Understanding Anxiety in Teens: Symptoms & Signs

According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S. Anxiety disorders often develop in adolescence or early adulthood.

Features

• Anxiety disorders are characterized by irrational, sometimes persistent, fear and worry that are unnecessary or out of proportion to everyday life events.

Identification

• Anxiety disorder symptoms in adolescents include fear of social situations, obsessive thoughts, irrational fears, excessive worrying, panic attacks, restlessness, distractibility and trouble sleeping.

Types

• Several types of anxiety disorders in adolescents can occur, including social anxiety, phobia, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.

Considerations

• Teens who are feeling stressed, anxious, worried or fearful should talk with a school counselor or therapist to glean tips for managing stress and also get checked for an anxiety disorder.

Misconceptions

• Teens are known for being moody and cynical at times, but it is important to watch for signs of serious underlying problems that are persistent and may become life-threatening. Anxiety disorders are often accompanied by depression and should be treated with counseling and sometimes medication.