According to the American Psychological Association, about 20.5% of the world’s youth experience anxiety symptoms. Unfortunately, many don’t receive the help they need despite the availability of effective treatments.
At Midwest Regional Health Services in Omaha, Nebraska, we recognize how tricky it can be for parents to identify when their child’s experiences go beyond everyday adolescent challenges. Here, our specialists share insights to help you better understand stress and anxiety in teens and spot the signs that they might need additional support.
Stress and anxiety are predictable and normal emotional responses to challenging situations. However, for about 8% of children and teenagers, these reactions become persistent and disruptive, turning into anxiety disorders.
Adolescence is incredibly complex — a time filled with shifting emotions, new experiences, and even changing brain structure. These factors make it harder to distinguish typical teen behavior from red flags. Also, every teen copes differently, so you’ll need to be diligently observant to spot the sometimes-subtle signs.
While anxiety is a natural defense mechanism, it becomes a problem when it dominates your child’s thoughts or disrupts their daily life. Watch for these common indicators of stress and anxiety in your teen:
These stress-related behaviors might look like overly dramatic behavior or sudden changes in their friend groups.
As a parent, you play a big role in guiding your child through the ups and downs of adolescence. If you notice signs of stress or anxiety in your teen, try these strategies to offer support:
Validate their feelings, even if they seem exaggerated. Helping them understand that their emotions are a normal part of adolescence helps build trust.
Encourage a healthy lifestyle by promoting balanced meals, regular physical activity, and consistent sleep cycles.
Spend time with your teen and talk about their day. Your presence and attention provide security and reassurance even if they’re reluctant to open up.
Normalize conversations about anxiety and mental health. Remind them that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
At Midwest Regional Health Services, our experienced team provides personalized care to help adolescents manage stress and anxiety.
If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, contact Midwest Regional Health Services today to book a consultation and start their road to recovery.
