Anxiety in teens is rising: How do we help?
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to sudden changes in the social lives and daily routines of teens. With social distancing being enforced and important school events such as prom and graduations being canceled, it’s natural for teens to feel devastated, anxious and disconnected. Nearly one in three teens between ages 13 and 18 will experience an anxiety disorder according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Now more than ever, it’s crucial we encourage our teens to prioritize their mental wellness. Below, we break down steps you can take to help your children maintain positive mental health.
Know the signs of anxiety.
It’s common for teens to feel as if they can’t effectively communicate what they’re experiencing, so these emotions manifest themselves into habits that could show anxiety. For instance, some adolescents feel the need to worry endlessly about routine parts of his or her day. Others also show changes in behavior such as increased irritability. Some may develop negative behaviors such as insomnia, school avoidance or substance abuse. Work with your child to establish healthy coping skills that will ease the stress of the daily struggles he or she faces.
Be mindful of the pressures put on your …