It’s tough being a teenager – it always has been but, with social media being a mainstay in our lives, it’s getting even harder in this age. Yet some teenagers will have issues with anxiety and, as with us adults, it can become overwhelming and confusing for them.
Anxiety is a normal part of life, your teen might be getting nervous about a test, or dreading a particular activity, but it’s important to know the difference between what’s normal and what isn’t.
What is anxiety?
An anxiety disorder is when there’s an excessive amount of worry, fear, nervousness or dread, which happens too often, too strong, is out of proportion for the situation and affects their daily lives. It can come on suddenly or build gradually, and sometimes the cause of these feelings are unknown.
Your teen’s symptoms will determine what kind of anxiety disorder they have. Generalized anxiety, for example, is usually accompanied by physical symptoms such as headaches, chest pain, tight muscles, tiredness, or vomiting. With panic attacks, physical symptoms can be sudden and intense. Those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have compulsions that relieve their anxiety. Nightmares or flashbacks of a terrifying experience is associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you think your teen may have an anxiety disorder, talk to them. This is the best way for you to figure out if there is potentially a mental health issue they are dealing with. You may wish to do this by expressing concern about their changes in behavior, and asking if something is wrong. Remaining open will help your teen open up to you.
What treatment is available?
Once you’ve spoken to them, and if you think their anxiety is negatively affecting their daily lives, go to a medical professional to see what treatment options are available. They will evaluate and then let you know what the best next steps are for your teen.
The treatment options will vary, so what works for one teenager may not for another, even if they have the same condition. Your medical professional can give you more details on what you can explore.
Medication is one option, as is therapy for your child. This could include talking to someone about how they feel, and what might be causing their anxiety. There are also residential programs that might be helpful for some families. Have a look at igniteteentreatment.com to see what kinds of treatment are available to young people with anxiety, and what coping mechanisms they can use so they can fulfill their potential.
What else can I do?
You can still help your teen at home. Continue talking, and let your child know you’re there for them to open up to you when they need to speak to someone. There are other things you can do too, such as making sure your teen eats well, do some exercise and practices breathing techniques. All these things will help them with their anxiety issues.
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