addition to seeking professional help, here are a few ways you can help handle your teenager's anxiety at home:

• Change Your Attitude Toward Anxiety – Adulthood is fraught with several potential sources of anxiety, and you're able to deal with them. However, before you assume your teenager needs to simply "toughen up" or "relax," realize that anxiety is a serious medical condition. The first step you need to do is accept your teenager has anxiety.

• Make Relaxation a Priority – Instead of allowing your teenager's anxiety to rule every minute of their day, insist they spend at least a few minutes or hours focusing on relaxation. Let your teenager know that it's okay to let go of their anxiety and enjoy a quiet moment, movie with a friend or a long talk with you.

• Rethink Bedtime – If your teen's anxiety is impacting their sleep schedule, it's time to bring back their bedtime. Your teen might resist at first, but insisting they stick to a regular bedtime routine can help ensure their anxiety doesn't keep them up all night.

If you've tried to help your teenager manage their anxiety and weren't successful, or their anxiety is becoming worse and you're concerned for their well-being, don't be afraid to immediately contact a professional. Your doctor or a psychologist can offer a variety of treatment options, including therapy and various anxiety medications.

Anxiety is a real issue facing thousands of teenagers across the United States, and if you suspect your child is suffering in silence, don't hesitate to intervene. Your typical teenager might resist and there could be several fights in your future, but it's worth all the yelling and slammed doors to help your teen overcome their anxiety.