Adolescent Stress and Anxiety: What Parents Need To Know

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.

Adolescents, stress, and anxiety

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.

Recognizing when anxiety is a problem

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:

• Restlessness or being on edge 
• Frequent headaches or muscle tension 
• Trouble concentrating or staying focused 
• Fatigue that doesn’t match their activity level 
• Irregular sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping 
• Nausea or a nervous stomach 
• Unpredictable mood swings 
• Avoiding social settings or activities they used to enjoy 
• Falling grades or disinterest in school, hobbies, or sports 

These stress-related behaviors might look like overly dramatic behavior or sudden changes in their friend groups.

How parents can help

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:

1. Acknowledge their emotions 

Validate their feelings, even if they seem exaggerated. Helping them understand that their emotions are a normal part of adolescence helps build trust. 

2. Prioritize wellness through routine 

Encourage a healthy lifestyle by promoting balanced meals, regular physical activity, and consistent sleep cycles. 

3. Stay connected 

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. 

4. Encourage open communication 

Normalize conversations about anxiety and mental health. Remind them that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

Support tailored for your family

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.