About one in four teens suffer at least one anxiety attack. Some experience these crippling attacks on a more frequent basis, such as weekly or daily. These feelings and behaviours can cause problems in daily life and, left untreated, only worsen. Over time, teen anxiety affects school, work, earning ability, and even relationships.
If anxiety is starting to affect your teen’s quality of life, it is time to reach out for professional help. Venture Academy provides help for struggling teens in Canada, including anxiety treatment. Call 866.762.2211 to learn how we can help today.
What Causes Teen Anxiety Symptoms?
For teenagers, there are a variety of potential causes of anxiety. These can include academic pressures, bullying, difficulty fitting in socially, family conflict, and even hormonal shifts as teens enter puberty. In some cases, the source of anxiety may be unclear or unknown. It is important for parents to be aware that these issues can trigger anxiety in their teens and provide support and guidance when needed.
Two of the most common teen anxiety diagnoses are generalised anxiety disorder and social anxiety. Some common signs of teenage anxiety include:
- Irritability or mood swings
- Avoidance of social situations or activities they used to enjoy
- Excessive worrying or rumination about events and decisions
- Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches with no medical cause
- Insomnia or over-sleeping
- Problems focusing due to worry or fearfulness
- Negative self-talk
It is important to note that not all teenagers who experience anxiety need professional help; many can benefit from simple lifestyle changes like increased exercise, a regular sleep schedule, healthy eating habits, and limiting their use of technology and social media. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen over time, it may be beneficial for teens to seek counselling with a mental health professional for further support and guidance. With the right tools and resources, teenage anxiety can be managed in order to lead a productive and fulfilling life.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is the most frequent diagnosis of teen anxiety. Some children start experiencing these problems as early as age six. But most form GAD at about age 11.
GAD involves day-to-day worry that lasts for long periods of time. Teens with this condition suffer emotional stress and a range of other symptoms common to GAD. Low self-esteem and worry are two of the biggest signs of the disorder.
For example, symptoms of GAD include:
- Uncontrolled feelings of stress and worry
- Edginess and restlessness
- Sleep problems
- Concentration problems
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Fatigue
GAD responds very well to treatment, so it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety typically starts in the teen years, with most seeing their first anxiety attack symptoms from social anxiety at about 13 years of age. This social phobia occurs with intense fear and worry in social settings, around family, or even at school. This limits your teen’s activities and life experiences. Concern over judgment by others motivates much of this anxiety, so your teen avoids being around peers or adults.
Symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Blushing
- Shaking
- Fear of talking in front of others
Social anxiety can be difficult to overcome alone, but help is available.
Recovering from Teen Anxiety Attack Symptoms
When it comes to battling teen anxiety attack symptoms, having a plan of action can be incredibly helpful. While everyone’s needs will differ, here are some steps and tips for recovering from an anxiety attack:
- Take deep breaths
- Reach out to someone you trust
- Practise positive self-talk
- Take a break from the situation
- Engage in physical activity
- Practise self-care
The most important thing to remember is that everyone experiences anxiety differently, so the above methods might not work for everyone. Seek professional help if needed, and try to find what works best for you in managing your anxiety attack symptoms. With patience, understanding, and self-care, your teen can learn to manage their anxiety attacks more effectively.
Getting Professional Help for Teen Anxiety Symptoms
Teen anxiety can be a difficult problem to tackle alone, but getting help from an experienced mental health professional can make all the difference. Research has shown that psychological support for teens with anxiety can lead to greater self-awareness and improved coping skills, which, in turn, reduces symptoms of anxiety. With help, teens can learn how to identify triggers so they can manage their responses more effectively. Additionally, seeking professional treatment ensures teens are receiving evidence-based treatments that have been proven effective in addressing anxiety.
Professional support also helps teens address underlying issues that may contribute to increased feelings of anxiousness. These could include family dynamics or school stressors impacting teens’ mental health. A qualified therapist provides teens with a comfortable and secure environment where they can explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviours without judgement.
By providing education, skill-building, and coping techniques, professional help for teen anxiety can lead to better concentration, improved academic performance, and stronger interpersonal relationships. Teens who successfully manage their anxiety often develop deeper self-understanding, which helps them make healthier decisions in the future. As a result of successful treatment, teens are empowered to take control of their mental health so they can achieve greater emotional well-being.
Find Help for Teen Anxiety at Venture Academy
When it comes to dealing with anxiety, teens don’t have to face it alone. Mental health professionals and counsellors can provide invaluable support and guidance. Teens should know that many resources are available to help them manage their anxiety and live happier lives. Venture Academy provides effective anxiety treatment for teens in Canada. Call 866.762.2211 or fill out our online contact form for more information.
