Anxiety in Teens: How to Help
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in the United States, affecting around 25% of teenagers. That statistic may seem daunting, but it’s important to remember that anxiety is treatable. If your teenager is struggling with anxiety, there are things you can do to help.
Here Are A Few Tips To Help Them
Communicate Openly And Often
The first step is to create an open line of communication with your teen. Let them know that you’re there for them and that you’re willing to talk about whatever is on their mind. It’s also important to encourage them to express their feelings in healthy ways; journaling, drawing, or even just talking to a trusted friend can be helpful outlets for anxiety.
Teach Coping Mechanisms
There are many coping mechanisms that can help ease anxiety. Some helpful techniques include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization exercises. These exercises can be done anywhere, at any time, and they don’t require any special equipment. You can find more information on these techniques online or from a mental health professional.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Physical activity releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Help your teen find an activity they enjoy—whether it’s running, playing sports, or dancing—and encourage them to stick with it. A healthy diet is also important for managing anxiety; sugary foods can cause spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety Statistics
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, women are twice as likely as men to be affected by an anxiety disorder. That statistic holds true across all age groups. In fact, anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health problems faced by women in the United States.
Anxiety disorders don’t discriminate based on age, either. While it’s commonly thought that only adults can suffer from anxiety, that’s not the case. Children and teenagers can also be affected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 6.3% of children aged 3-17 have an anxiety disorder. Approximately 18% of the US population will suffer from an anxiety disorder in any given year. That’s over 40 million people! And unfortunately, only 36.9% of those people will receive treatment.
African Americans Are More Likely To Suffer From An Anxiety Disorder
Not only are anxiety disorders on the rise in general, but certain groups are disproportionately affected. African Americans, for example, are more likely than any other group to suffer from an anxiety disorder. In fact, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, African Americans are 20% more likely to suffer from an anxiety disorder than their Caucasian counterparts.
Anxiety Disorders Cost America Billions Of Dollars Each Year
The financial toll that anxiety disorders take on our country is staggering. According to the ADAA, anxiety disorders cost America $42 billion each year in direct medical expenses and indirect costs (like lost productivity at work). And that number is only expected to rise as more and more people suffer from these disorders.
Summing Up Statistics
These statistics make it clear: anxiety disorders are a very real problem in America that is only getting worse. If you or someone you know is struggling with an anxiety disorder, don’t wait to get help! Treatment is available and it can make a world of difference. Talk to your doctor or a mental health professional today to get started on the road to recovery.
Get Anxiety Treatment
If your teenager is struggling with anxiety, there are things you can do to help. Communication is key, so make sure you create an open line of communication with your teen. Through attending Anxiety Treatment, they will learn healthy coping mechanisms and healthy habits like exercise and eating right. With your support, they will be able to manage their anxiety and live happy, healthy life.
